BP to start test to stop oil spill

BP temporarily slowed leakage after putting on cap

BP began a test that could potentially stop the oil spill from its destroyed rig on Wednesday. If the cap tests run smoothly, BP finally will be able to demonstrate results in stopping the oil spill from its rig that went out of control three very long months ago. Retired Coast Guard admiral Thad W. Allen confirmed after a briefing in the state of New Orleans after BP scientists approved the plan. The test were delayed, yet again for almost a day to make sure that mistakes weren’t being made.

The new test will involve an attempt to close another valve that was left open to alleviate the pressure and continues to leak. The test will include a serious of steps to close the open valves one by one while considering the safety of the procedure. The worst thing to happen if the tests fail will result in the leaking of the well from the bottom of the sea instead of going through the hole in the destroyed oil rigs.

BP scientists will watch the results of the test in real-time which is necessary to prevent catastrophic damages which would increase the gushing oil. These valves will be kept closed if they continue to hold the pressure that will build up as a result of being capped. The process will continue until the drilling of relief well is finished which is expected to be completed soon.

BP officials need to perform test to check if the wells are damaged and/or valves needs to be reopened to reduce the pressure on the cap. During this process, oil containment which is responsible for collecting around 60,000 barrels per day of the 500,000 gushing out will likely be reduced. This process will continue while the first relief well is being built. Development Driller III, a gigantic drill rig, is tasked with drilling relief wells which is seen as the last option to contain the leaks.