Abstract: Apparatus for connecting a fluid cargo transfer hose to a marine tanker manifold, comprising a flow control valve and a flanged spool on the end of the hose, and a pipe coupler-valve operator assembly on the tanker manifold. In one embodiment of the invention the pipe coupler-valve operator assembly is mounted on an articulated pipe assembly and supported by a guide structure that facilitates moving the coupler into and out of contact with the spool flange on the end of the hose, and moving the valve operator into and out of engagement with the valve stem, during coupling and uncoupling operations. In another embodiment of the invention the pipe coupler-valve operator assembly is mounted in a fixed position on the tanker manifold, and the flow control valve and flanged spool are brought into coupling position by means of a winch and a guide assembly mounted on the tanker deck.

Abstract: An expandable and retractable fluid conduit is disclosed for conveying fluid between a fixed point and a movable point. A plurality of rigid pipe sections are pivotally connected in end-to-end relation by swivel joints to form an articulated fluid conveying pipe. A plurality of rigid support sections are pivotally connected in end-to-end relation to form an articulated support member. The articulated pipe member and the articulated support member criss-cross, and are pivotally connected at their intersections, to form a lazy tong configuration. Universal swivel joints are provided at each end of the conduit, and means is provided to render each pipe section and each support section buoyant in underwater installations. In another embodiment of the invention, two articulated fluid conveying pipes criss-cross for pivotal connection at their intersections.

Abstract: A fluid conducting swivel joint is disclosed which has a sealing system effective against the leakage of fluids of extreme temperature. The joint consists of two housings mounted for relative rotation about an axis, the housings having a fluid passage therethrough. A first annular sealing chamber, having a seal therein, surrounds the passage, and is located adjacent the passage at the interface between the housings. Each housing has a radial flange at said interface, said flanges spaced apart to define an annular tempering chamber therebetween. A second annular sealing chamber, having a seal therein, is positioned between the flanges outboard of the tempering chamber. A temperature controlling chamber is mounted on one or both of said flanges. One of the housings may have an annular insulating chamber, and insulating members may be used to additionally insulate the second sealing chamber.

Abstract: A dry-break coupler attaches to an adapter for loading fluid into the bottom of a tank. The coupler and the adapter can be connected or separated without the loss of fluid, while both fittings are subjected to internal fluid pressure. The coupler is of the type used on a gasoline tank truck loading arm, and the adapter is in accordance with the standards of the American Petroleum Institute. The coupler has a tubular body that defines a central flow passage and a movable valve closure element that opens and closes the coupler flow passage. This valve closure element also actuates a central valve of an adjacent adapter. An adapter latch is mounted upon a first rotatable shaft that is pivotally mounted on the coupler tubular body. A second rotatable shaft that operates the valve closure element is mounted within the tubular body. Portions of both the first and second rotatable shafts extend in substantially parallel relationship.

Abstract: A marine loading arm jumper assembly especially suitable for use on a buoy or other offshore fluid transferring facility where tanker movements are large and space is limited. The assembly comprises a pair of articulated loading arms extending from a coaxial pipe swivel joint mounted on the buoy, and a terminal pipe swivel joint assembly including another coaxial swivel joint for connecting this dual arm system to a tanker manifold. A guide arm assembly also is provided to maintain the loading arm in proper alignment with the terminal swivel joint assembly while the arm is disconnected therefrom as during periods of very bad weather.