Chris Friesen wrote:
On 05/03/2010 05:26 PM, Steve wrote:

One report I heard today is that the function of the BOP -- which
staunchs the flow by crushing the pipe -- was blocked by drill pieces
inside the pipe.

So the BOP only works once the well is drilled and the drill string is
removed? That's quite the time window for catastrophic failure.


Sometimes you don't have to remove the drill string.

Spindletop blew 1,139 feet of pipe right out of the well.

People screaming "Run for your lives!" and "Chicken Licken was right!" A
sight to behold.