Definition(s)
Rotating Control Device
Drill through equipment designed to allow the rotation of the drill string and containment of pressure by the use of seals or packers that seal against the drill string (drill pipe, casing, etc.).
Source: ABS Guide for Classification and Certification of Managed Pressure Drilling Systems, September 2017. Global Standards
Rotating Control Device
Drill-through device with a rotating seal that allows continued drilling operations while maintaining pressure in the wellbore.
Source: API Specification 16Q, Design, Selection, Operation, and Maintenance of Marine Drilling Riser Systems, Second Edition, April 2017. Global Standards
Rotating Control Device (RCD)
A drill through device with a rotating seal that contacts and seals against the drill string (drill pipe, casing, kelly, etc.) for the purpose of controlling the pressure or fluid flow to surface.
Source: API SPEC 16RCD, Specification for Drill Through Equipment—Rotating Control Devices, Upstream Segment, First Edition, February 2005. Global Standards