CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of India Provisional Application No. 202241061855, filed October 31 , 2022, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and/or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] Natural resources, such as oil and gas, are used as fuel to power vehicles, heat homes, and generate electricity, in addition to various other uses. Once a desired resource is discovered below a surface of the earth, drilling systems are often employed to carry out drilling operations to access the desired resource. The drilling systems generally include a wellhead assembly mounted above a wellbore of a well. Additionally, at various times, a pressure control equipment (PCE) stack may be mounted to the wellhead assembly to carry out intervention operations to inspect or to service the well. During the drilling operations and the intervention operations, a pressure control valve (e.g., a blowout preventer [BOP]) is mounted above the wellhead assembly to protect other well equipment from surges in pressure within the wellbore.

SUMMARY

[0004] A summary of certain embodiments disclosed herein is set forth below. It should be understood that these aspects are presented merely to provide the reader with a brief summary of these certain embodiments and that these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, this disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0005] In certain embodiments, an interlocking ram for a blowout preventer includes a ram body and a packer slot of the ram body, wherein the packer slot is configured to receive a packer assembly. The interlocking ram also includes a blade of the ram body, wherein the blade has tapered surfaces to guide a conduit toward a centerline of the ram body. The interlocking ram further includes a lip structure of the ram body, wherein the lip structure is positioned between the packer slot and the blade to provide separation of the packer assembly and the blade along a vertical axis.

[0006] In certain embodiments, a blowout preventer includes a first ram with a first ram body, a first packer assembly supported by the first ram body, a first blade formed in the first ram body, and a first pocket formed in the first ram body. The blowout preventer also includes a second ram with a second ram body, a second packer assembly supported by the second ram body, a second blade formed in the second ram body and configured to be positioned within the first pocket of the first ram body when the blowout preventer is in a closed configuration, and a second pocket formed in the second ram body and configured to receive the first blade of the first ram body when the blowout preventer is in the closed configuration. The first packer assembly is separated from the second blade and the second packer assembly is separated from the first blade when the blowout preventer is in the closed configuration.

[0007] In certain embodiments, a method of operating interlocking rams of a blowout preventer includes driving a first ram and a second ram toward one another to adjust the blowout preventer from an open configuration to a closed configuration. The method also includes inserting a first blade of the first ram into a second pocket of the second ram as the first ram and the second ram move toward one another to reach the closed configuration. The method further includes inserting a second blade of the second ram into a first pocket of the first ram as the first ram and the second ram move toward one another to reach the closed configuration. The method further includes isolating a first packer of the first ram from the second blade as the first ram and the second ram move toward one another to reach the closed configuration. The method further includes isolating a second packer of the second ram from the first blade as the first ram and the second ram move toward one another to reach the closed configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Various features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying figures in which like characters represent like parts throughout the figures, wherein:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system that includes a wellhead assembly and a blowout preventer (BOP), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a side view of a pressure control equipment (PCE) that may include the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional top view of the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded top view of a portion of a first ram that may be utilized in the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded top view of the first ram of FIG. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a perspective isometric view of the first ram of FIG. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a side view of the first ram of FIG. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [0016] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional rear view of the first ram of FIG. 4, taken within line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective exploded top view of a portion of a second ram that may be utilized in the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 10 is perspective exploded top view of the second ram of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded bottom view of the second ram of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 12 is a side view of the second ram of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional rear view of the second ram of FIG. 9, taken within line 13-13 of FIG. 12, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 14 is a perspective top view of the first ram of FIG. 4 and the second ram of FIG. 9 in an open configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 15 is a side view of the first ram of FIG. 4 and the second ram of FIG. 9 in an intermediate configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 16 is a side view of the first ram of FIG. 4 and the second ram of FIG. 9 in a closed configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of the first ram of FIG. 4 and the second ram of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [0026] FIG. 18 is a perspective top view of a ram that may be utilized in the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 19 is a perspective front view of a ram that may be utilized in the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 20 is a perspective top view of a ram that may be utilized in the BOP of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0029] FIG. 21 is a top view of the ram of FIG. 20, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0030] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. These described embodiments are only exemplary of the present disclosure. Additionally, in an effort to provide a concise description of these exemplary embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers’ specific goals, such as compliance with system -related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0031] The present embodiments are generally directed to interlocking rams for a blowout preventer (BOP). When installed within the BOP, the interlocking rams may be configured to adjust between an open configuration (e.g., retracted configuration) and a closed configuration (e.g., extended configuration). In the open configuration, the interlocking rams may enable a fluid flow through a central bore of the BOP. In the closed configuration, the interlocking rams may block the fluid flow through the central bore of the BOP. The interlocking rams may include features that enable the interlocking rams to effectively seal high pressure below the interlocking rams (e.g., during blowout conditions within a wellbore).

[0032] The interlocking rams may be used in a BOP that is employed during intervention operations. In particular, the interlocking rams may be used in a BOP of a pressure control equipment (PCE) stack that is coupled to and/or positioned vertically above a wellhead assembly during the intervention operations. Then, during the intervention operations, a wireline may extend through the central bore of the BOP to position a tool in a wellbore of the well.

[0033] To facilitate discussion, the disclosed embodiments are primarily described in the context of a pressure control equipment stack (PCE) that is used during the intervention operations. However, it should be appreciated that the interlocking rams may be adapted for use in other contexts and during other operations. For example, the interlocking rams may be used in a BOP that is employed during drilling operations. In particular, the interlocking rams may be used in a BOP of a BOP stack that is coupled to and/or positioned vertically above a wellhead assembly during drilling operations. Then, during the drilling operations, a drill string may be suspended from a rig through the BOP into a wellbore. A drilling fluid is delivered through the drill string and returned up through an annulus between the drill string and a casing that lines the wellbore.

[0034] In any case, in the event of a rapid invasion of formation fluid in the wellbore, commonly known as a “kick,” the BOP may be actuated to drive the interlocking rams toward one another to the closed configuration to seal the wellbore and to control fluid pressure in the wellbore, thereby protecting well equipment positioned above the BOP. In the present disclosure, a conduit may be any of a variety of tubular or cylindrical structures, such as a drill string, a wireline, a Streamline™, a slickline, a coiled tubing, or other spoolable rod.

[0035] With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a system 10. The system 10 may be configured to perform work on a well to facilitate access to various natural resources (e.g., hydrocarbons, such as oil and/or natural gas). The system 10 may be a land-based system (e.g., a surface system) or an offshore system (e.g., an offshore platform system).

[0036] As shown, a BOP 12 may be mounted to a wellhead assembly 14, which is coupled to a mineral deposit 16 via a wellbore 18. The wellhead assembly 14 may include or be coupled to any of a variety of other components. For example, during intervention operations, the wellhead assembly 14 may be coupled to a pressure control equipment (PCE) stack that includes the BOP 12. During drilling operations, the wellhead assembly 14 may be coupled to a BOP stack that includes the BOP 12. Downhole operations are carried out by a conduit 20 that extends through a central bore 22 of the BOP 12, through the wellhead assembly 14, and into the wellbore 18. As discussed in more detail herein, the BOP 12 may include interlocking rams that are configured to seal the central bore 22. To facilitate discussion, the BOP 12 and its components may be described with reference to a vertical axis or direction 30, an axial axis or direction 32, and/or a lateral axis or direction 34.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a side view of an embodiment of a PCE stack 38 that may include the BOP 12 of FIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the PCE stack 38 includes a stuffing box 40, a tool catcher 42, a lubricator section 44, a tool trap 46, a valve stack 48, and a connector 50 to couple the PCE stack 38 to the wellhead assembly or other structure. These components are annular structures stacked vertically with respect to one another (e.g., coaxial) to enable the conduit 20 to extend through the PCE stack 38 (e.g., from a first end to a second end of the PCE stack 38) into the wellhead assembly. As shown, the conduit 20 extends from the first end of the PCE stack 38 and over a sheave 56 to a winch 58, and rotation of the winch 58 (e.g., a drum or spool of the winch 58) raises and lowers the conduit 20 with a tool 60 through the PCE stack 38.

[0038] It should be appreciated that the PCE stack 38 may include various other components (e.g., cable tractoring wheels to pull the conduit 20 through the stuffing box 40, a pump-in sub to enable fluid injection). Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the PCE stack 38 may include the valve stack 48 mounted to the wellhead via the connector 50, but the PCE stack 38 may not include one or more of the stuffing box 40, tool catcher 42, lubricator section 44, or tool trap 46. Indeed, the PCE stack 38 may include the valve stack 48 alone or in combination with any of a variety of other components.

[0039] In the illustrated PCE stack 38, the stuffing box 40 is configured to seal against the conduit 20 (e.g., to seal an annular space about the conduit 20) to block a flow of fluid from the central bore vertically above the stuffing box 40. The tool catcher 42 is configured to engage or catch the tool 60 to block the tool 60 from being withdrawn vertically above the tool catcher 42 and/or to block the tool 60 from falling vertically into the wellbore. The lubricator section 44 may include one or more annular pipes joined to one another, and the lubricator section 44 may support or surround the tool 60 while it is withdrawn from the wellbore. The tool trap 46 is configured to block the tool 60 from falling vertically into the wellbore while the tool trap 46 is in a closed configuration.

[0040] The valve stack 48 may include one or more valves that are configured to seal the central bore 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve stack 48 includes two valves that are vertically stacked relative to one another. However, the valve stack 48 may include any suitable number of valves (e.g., 1 , 2, 3, 4, or more). As discussed in more detail below, at least one of the one or more valves may be the BOP 12 with interlocking rams. In operation, the interlocking rams move toward and away from one another to adjust the BOP 12 between an open configuration in which the interlocking rams do not seal the central bore and a closed configuration in which the interlocking rams seal the central bore (e.g., seal about the conduit 20 to seal the central bore). The various components of the PCE stack 38, including the interlocking rams of the BOP 12, may be adjusted via actuators (e.g., electric, hydraulic, pneumatic actuators).

[0041] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional top view of a portion of an embodiment of the BOP 12 that may be used in the system 10 of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the BOP 12 includes opposed interlocking rams 70 that are positioned such that the BOP 12 is in an open configuration 72. In the open configuration 72, the opposed interlocking rams 70 are withdrawn from the central bore 22, do not contact the conduit 20, and/or do not contact one another.

[0042] As shown, the BOP 12 includes a housing 74 surrounding the central bore 22. The housing 74 is generally rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, although the housing 74 may have any cross-sectional shape, including any polygonal shape and/or annular shape. The housing 74 defines a cavity that supports the opposed interlocking rams 70. Bonnet assemblies 76 are mounted on opposite sides of the housing 74 (e.g., via threaded fasteners). Each bonnet assembly 76 supports an actuator 78, which may include a piston 80 and a connecting rod 82. The actuators 78 may drive the opposed interlocking rams 70 toward and away from one another along the axial axis 32 to transition the BOP 12 between the open configuration 72 and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the opposed interlocking rams 70 are positioned within the central bore 22, contact the conduit 20 to seal the central bore 22, and/or contact one another to seal the central bore 22. As discussed in more detail herein, the interlocking rams 70 may include structural features that enable the interlocking rams 70 to engage one another, while also separating and/or protecting respective packer assemblies of the interlocking rams 70 from certain components to facilitate transitions between the open configuration 72 and the closed configuration, as well as to provide durability and/or other advantages.

[0043] FIGS. 4-8 illustrate an embodiment of a first ram 100 (e.g., first interlocking ram) of the opposed interlocking rams 70 of FIG. 3. In particular, FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded top view of a portion of the first ram 100. The portion of the first ram 100 includes a ram body 102 (e.g., first ram body). The ram body 102 extends from a rearward end 104 to a forward end 106. The rearward end 104 is positioned proximate to the bonnet assembly and the forward end 106 is positioned proximate to the central bore when the first ram 100 is installed in the BOP. The rearward end 104 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape, although other shapes and configurations are envisioned (e.g., elongated shape). The forward end 106 may include various surfaces and features to facilitate guiding and engaging the conduit, interlocking with a second ram in a desirable manner, and sealing the central bore.

[0044] In particular, the forward end 106 of the first ram 100 includes a blade 108 (e.g., first blade; key; guide; protrusion). In some embodiments, the blade 108 is integrally formed with the ram body 102 (e.g., one piece). The blade 108 includes a forward edge 110 (e.g., blade forward edge) with a first tapered portion 112, a second tapered portion 114, and a curved portion 116. The curved portion 116 is positioned between the first tapered portion 112 and the second tapered portion 114 along the forward edge 110 and relative to the lateral axis 34. Further, the curved portion 116 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the first ram 100 relative to the lateral axis 34. As discussed herein, the curved portion 116 aligns vertically with other curved portions of the first ram 100 to form an opening (e.g., central opening) for the conduit.

[0045] As shown, the first tapered portion 112 is tapered such that a first end of the first tapered portion 112 at a first laterally outer side 115 of the blade 108 is positioned at a first distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32, a second end of the first tapered portion 112 proximate to the curved portion 116 is positioned at a second distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32, and the first distance is greater than the second distance. Similarly, the second tapered portion 114 is tapered such that a first end of the second tapered portion 114 at a second laterally outer side 118 of the blade 108 is positioned at the first distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32, a second end of the second tapered portion 114 proximate to the curved portion 116 is positioned at the second distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32, and the first distance is greater than the second distance. Thus, the first tapered portion 112 and the second tapered portion 114 provide the blade 108 with a generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape, but with the curved portion 116 at an apex of the generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape. The curved portion 116 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 116 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. The blade 108 extends forward of an upper portion 120 (e.g., recessed portion or wall) of the ram body 102 along the axial axis 32 to enable the blade 108 to fit within a pocket on the second ram of the BOP. Additionally, this configuration enables placement of openings 122 through the blade 108. As discussed in more detail herein, the openings 122 may receive fasteners (e.g., bolts) to retain a packer assembly on the ram body 102.

[0046] The forward end 106 of the first ram 100 also includes a packer slot 124. The packer slot 124 is configured to receive and to support the packer assembly on the ram body 102. The packer slot 124 is defined by a first surface 126 (e.g., a lower surface; vertically-facing surface), a rearward surface 128 (e.g., axially-facing surface), a second surface 130 (e.g., an upper surface; vertically- facing surface), and side surfaces 132 (e.g., one on each lateral side of the ram body 102; laterally-facing surfaces). The first surface 126 may be part of a ledge 134 (e.g., protrusion; lower ledge) that supports the packer assembly in the packer slot 124, and that also separates the packer assembly in the packer slot 124 from a pocket 136 (e.g., slot) that is configured to receive a blade of the second ram. As shown, the ledge 134 may include a forward edge 138 (e.g., ledge forward edge) that extends from a first laterally outer side 140 of the ledge 134 to a second laterally outer side 142 of the ledge 134, and the forward edge 138 may include a curved portion 144. The curved portion 144 is may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the first ram 100 relative to the lateral axis 34. The curved portion 144 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 144 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 116, 144 align vertically (e.g., with respect to one another and other curved portions of the first ram 100) to form the opening for the conduit.

[0047] The second surface 130 may be part of a lip 145 (e.g., upper ledge) that provides separation (e.g., along the vertical axis 30) between the blade 108 and the packer slot 124. As shown, the lip 145 may include a forward edge 147 (e.g., lip forward edge) that extends from a first laterally outer side of the lip 145 to a second laterally outer side 149 of the lip 145, and the forward edge 147 may include a curved portion 151. The curved portion 151 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the first ram 100 relative to the lateral axis 34. The curved portion 151 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 151 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portion 151 aligns vertically with other curved portions of the first ram 100 to form the opening for the conduit. The forward edge 138 of the ledge 134 and the forward edge 147 of the lip 145 may have sufficient dimension (e.g., height) along the vertical axis 30 to separate the packer assembly in the packer slot 124 from the blade 108 (and thus, the pocket of the second ram) and the pocket 136 (and thus, the blade of the second ram) while the first ram 100 is engaged with the second ram in the closed configuration.

[0048] As shown, the forward end 106 of the first ram 100 also includes the pocket 136. The pocket 136 is defined by a first surface 146 (e.g., lower surface; vertically-facing surface), a rearward surface 148 (e.g., axially-facing surface), and a second surface 150 (e.g., upper surface; vertically-facing surface). The second surface 150 may be part of the ledge 134. The second surface 150 may have a chamfer or curvature (e.g., a tapered/angled surface or a curved surface; see also FIG. 7), at least at a forward end portion, to guide the blade of the second ram into the pocket 136. The rearward surface 148 may include tapered portions that correspond to the blade of the second ram (e.g., the rearward surface 148 includes the tapered portions with laterally outer sides positioned at one distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32 and center portions positioned at another, greater distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32; the tapered portions provide a generally v-shaped cross- sectional shape with an apex of the generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape at the another, greater distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32). [0049] The first surface 146 may be part of a lower portion 152 (e.g., guide portion) of the ram body 102. The pocket 136 extends rearward from the lower portion 152 of the ram body 102 along the axial axis 32 to enable the blade of the second ram to fit within the pocket 136. The lower portion 152 of the ram body 102 may include a forward edge 154 (e.g., lower portion forward edge; surface). As shown, the forward edge 154 may include tapered portions and a curved portion 156. The curved portion 156 is positioned between the tapered portions along the forward edge 154 and relative to the lateral axis 34. Further, the curved portion 156 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the first ram 100 relative to the lateral axis 34. The tapered portions of the forward edge 154 include laterally outer sides positioned at one distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32 and center portions positioned at another, lesser distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32 (e.g., the tapered portions provide a generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape with the curved portion 156 at an apex of the generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape at the another, lesser distance relative to the rearward end 104 along the axial axis 32). The curved portion 156 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 156 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 116, 144, 156 align vertically (with respect to one another and other curved portions of the first ram 100) to form the opening for the conduit.

[0050] Thus, as shown, the forward end 106 of the ram body 102 may have multiple surfaces (e.g., the tapered portions 112, 114 of the blade 108 and the tapered portions of the lower portion 152 of the ram body 102; four tapered portions with one tapered portion in each quadrant of the ram body 102) that guide the conduit toward the curved portions 116, 144, 156 (and other vertically aligned curved portions of the first ram 100) as the interlocking rams move from the open configuration to the closed configuration. Additionally, the forward end 106 of the ram body 102 may have the blade 108 that fits within the pocket of the second ram, the pocket 136 that receives the blade of the second ram, as well as the packer slot 124 that separates the packer assembly from the blade 108 (and thus, the pocket of the second ram) and the pocket 136 (and thus, the blade of the second ram). In this way, the first ram 100 may engage and interlock with the second ram, while also protecting the packer assembly of the first ram 100 from contact with certain components of the second ram, which may facilitate transitions between the open configuration and the closed configuration, as well as provide durability and/or other advantages. As shown in FIG. 4, the ram body 102 may also include an upper groove 160 that is configured to receive a seal element 162.

[0051] Additional features of the first ram 100 are shown in FIGS. 5-8. For example, FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded top view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 with the seal element 162, as well as a packer assembly 170 with a packer 172 (e.g., flexible packer element; with forward and side portions; elastomer) supported by an insert 174 (e.g., rigid frame; retainer plate; metal). The packer assembly 170 may fit into the packer slot 124, and the packer 172 may contact and engage with the seal element 162 to form a continuous seal element about the ram body 102. As shown, the packer assembly 170 includes a curved portion 176. The curved portion 176 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the first ram 100 and a forward edge 178 (e.g., packer forward edge) of the packer assembly 170 relative to the lateral axis 34. The curved portion 176 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 176 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 116, 144, 156, 176 align vertically (with respect to one another and other curved portions of the first ram 100) to form the opening for the conduit.

[0052] Once the packer assembly 170 is inserted into the packer slot 124, fasteners 180 (e.g., bolts) may be inserted through the openings 122 in the blade 108 to engage recesses 182 (e.g., grooves) in the insert 174 of the packer assembly 170. In some embodiments, the fasteners 180 are coupled to the openings 122 via threads (e.g., threaded interface), and the recesses 182 are sized to be larger than the fasteners 180 to enable some (e.g., limited) movement of the packer assembly 170 relative to the ram body 102.

[0053] FIG. 6 is a perspective isometric view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 with the seal element 162 and the packer assembly 170, and FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 with the seal element 162 and the packer assembly 170. As shown, with the packer assembly 170 inserted into the packer slot 124, the packer assembly 170 and the packer 172 are separated (e.g., isolated) from the blade 108 and the pocket 136 (e.g., along the vertical axis 30). In particular, the packer assembly 170 and the packer 172 are separated from the blade 108 via the lip 145 and are also separated from the pocket 136 via the ledge 134.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional rear view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 taken through line 8-8 of FIG. 7. As shown, the first ram 100 includes the ram body 102 that supports the seal element 162 and the packer assembly 170. In some embodiments, the first ram 100 may include a groove 190 (e.g., extending along the axial axis 32) that is configured to receive a rod that is coupled to the bonnet assembly to block rotation of the first ram 100 relative to the housing and the bonnet assembly. Additionally, as shown, the first ram 100 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape; however, other shapes and configurations are envisioned (e.g., elongated shape).

[0055] It should be appreciated that FIGS. 4 and 5 also generally represent a series of steps that may be utilized to assemble the first ram 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the seal element 162 may be installed in the upper groove 160 of the ram body 102. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, the packer assembly 170 may be inserted into the packer slot 124, and then the fasteners 180 may be inserted through the openings 122 into the recesses 182 of the insert 174 of the packer assembly 170 to retain the packer assembly 170 in the packer slot 124.

[0056] FIGS. 9-13 illustrate an embodiment of a second ram 200 (e.g., second interlocking ram) of the opposed interlocking rams 70 of FIG. 3. In particular, FIG. 9 is a perspective exploded top view of a portion of the second ram 200. The portion of the second ram 200 includes a ram body 202 (e.g., second ram body). The ram body 202 extends from a rearward end 204 to a forward end 206. The rearward end 204 is positioned proximate to the bonnet assembly and the forward end 206 is positioned proximate to the central bore when the second ram 200 is installed in the BOP. The rearward end 204 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape, although other shapes and configurations are envisioned (e.g., elongated shape). The forward end 206 may include various surfaces to facilitate guiding and engaging the conduit, interlocking with the first ram in a desirable manner, and sealing the central bore.

[0057] In particular, the forward end 206 of the second ram 200 includes a blade 208 (e.g., second blade; key; guide; protrusion). In some embodiments, the blade 208 is integrally formed with the ram body 202 (e.g., one piece). The blade 208 includes a forward edge 210 (e.g., blade forward edge) with a first tapered portion 212, a second tapered portion 214, and a curved portion 216. The curved portion 216 is positioned between the first tapered portion 212 and the second tapered portion 214 along the forward edge 210 and relative to the lateral axis 34. Further, the curved portion 216 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the second ram 200 relative to the lateral axis 34. As discussed herein, the curved portion 216 aligns vertically with other curved portions of the second ram 200 to form an opening (e.g., central opening) for the conduit.

[0058] As shown, the first tapered portion 212 is tapered such that a first end of the first tapered portion 212 at a first laterally outer side 215 of the blade 208 is positioned at a first distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32, a second end of the first tapered portion 212 proximate to the curved portion 216 is positioned at a second distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32, and the first distance is greater than the second distance. Similarly, the second tapered portion 214 is tapered such that a first end of the second tapered portion 214 at a second laterally outer side 218 of the blade 208 is positioned at the first distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32, a second end of the second tapered portion 214 proximate to the curved portion 216 is positioned at the second distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32, and the first distance is greater than the second distance. Thus, the first tapered portion 212 and the second tapered portion 214 provide the blade 208 with a generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape, but with the curved portion 216 at an apex of the generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape. The curved portion 216 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 216 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. The blade 208 extends forward of a lower portion 220 (e.g., recessed portion) of the ram body 202 along the axial axis 32 to enable the blade 208 to fit within the pocket on the first ram of the BOP. Additionally, this configuration enables placement of openings 222 through the blade 208. As discussed in more detail herein, the openings 222 may receive fasteners (e.g., bolts) to retain a packer on the ram body 202.

[0059] The forward end 206 of the second ram 200 also includes a packer slot 224. The packer slot 224 is configured to receive and to support the packer assembly on the ram body 202. The packer slot 224 is defined by a first surface 226 (e.g., an upper surface; vertically-facing surface), a rearward surface 228 (e.g., axially-facing surface), a second surface 230 (e.g., lower surface; vertically- facing surface), and side surfaces 232 (e.g., one on each lateral side of the ram body 202; laterally-facing surfaces). The first surface 226 may be part of a ledge 234 (e.g., protrusion; upper ledge) that provides separation (e.g., along the vertical axis 30) between the packer slot 224 and a pocket 236 (e.g., slot) that is configured to receive the blade of the first ram. As shown, the ledge 234 may include a forward edge 238 (e.g., ledge forward edge) that extends from a first laterally outer side of the ledge 234 to a second laterally outer side 242 of the ledge 234, and the forward edge 238 may include a curved portion 244. The curved portion 244 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the second ram 200 relative to the lateral axis 34. The curved portion 244 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 244 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 216, 244 align vertically (e.g., with respect to one another and other curved portions of the second ram 200) to form the opening for the conduit.

[0060] The second surface 230 may be part of a lip 245 (e.g., upper ledge) that provides separation (e.g., along the vertical axis 30) between the blade 208 and the packer slot 224. As shown, the lip 245 may include a forward edge 247 (e.g., lip forward edge) that extends from a first laterally outer side 240 of the lip 245 to a second laterally outer side 249 of the lip 145, and the forward edge 247 may include a curved portion 251 . The curved portion 251 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the second ram 200 relative to the lateral axis 34. The curved portion 251 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 251 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 216, 244, 251 align vertically (e.g., with respect to one another and other curved portions of the second ram 200) to form the opening for the conduit. The forward edge 238 of the ledge 234 and the forward edge 247 of the lip 245 may have sufficient dimension (e.g., height) along the vertical axis 30 to separate the packer assembly in the packer slot 224 from the blade 208 (and thus, the pocket of the first ram) and the pocket 236 (and thus, the blade of the first ram) while the second ram 200 is engaged with the first ram in the closed configuration.

[0061] As shown, the forward end 206 of the second ram 200 also includes the pocket 236. The pocket 236 is defined by a first surface 246 (e.g., upper surface; vertically-facing surface), a rearward surface 248 (e.g., axially-facing surface), and a second surface 250 (e.g., lower surface; vertically-facing surface). The second surface 250 may be part of the ledge 234. The second surface 250 may have a chamfer or curvature (e.g., a tapered/angled surface or a curved surface; see also FIG. 12), at least at a forward end portion, to guide the blade of the first ram into the pocket 236. The rearward surface 248 may include tapered portions that correspond to the blade of the first ram (e.g., the rearward surface 248 includes the tapered portions with laterally outer sides positioned at one distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32 and center portions positioned at another, greater distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32; the tapered portions provide a generally v-shaped cross- sectional shape with an apex of the generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape at the another, greater distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32).

[0062] The first surface 246 may be part of an upper portion 252 (e.g., guide portion) of the ram body 202. The pocket 236 extends rearward from the upper portion 252 of the ram body 202 along the axial axis 32 to enable the blade of the first ram to fit within the pocket 236. The upper portion 252 of the ram body 202 may include a forward edge 254 (e.g., upper portion forward edge; surface). As shown, the forward edge 254 may include tapered portions and a curved portion 256. The curved portion 256 is positioned between the tapered portions along the forward edge 254 and relative to the lateral axis 34. Further, the curved portion 256 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the second ram 200 relative to the lateral axis 34. The tapered portions of the forward edge 254 include laterally outer sides positioned at one distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32 and center portions positioned at another, lesser distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32 (e.g., the tapered portions provide a generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape with the curved portion 256 at an apex of the generally v-shaped cross-sectional shape at the another, lesser distance relative to the rearward end 204 along the axial axis 32). The curved portion 256 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 256 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 216, 244, 251 , 256 align vertically (with respect to one another and other curved portions of the second ram 200) to form the opening for the conduit.

[0063] Thus, as shown, the forward end 206 of the ram body 202 may have multiple surfaces (e.g., the tapered portions 212, 214 of the blade 208 and the tapered portions of the upper portion 252 of the ram body 202; four tapered portions with one tapered portion in each quadrant of the ram body 202) that guide the conduit toward the curved portions 216, 244, 251 , 256 as the interlocking rams move from the open configuration to the closed configuration. Additionally, the forward end 206 of the ram body 202 may have the blade 208 that fits within the pocket of the first ram, the pocket 236 that receives the blade of the first ram, as well as the packer slot 224 that separates the packer assembly from the blade 208 (and thus, the pocket of the first ram) and the pocket 236 (and thus, the blade of the first ram). In this way, the first ram may engage and interlock with the second ram 200, while also protecting the packer assembly of the second ram 200 from contact with certain components of the first ram, which may facilitate transitions between the open configuration and the closed configuration, as well as provide durability and/or other advantages. As shown in FIG. 9, the ram body 202 may also include an upper groove 260 that is configured to receive a seal element 262.

[0064] Additional features of the second ram 200 are shown in FIGS. 10-13. For example, FIG. 10 is a perspective exploded top view of an embodiment of the second ram 200 with the seal element 262, as well as a packer assembly 270 with a packer 272 (e.g., flexible packer element; with forward and side portions; elastomer) supported by an insert 274 (e.g., rigid frame; retainer plate; metal). The packer assembly 270 may fit into the packer slot 224, and the packer 272 may contact and engage with the seal element 262 to form a continuous seal element about the ram body 202. As shown, the packer assembly 270 includes a curved portion 276. The curved portion 276 may be at a center (e.g., midline) of the second ram 200 and a forward edge 278 (e.g., packer forward edge) of the packer assembly 270 relative to the lateral axis 34. The curved portion 276 is provided to support and to surround the conduit, and thus, it should be appreciated that the curved portion 276 may have any suitable size (e.g., diameter) to support and to surround the conduit that extends through the BOP. As discussed herein, the curved portions 216, 244, 251 , 256, 276 align vertically (with respect to one another) to form the opening for the conduit.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 11 , once the packer assembly 270 is inserted into the packer slot 224, fasteners 280 (e.g., bolts) may be inserted through the openings 222 in the blade 208 to engage recesses (e.g., grooves) in the insert 274 of the packer assembly 270. In some embodiments, the fasteners 280 are coupled to the openings 222 via threads (e.g., threaded interface), and the recesses are sized to be larger than the fasteners 280 to enable some (e.g., limited) movement of the packer assembly 270 relative to the ram body 202.

[0066] FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded bottom view of an embodiment of the second ram 200 with the seal element 262 and the packer assembly 270, and FIG. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of the second ram 200 with the seal element 262 and the packer assembly 270. As shown, with the packer assembly 270 inserted into the packer slot 224, the packer assembly 270 and the packer 272 are separated (e.g., isolated) from the blade 208 and the pocket 236 (e.g., along the vertical axis 30). In particular, the packer assembly 270 and the packer 272 are separated from the blade 208 via the lip 245 and also separated from the pocket 236 via the ledge 234.

[0067] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional rear view of an embodiment of the second ram 200 taken through line 13-13 of FIG. 12. As shown, the second ram 200 includes the ram body 202 that supports the seal element 262 and the packer assembly 270. In some embodiments, the second ram 200 may include a groove 290 (e.g., extending along the axial axis 32) that is configured to receive a rod that is coupled to the bonnet assembly to block rotation of the second ram 200 relative to the housing and the bonnet assembly. Additionally, as shown, the second ram 200 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape; however, other shapes and configurations are envisioned (e.g., elongated shape).

[0068] It should be appreciated that FIGS. 9-11 also generally represent a series of steps that may be utilized to assemble the second ram 200. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the seal element 262 may be installed in the upper groove 260 of the ram body 202. Then, as shown in FIG. 10, the packer assembly 270 may be inserted into the packer slot 224. Then, as shown in FIG. 11 , the fasteners 280 may be inserted through the openings 222 into the recesses of the insert 274 of the packer assembly 270 to retain the packer assembly 270 in the packer slot 224.

[0069] As shown at least in FIGS. 4 and 9, the forward end 106 of the first ram 100 and the forward end 206 of the second ram 200 may include the same or similar features (e.g., blades, lips, packer slots, ledges, pockets). However, the features on the forward end 106 of the first ram 100 are offset or rotated (e.g., 180 degrees) relative to the features on the forward end 206 of the second ram 200 to thereby enable the blade 108 of the first ram 100 to insert into the pocket 236 of the second ram 200 and to enable the blade 208 of the second ram 200 to insert into the pocket 136 of the first ram 100, while also protecting the packer assemblies 170, 270, in the closed configuration of the BOP.

[0070] FIGS. 14-16 illustrate the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 as the BOP transitions from the open configuration to the closed configuration. In particular, FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 in the open configuration 72. In the open configuration 72, the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 are withdrawn from the central bore, do not contact the conduit, and/or do not contact one another.

[0071] FIG. 15 is a side view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 in an intermediate configuration 300 as the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 transition between the open configuration and the closed configuration. As shown, features on the forward end 106 of the first ram 100 and features on the forward end 206 of the second ram 200 may facilitate alignment between the first ram 100 and the second ram 200, such as to guide the blade 108 of the first ram 100 into the pocket 236 of the second ram 200 and the blade 208 of the second ram 200 into the pocket 136 of the first ram 100. As the blade 108 of the first ram 100 inserts into the pocket 236 of the second ram 200, and as the blade 208 of the second ram 200 inserts into the pocket 136 of the first ram 100, the packer assemblies 170, 270 remain separated (e.g., isolated) from the blades 108, 208 (via the lips 145, 245) and the pockets 136, 236 (via the ledges 134, 234). Thus, as shown in boxes 302, the blades 108, 208 may move into the pockets 136, 236 without contacting or sliding along the packer assemblies 170, 270. Further, at the same time, the tapered surfaces (e.g., of the blades 108, 208 and the guide portions 152, 252) guide the conduit to the various curved portions aligned along the midline of the first and second rams 100, 200.

[0072] FIG. 16 is a side view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 in a closed configuration 304. In the closed configuration 304, the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 are positioned within the central bore, contact the conduit to seal the central bore, and/or contact one another to seal the central bore. In particular, features on the forward end 106 of the first ram 100 and features on the forward end 206 of the second ram 200 mate together to interlock the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 to seal the central bore. As shown, the blade 108 of the first ram 100 inserts into the pocket 236 of the second ram 200, and the blade 208 of the second ram 200 inserts into the pocket 136 of the first ram 100. Further, as shown in the boxes 302, the packer assemblies 170, 270 remain separated (e.g., isolated) from the blades 108, 208 (via the lips 145, 245) and the pockets 136, 236 (via the ledges 134, 234). Thus, the blades 108, 208 may be positioned in the pockets 136, 236 without contacting the packer assemblies 170, 270. Further, the conduit extends through the various curved portions aligned along the midline of the first and second rams 100, 200.

[0073] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the first ram 100 and the second ram 200 in the open configuration 72. As shown, in the first ram 100, the fasteners 180 extend through the openings 122 to engage the recesses 182 of the insert 174 of the packer assembly 170. Similarly, in the second ram 200, the fasteners 280 extend through the openings 222 to engage recesses 282 of the insert 274 of the packer assembly 270. The fasteners 180, 280 may engage the openings 122, 222 via threads (e.g., threaded interfaces). In some embodiments, the fasteners 180, 280 and the recesses 182, 282 are sized (e.g., the recesses 182, 282 are larger than ends of the fasteners 180, 280 in the recesses 182, 282) to enable the packer assemblies 170, 270 to move relative to the ram bodies 102, 202. This may facilitate engagement between the packers 172, 272 to seal of the central bore, as well as facilitate separation of the packers 172, 272 as the BOP transitions from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0074] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ram 400 that may be used in the interlocking rams of FIG. 3. The ram 400 may include a blade 408 with an increased thickness (e.g., as compared to the blade 108 of FIGS. 4-8) and/or a variable thickness to withstand bending forces. For example, in FIG. 18, the blade 408 includes a center portion (e.g., relative to the lateral axis 34) with a first, higher thickness (e.g., relative to the vertical axis 30), and outer portions (e.g., relative to the lateral axis 34) with a second, lower thickness (e.g., relative to the vertical axis 30). A pocket 436 of the ram 400 may also have a variable thickness to accommodate a variable thickness of a respective blade of a corresponding ram. A packer assembly 470 is separated (e.g., isolated) from the blade 408 and the pocket 436 (e.g., via a ledge and a lip), as described herein.

[0075] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ram 500 that may be used in the interlocking rams of FIG. 3. The ram 500 may include a blade 508 with an increased thickness (e.g., as compared to the blade 108 of FIGS. 4-8) and/or a variable thickness to withstand bending forces. For example, in FIG. 19, the blade 508 includes a center portion (e.g., relative to the lateral axis 34) with a first, higher thickness (e.g., relative to the vertical axis 30), and outer portions (e.g., relative to the lateral axis 34) with a second, lower thickness (e.g., relative to the vertical axis 30). A pocket 536 of the ram 500 may also have a variable thickness to accommodate a variable thickness of a respective blade of a corresponding ram. A packer assembly 570 is separated (e.g., isolated) from the blade 508 and the pocket 536 (e.g., via a ledge and a lip), as described herein. It should be appreciated that the interlocking rams disclosed herein may have any of a variety of dimensions and/or geometries that provide the separation (e.g., isolation) of components and/or guidance of the conduit, as described herein. [0076] FIG. 20 is a perspective view and FIG. 21 is a top view of an embodiment of a ram 600 that may be used in the interlocking rams of FIG. 3. The ram 600 may include a blade 608 with a forward edge 610, a first tapered portion 612, a second tapered portion 614, and a curved portion 616. The first tapered portion 612 and the second tapered portion 614 may each include multiple sections that extend at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis 32. As shown, the first tapered portion 612 and the second tapered portion 614 each include two sections. For example, the first tapered portion 612 includes a respective first section 618 at a respective first angle relative to the longitudinal axis 32 and a respective second section 620 at a respective second angle relative to the longitudinal axis 32. Similarly, the second tapered portion 614 includes a respective first section 622 at a respective first angle relative to the longitudinal axis 32 and a respective second section 624 at a respective second angle relative to the longitudinal axis 32. The first tapered portion 612 and the second tapered portion 614 may be symmetrical about a center line (e.g., along the longitudinal axis 32) and/or the curved portion 616.

[0077] Further, as shown, a lower portion 652 of the ram 600 may include tapered portions and a curved portion 656, and the tapered portions of the lower portion 652 may also include multiple sections that extend at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis 32. More than two sections may be provided, such as 3, 4, or more sections at various angles relative to the longitudinal axis 32. It should be appreciated that these features (e.g., multiple sections at different angles) may be incorporated into any of the rams disclosed herein (e.g., in the blades 108, 208, 408, 508; in the tapered portions of the lower portions, such as the lower portions 152, 252).

[0078] Without the features disclosed herein (e.g., without the separation between the blades 108, 208 from the packer assemblies 170, 270), the packer assemblies and/or the packers may experience wear due to contact with the blades. Additionally, without the features disclosed herein, the packer assemblies and/or the packers may provide resistance to moving the rams from the open configuration to the closed configuration (e.g., due to friction and/or interference), and/or may provide resistance to moving the rams from the closed configuration to the open configuration (e.g., due to friction and/or expansion of the packers in the closed configuration). Accordingly, the interlocking rams 70 disclosed herein (e.g., with the packer assemblies 170, 270 fully contained in their respective ram body 102, 202) may provide advantages with respect to efficient adjustment between the open configuration and the closed configuration, as well as durability, for example. Additionally, the interlocking rams 70 disclosed herein also include the tapered portions 112, 114, 212, 214 of the blades 108, 208 and other surfaces (e.g., the tapered portions of the forward edges 154, 254) to guide the conduit to facilitate sealing the central bore.

[0079] While the disclosure may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the following appended claims. Indeed, the features shown and described with reference to FIGS. 1 -19 may be combined in any suitable manner. Additionally, the features shown and described may be utilized in any of a variety of systems and/or contexts, such as in drilling systems during drilling operations. Furthermore, numerical terms, such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are used to distinguish components to facilitate discussion, and it should be appreciated that the numerical terms may be used differently or assigned to different elements in the claims