Weatherford receives world’s first API 16 RCD certification

Weatherford receives world’s first API 16 RCD certification

Weatherford International Ltd. today announced that it has received the industry’s first API 16RCD certification for its rotating control devices (RCDs). The audit was successfully completed to an exceptional standard, with zero non-conformances, zero findings, and zero OFIs. Weatherford is the only manufacturer to be granted this license.

Weatherford completed design validation testing in 2009, and subsequently submitted the request to be audited for certification to API. The Model 7875 RCD is the first to have certification applied, and is currently being deployed for deepwater managed pressure drilling (MPD) applications.

The company’s RCDs are manufactured at the Fort Smith facility, which also received ISO 9001:2008 re-certification in March.

“This was a long journey, but the fact that we remained focused on the goal says a lot about our commitment to continue leading the progression of RCD technology and to be on the cutting edge,” commented Ken Downs, Quality Manager at the Fort Smith facility.

The Model 7875 RCD is part of Weatherford’s SeaShield marine series of RCDs, which are purposebuilt for applications in the offshore environment. The 7875 RCD has the pedigree of the company’s existing RCD systems, but uses the latest technological advances with a thoughtful approach to move to the offshore arena.

Weatherford is a Swiss-based, multi-national oilfield service company. It is one of the largest global providers of innovative mechanical solutions, technology and services for the drilling and production sectors of the oil and gas industry. Weatherford operates in over 100 countries and employs over 52,000 people worldwide.