Strategically positioned capping solutions for immediate hydrocarbon containment
In the rare event of a subsea well control incident, time is critical. OSRL's capping stack systems provide an immediate, temporary intervention that enables the safe shutdown of uncontrolled hydrocarbon releases while a permanent solution, typically a relief well, is planned.
Through our enhanced membership coverage option of the Subsea Well Response service, you gain guaranteed access to four capping stacks strategically located to support swift mobilisation wherever an incident occurs.
These stacks, engineered by industry leaders Trendsetter Engineering, are designed to safely contain and cap up to 100,000 barrels of oil per day at depths of up to 3,800 metres (12,500 feet). They are suitable for both exploration and production wells and include features such as chemical injection points for direct dispersant delivery, minimising hydrate formation, and maintaining flow assurance.
Two high-pressure (15k psi) systems are stored in Norway and Brazil, and two medium-pressure (10k psi) systems in Singapore and South Africa. Each stack is modular and configurable for a wide range of subsea interface requirements and can be transported by air, land, or sea.
As custodians, OSRL maintains and stores this equipment to the highest industry standards, providing readiness and assurance that it can be deployed safely and efficiently when needed. In the event of an incident, members can mobilise two of the four systems, providing built-in redundancy and supporting continuity of service across the membership base.
Interactive 3D equipment models
Select the equipment below to find out more and explore the interactive 3D models of its set-up.
Capping Stack Installation
A construction supply vessel will deploy the capped stack above the incident well and lower it onto the incident well.
Capping Stack 15 kpsi
Designed for subsea use to a maximum of 12,500 ft/3,800m water depth. The two 15 kpsi, 18-3/4 inch capping stacks are stored fully assembled in Brazil and Norway.
Capping Stack 10 kpsi
Designed for subsea use to a maximum of 12,500 ft./3,800 m water depth. The two 10 kpsi, 7-1/16 inch capping stacks are stored fully assembled in Singapore and South Africa.
Air-Freightable Capping Stack
SWIS capping stacks in Norway and Singapore can be air-freighted fully assembled on an AN-124, ensuring pressure integrity and reducing mobilisation time and assembly risks.
Capping Inclination Tool
The Inclination Tool is a hydraulically operated tool installed on the capping stack. It can be adjusted to match the inclination angle of the incident BOP/ wellhead.
Key facts
- Four capping systems, including two 18 3⁄4" 15k stacks and two 7 1⁄16" 10k stacks (with ancillary equipment)
- Transportable by sea and/or air
- Available for a variety of international metocean conditions
- Designed for subsea use up to 3800 metre water depth
- Stored in four strategic regional locations around the world
- Manufactured by Trendsetter Engineering
Capping FAQs
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A capping stack is a subsea device deployed in the event of a well control incident to temporarily stop the uncontrolled release of hydrocarbons. It is used while a permanent solution, such as a relief well, is implemented.
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OSRL members who have the added enhanced membership coverage option of the subsea capping (and OIE) and containment service have access to all four OSRL-maintained capping stacks and are entitled to mobilise up to two systems per incident, ensuring redundancy and availability across the membership base.
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15k psi stacks are stored in Brazil and Norway. 10k psi stacks are stored in Singapore and South Africa. These strategic locations support global rapid deployment.
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Yes. The systems are packaged for rapid transport by land, sea, or air, and OSRL manages 24/7 readiness, including logistics, maintenance, and mobilisation coordination.
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The systems are designed to support a wide range of subsea scenarios and can be configured for exploration and production wells. They connect to various interfaces, including BOPs, flex joints, and wellheads.
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