On 05/03/2010 02:07 PM, HeyBub wrote:

A hack-saw could have easily cut the communication wires to the BOP. I don't
think BOPs are autonomous devices (like a sprinkler system). How could a BOP
know the rig above it has caught fire or been blown away?

Umm....a BOP is a failsafe device. If it loses communications with the
rig above it should close the pipe. Basic deadman switch.

Chris