API Spec 16A (R2023) Specification for Drill Through Equipment, Fourth Edition, Includes Errata 1 (2017), Addendum 1 (2017), Errata 2 (2017), Errata 3 (2018), Addendum 2 (2025), and Errata 4 (2025)

About this publication

This specification defines the requirements for performance, design, materials, testing and inspection, welding, marking, handling, storing, and shipping of drill-through equipment used for drilling for oil and gas.

Specifically, this document applies to the manufacture and testing of ram blowout preventers; ram blocks, packers, and top seals; annular blowout preventers; annular packing units; and associated connectors.

It also defines service conditions in terms of pressure, temperature, and wellbore fluids for which the equipment is designed.

Repair and remanufacture of 16A equipment is now covered in API 16AR, Standard for Repair and Remanufacturing of Drill-through Equipment.

This specification does not apply to field use or field