Abstract: A box protector 21 for protecting the inner surface of a box 11 of a threaded joint for pipes having a female threaded portion and a shoulder surface 14 with the shoulder surface being sloped by an angle ? with respect to the direction perpendicular to the pipe axis has a male threaded portion 22 which threadingly engages with at least a portion of the complete threads of the female threaded portion of the box and a shoulder surface 21b which sealingly contacts the shoulder surface 14 of the box to form a first seal portion, and the shoulder surface 21b is sloped by an angle ?P (?P>?) with respect to the direction perpendicular to the pipe axis. The protector has a circumferential groove 30 in its outer peripheral surface in the vicinity of the shoulder surface 21b and an elastic seal ring 28 which contacts the shoulder surface 14 of the box 11 and forms a second seal portion.

Abstract: A protector for protecting a pipe thread having a thread pitch P1 has a central axis, a first end, second end opposite the first end, and comprises a base at the first end. In addition, the protector comprises an annular connecting member extending axially from the base to the second end. The connecting member has a radially inner surface and a radially outer surface. The connecting member also includes a helical thread extending radially outward from the radially inner surface or radially inward from the radially outer surface. The helical thread has a thread pitch P2 that is greater than the thread pitch P1 of the pipe thread.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a durable, lightweight lifting member and assembly for use in handling elongated members. One embodiment comprises a cage or net made of a flexible material, the cage or net being adapted to receive one end of an elongated member. Another embodiment is characterized by a flexible lifting member constructed of a pliable, non-metallic material and comprising a body portion, an end portion, and a lifting strap.