WELL ConTRoL EQuipMeNT 59 FIGURE 1-42 + Typical diverter stack DRILL STRING FLOW LINE CONTROL PANEL (oman CHOKE DEVICES ‘A “choke” is used to control flow and pressure. The choke resistance creates a back pressure that controls formation pressure when a kick is circulated from the well. Many choke types have been used for well control purposes. Among these are positive, or fixed-orifice size chokes, and adjustable chokes manufactured with rubber or stecl trim. The primary type of choke used today is the steel, remote-controlled adjustable choke because of its greater durability over the rubber choke and its ability to change orifice sizes quickly. Manually Adjustable Steel Chokes The manually adjustable steel choke is an older type that is still used. This type creates a back pressure with a stem and beveled seat mechanism. Fluid is allowed to flow through the seat or orifice. As some alteration in the amount of back pressure is required, the stem is positioned in the seat