Abstract: An extrusion resistant expansible element for use as a sealing element or packer in a subterranean well bore. The expansible element comprises an inner elastomeric sleeve to which fluid pressure is internally applied to produce the expansion forces. The internal sleeve is surrounded by an annular array of elongated reinforcing slats formed of a relatively rigid, yet deformable material such as metal or a plastic filled with reinforcing material such as fiber glass. The medial portion of the reinforcing slats is surrounded by an outer elastomeric sleeve which effects the primary seal with the well bore when the internal elastomeric sleeve is expanded through the application of fluid pressure.

Abstract: An inflatable securing arrangement includes support means having a longitudinally extending annular elastomer body bonded thereto. An annular reinforcing is also secured to the support means and extends longitudinally thereof, and gripping means are carried by the support means, such gripping means extending longitudinally within the elastomer body whereby movement of the elastomer body by fluid pressure inwardly relative to the support means urges the gripping means inwardly relative to the support means for engaging an object positioned in the support means.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided having particular use in conjunction with setting of longitudinally extendable piling units for anchoring an offshore platform for subsequent use in drilling, production, completion and workover of a subterranean well. The apparatus is designed to be selectively movable within the base of the piling, thereafter the unit is manipulated to urge a plurality of circumferentially extending segmented units to expandably engage within the piling base and, preferably, be locked therewithin, such that the piling may be positionably engaged along longitudinally extending legs of the platform. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus provides an inflatable element which expands the segments for engagement with the bore of the piling. Alternatively, a modified apparatus utilizes a unit which is inserted within the base of the piling by means of a wire line or related apparatus.