NOV and Odfjell Successfully Deploy Rapid Emergency Disconnect System, Advancing Offshore Drilling Safety

The collaboration began in July 2025 with a shared objective: reduce emergency disconnect sequence (EDS) times to enable safer drilling operations in shallow-water environments for dynamically positioned vessels. Working together, the two companies developed a solution that exceeded the original performance target.

At the start of the project, NOV's 22-in. Low Force Shear (LFS) operators completed shear-close functions in approximately 22 seconds, meeting API requirements but presenting challenges for certain offshore applications. In less than a year, our engineering team designed and delivered the Rapid EDS solution to address those challenges.

The first successful rig test took place on June 18, 2026. The system reduced shear-close times to less than three seconds while maintaining required shear pressure and without increasing hydraulic volume requirements. Modifications to the riser connector unlock circuitry also reduced connector release times to less than three seconds.

Together, these improvements enable an emergency disconnect sequence in less than six seconds under subsea field conditions, surpassing the original project goal of 10 to 12 seconds.

The Rapid EDS system also strengthens well control during emergency situations. Faster shearing of drillpipe helps minimize flow and erosion, reducing risk during critical operations and improving overall safety.

"This project demonstrates what is possible when operational experience and engineering expertise come together to solve complex challenges," said Chris Robertson, BOP Controls Engineer. "By working closely with Odfjell, we developed a solution that delivers faster emergency response while improving the safety of offshore drilling operations."

The successful deployment of Rapid EDS demonstrates how focused engineering and operational collaboration can deliver faster emergency response and improve safety in offshore drilling operations.