What is a blow out and what is a blow out preventer (BOP)?

A sudden, violent escape of gas and oil (and sometimes water) from a drilling well when high pressure gas is encountered and efforts to prevent or to control the escape has not been successful.

A Blow Out Preventer (BOP) is a device attached immediately above the casing to control the pressure and prevent escape of fluids from the annular space between the drill pipe and casing or shut off the hole if no drill pipe is in the hole, should a kick or blowout occur. These devices are pressure tested between 3,500 to 5,000 pounds per square inch (PSI) when installed and every two weeks afterwards. They also have remote control valves to operate from a safe distance if needed.

Show All Answers

1. Can someone else own the minerals underneath my property? How can I tell if I own my minerals?
2. Does the City offer assistance or advice to property owners regarding mineral leases?
3. How can I find out if a natural gas well permit has been obtained near my property?
4. How can I register a complaint or contact an inspector?
5. How is gas well drilling and production regulated in Texas?
6. What role does the City of Denton have in gas well permitting and regulation?
7. What are the stormwater requirements for gas wells?
8. How many wells are located in Denton?
9. How long is the gas well active or producing?
10. What is the oil and gas drilling disclaimer?
11. What can I expect when a company is going perform activities in my area?
12. What can I expect when a company is going to drill in my area?
13. What emergency plans are in place in case of an accident?
14. What happens to the well after production?
15. What is a blow out and what is a blow out preventer (BOP)?
16. What is a mineral lease?
17. How is natural gas transported?
18. What is fracturing or completing with hydraulic horsepower?
19. What is seismic exploration, and what will I notice when it is performed?
20. What is the Barnett Shale?