Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus are provided for recovering high viscosity oils from a sub-surface earth formation utilizing horizontal well apparatus. A plurality of horizontal drill holes extend from a large diameter vertical shaft hole into the formation of interest. Steam may be injected into the formation through selectively placed conventional vertical wells terminating within the oil-bearing formation, while oil is recovered from the lateral drill holes. A noncondensible gas or cold water may be injected into the formation subsequent to steam injection to enhance the overall recovery of oil.

Abstract: An explosion-proof fluorescent light fixture for use in hazardous environments, comprising a pair of fluorescent lamps each shielded by a protective globe and electrical contact containing end connectors at the opposed ends of the lamps and globes. The end connectors and globes form integral one-piece self-contained units and, in case of breakage or a globe, the entire unit of globe and end connectors can be easily detached and replaced simply the unloosening or re-fastening of bolts which normally secure the end connectors to the light fixture. The end connectors are provided with detachable end caps enabling a burned-out tube to be withdrawn and replaced.

Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus are provided for recovering high viscosity oils from sub-surface earth formations. In particular, a large diameter shaft hole is employed and a plurality of substantially horizontal drill holes extend radially from the shaft hole into the formation. It is a feature of this invention to provide vertically spaced drill holes oriented to improve the recovery of the oil. Methods are provided for further enhancing oil recovery by coordinating the injected fluid with the location of injection within the formation.

Abstract: An improved access port structure for a vessel, such as a coal gassification furnace, in which a closure member is mounted for movement, on the vessel to open or close an opening, a means of providing a steam vortex flowing into the opening to prevent the escape of gases from the vessel, and an interconnection to the steam supply to assure that the vortex is operating prior to the opening of the closure member.

Abstract: An improved galvanizing system is provided having a centrifuge assembly wherein an elongate member positively couples a motor means to a container holding articles to be spun. This positive engagement results in more rapid rotational acceleration and deceleration. A dumping means is provided to automatically remove articles from the container. Further, an automated ejection means is provided for removing the empty container from the centrifuge assembly.

Abstract: A pump for moving conductive or non-conductive liquids having a closed loop duct with an inlet and an outlet. An impeller is located within the duct and includes a plurality of serially connected iron cores arranged for rotation within the duct. Movement of the cores within the duct is effected by a plurality of solenoids arranged externally and concentrically of the duct. Control means in the form of sensors actuate and de-actuate one or more of the solenoids. A method for pumping discrete and separated portions of fluid along a path of confinement is also set forth herein.

Abstract: A thread protector apparatus is disclosed for drill pipe. The apparatus is similarly constructed for both male and female threads. The apparatus utilizes an encircling tubular member which is spaced away from and concentric with the threaded portion of the drill pipe. At the edge of the tubular portion next to the end of the pipe, it is turned radially outwardly. The tubular portion supports a layer of resilient material adjacent to the threads. The resilient material is jammed against the threads by a wedge-shaped member which latches against the tubular member. The tubular member is provided with a number of tabs which protrude outwardly along angled directions to receive the tapered lock member. The tabs are adjacent a parallel protective ridge. The tapered lock is slidably inserted and removed. The tapered lock member has angled edges which match the angled directions of the upset members.For both male and female versions of the apparatus, a cup-shaped end closure is disclosed.