Abstract: A coupler which is adapted to be connected to a complementary device for the transfer of a fluid between the coupler to the complementary device comprises a body through which the fluid is allowed to flow, at least one seal for providing a fluid-tight seal between the coupler and the complementary device, and a protecting device for the seal. The protecting device is movable between a first position before connection in which the protecting device projects beyond the seal in the direction of connection, and a second position after connection in which the protecting device no longer projects beyond the seal. The coupler also includes a damper for urging the protecting device towards its first position.

Abstract: A clamping assembly for a coupler comprises at least one clamping module which includes a clamping jaw (12) that is designed for connecting the coupler to a complementary means device and an actuating system that comprises a device of the screw/nut type which is driven by a motor. The actuating system is connected directly to the clamping jaw, and the clamping jaw is swivel-mounted to a support about a point that is fixed relative to the coupler.

Abstract: The invention relates to a clamping assembly for a coupler, which comprises at least one clamping module (11) having a clamping jaw (12) designed for connecting a coupler (10) to a complementary means (13), and an actuating system (14) proper to the said jaw and comprising a device of the screw/nut type (15) driven by a motor (16), and is characterized in that the actuating system (14) is connected directly to the jaw and the said jaw (12) is swivel-mounted on a support (25) about a fixed point (26) defined by the said support, the latter being intended to be fixed to the coupler. The invention also relates to a coupler comprising the said clamping assembly.

Abstract: A plant comprising a post (2') with fixed sections attached thereto at various heights, and a horizontally distortable articulated pipe (3') attached to each of said sections. Other fixed sections (B'1 . . . B'19) are arranged on a single level along a substantially horizontal reference line (L'). The end of each pipe is connected to a tubular column (8') extending up to the reference line. Each column is movable along the reference line and may be shifted transversely so that the columns can pass one another in the vicinity of said line. Said plant is particularly useful in the oil industry.

Abstract: A fluid handling installation for selectively connecting any one of a plurality of inlet conduits to any one of a plurality of outlet conduits includes a frame supported manifold configuration of a plurality of perpendicular conduits and corresponding connection modules that can be selectively operated to connect inlet and outlet conduits.

Abstract: A pig-compatible three-way valve designed to be mounted on a fluid transfer conduit for use in oil or petroleum distribution or similar operations. The valve includes a tee-shaped tubular passageway and a valve closure element mounted on a control shaft for controlling fluid flow.

Abstract: A multiline fluid distribution system having an articulated fluid loading arm, which is swingable in vertical and horizontal planes, for selectively coupling the swingable fluid outlet end of the loading arm to any one of a plurality of parallel fluid transfer lines extending horizontally in a honey comb-like array. The fluid outlet end of the loading arm is supported on and transported by a carriage to the designated fluid transfer line for coupling therewith.

Abstract: A three-way ball valve adapted for connection to a liquid distribution pipe with a pipe cleaning device therein, the valve including a spherical closure element that is located with respect to the pipe to minimize deposition and accumulation of residues in said pipe and to facilitate removal of said residues by movement of said cleaning device past said closure element.

Abstract: A fluid transfer valve (1) adapted to be cleaned by scraping, comprising a main fluid transfer section (2), a plurality of secondary fluid transfer sections distributed angularly about the axis (X--X) of the main section and disposed at equal distances from and at equal inclinations to this axis, and a rotary tubular elbow (4) connected at one end (4A) by a rotary coupling (5) to the main section and adapted, depending on its angular position about the axis of the main section, to have its other end (4B) aligned with any selected one (3A) of the secondary sections.

Abstract: A pipeline scraper comprising an elongated body defined by two complementary parts that form end portions and a reduced cross-section central portion, two wear segments surrounding and mounted on the central portion adjacent the end portions, and threaded means releasably fastening the components together.

Abstract: A two-way valve apparatus for a fluid distribution pipe adapted to be cleaned by scraping, comprising a ported tube containing a mobile abutment member for receiving a scraper, and a sleeve and a tubular confinement member fastened to and moving axially in unison with the abutment member to open and close the tube port.

Abstract: A fluid loading arm emergency disconnection system comprising two pipe elements each including a normally closed valve that can be opened when said pipe elements are connected, means for sensing a connection between the arm and a receptacle, means for sensing a predetermined angular arm configuration, and means for disconnecting the arm when the connection and predetermined arm configuration are sensed simultaneously.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for effecting emergency disconnection of a fluid transfer arm from a marine tanker manifold or other vessel to which the arm is connected, including means to purge the arm of fluid prior to disconnection in order to prevent fluid spillage.

Abstract: Fluid transferring apparatus, more commonly referred to as a marine loading arm, comprising rigid, pivotally-interconnected inboard and outboard arm members pivotally mounted on an upstanding riser, and a system for maintaining the outboard member in a substantially horizontal attitude during the fluid transfer process. A first hydraulic ram, connected between the riser and the inboard member, and a second hydraulic ram, connected between the inboard member and the outboard member, are functionally coupled to a hydraulic system with an outboard arm member attitude sensing means, so that if the outboard arm member pivots more than a pre-selected distance above a horizontal attitude the first hydraulic ram provides pressurized fluid to the second hydraulic ram to return the outboard member to its horizontal attitude.