Abstract: A packing element for a blowout preventer includes an annular flexible non-metallic composite body disposed about a longitudinal axis that is adapted to be compressively displaced inwardly towards the axis. A plurality of non-metallic composite inserts are embedded in the body in generally circular fashion spaced apart in respective radial planes extending form the axis for reinforcing the body. Each of the inserts includes upper and lower flanges, and a web element extending between the flanges. The web element includes trailing and leading edges, each having outer arcuate surface that are substantially semicircular in cross-section for distributing the loads applied to a bond line between the insert and the flexible non-metallic composite body during the operation of the packing element. A central rib extends between the leading and trailing edges. The replacement of metal inserts with non-metallic composite inserts eliminates sparks and scoring of string, which leads to explosions.

Abstract: A packing element for a blowout preventer includes an annular flexible non-metallic composite body disposed about a longitudinal axis that is adapted to be compressively displaced inwardly towards the axis. A plurality of non-metallic composite inserts are embedded in the body in generally circular fashion spaced apart in respective radial planes extending form the axis for reinforcing the body. Each of the inserts includes upper and lower flanges, and a web element extending between the flanges. The web element includes trailing and leading edges, each having outer arcuate surface that are substantially semicircular in cross-section for distributing the loads applied to a bond line between the insert and the flexible non-metallic composite body during the operation of the packing element. A central rib extends between the leading and trailing edges. The replacement of metal inserts with non-metallic composite inserts eliminates sparks and scoring of string, which leads to explosions.

Abstract: A method of enclosing an oil drilling rig. A first step involves providing a base and a flexible sheet-form covering having a first edge and second edge. A second step involves securing the base to the oil drilling rig and securing the first edge of the covering around a perimeter of the base. A third step involves securing the second edge of the covering to the drilling rig in spaced relation to the base, thereby maintaining the covering in a substantially taut condition forming a tubular enclosure.

Abstract: A method of enclosing an oil drilling rig. A first step involves providing a base and a flexible sheet-form covering having a first edge and second edge. A second step involves securing the base to the oil drilling rig and securing the first edge of the covering around a perimeter of the base. A third step involves securing the second edge of the covering to the drilling rig in spaced relation to the base, thereby maintaining the covering in a substantially taut condition forming a tubular enclosure.

Abstract: A modular catch pan for wellheads includes a rigid pan body consisting of two detachably coupled sections, the body having a circular opening. A plurality of split annular adaptor collars are provided. Each of the adaptor collars has the same outer diameter so that any one of them can be fitted into the circular opening. Each of the adaptor collars has an outer circumferential sealing surface adapted to form a seal with the circular opening of the body. Each of the adaptor collars has an inner circumferential sealing surface. The size of the inner circumferential sealing surface and the distance of the inner circumferential sealing surface from the outer circumferential sealing surface varies between adaptor collars. The modular catch pan can be adapted to fit any installation by selecting a suitable adaptor collar.

Abstract: An oilwell leak containment apparatus for a completed oilwell includes a body segmented into two or more segments. Each of segment has a non-mating edge and a mating edge. The non-mating edge has an upstanding containment wall. When the segments are coupled together to form the body the upstanding containment wall extends around a peripheral edge of the body and defines a liquid containment cavity. The mating edge mates with an other segments. Each mating edge has an arcuate portion. When the segments are coupled together to complete the body the arcuate portions form a circular collar. The segments are connected together with quick release couplers. It is preferred that the quick release couplers be positioned within the liquid retaining cavity for ease of access.

Abstract: A drip tray includes, in combination, a plurality of trays having a bottom and a raised peripheral sidewall extending from the bottom to define a liquid retaining enclosure. The plurality of trays are arranged in edge to edge relation to form a grid-like pattern. The trays are detachably secured together in edge to edge relation to maintain the grid-like pattern.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing environmental contamination due to fluid leakage from a wellhead. Firstly, provide an annular ring having a top surface, a bottom surface, an outer edge and a plurality of bolt receiving openings extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. Secondly, provide catch pan having a central opening. Thirdly, secure the central opening of the catch pan to the outer edge of the annular ring. Fourthly, bolt the annular ring to the wellhead by means of bolts extended through the bolt receiving openings.

Abstract: A method for retrofitting existing drilling rigs with a catch pan. Firstly, provide a pan-like body consisting of two portions. Each portion includes an interior edge having a semi-circular indentation with depending semi-cylindrical collar. Latches are provided to secure the interior edges in abutting relation with the semi-cylindrical collars mating to form a cylindrical collar. Secondly, secure the body to a flow nipple disposed below an opening in a drilling platform by positioning the semi-circular indentations with depending semi-cylindrical collars one opposed sides of the flow nipple, and using the latches means to secure the interior edges in abutting relation. Drilling fluids from the drilling platform are caught in the pan-like body and directed into the flow nipple.