Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus are provided for adjusting a drill string compensator used for supporting a tubular string passing through a marine drilling vessel. First and second frames of the compensator are interconnected by a plurality of chains or other suitable force transmitting members, eacvh having a threaded rod connected at one end and passing through a respective bore in one of the frames. A plurality of ring-shaped transloader assemblies are provided for uniform tensioning of the force transmitting members, and each transloader assembly is independently axially movable and rotatable about its respective threaded rod. Each transloader assembly preferably includes a sleeve for transmitting load forces between the force transmitting members and the frame, and each sleeve is constructed such that only compressional forces are induced in the sleeve by the load.

Abstract: A transloader provides means and method for adjusting multiple chains in an array for uniform tensioning. The transloader is mounted adjacent a reference member with chain adjustment rods passing through respective spring assemblies in a spring block. The central adjustment rod is adjusted to position the spring block with respect to the reference member and the remaining adjustment rods adjusted to position respective spring followers relative to the spring block thereby providing uniform tension on all chains.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and method for degassing drilling mud. The apparatus includes a pressure vessel having an inlet and an outlet. A vertically oriented tube is axially rotatably mounted within the pressure vessel. The tube has an open lower end communicating with the inlet and a closed upper end having a plurality of ports therebelow. A rotor is mounted to the tube for rotation therewith and includes an upwardly facing conical surface below the ports which slopes upwardly and outwardly toward a rim. An impingement ring is mounted within the pressure vessel about and radially spaced apart from the rim. An upwardly facing conical film tray is mounted within the pressure vessel below the rotor and impingement ring and has a surface sloping downwardly and inwardly toward a central opening. A collecting bowl is mounted below the central opening for rotation with the tube. The collecting bowl includes an upwardly and inwardly turned wall.

Abstract: A bollard used in vessel mooring and like operations includes a bollard drum around which the line or hawser is wrapped several times to reduce the line tension at the free length behind the drum. A cleat is provided for holding fast the free length of the hawser at the reduced tension. The hawser may be quickly released from the bollard during emergency situations by simultaneously unlatching the cleat and releasing a lock on the bollard allowing it to rotate as the hawser is pulled off and finally lifted out of the cleat.