Abstract: A friction sealed coupling assembly (10) for connecting sections of pipe (P1, P2) having a connecting sleeve (12) and a pair of opposed draw sleeves (14, 16). The connecting sleeve is formed of a hollow cylinder (24) having a uniform inner diameter (D2) and an outer diameter that decreases from a midpoint (M) toward each open end (26, 28) resulting in diverging external tapers (T1, T2). One of the draw sleeves is placed over each taper of the connecting sleeve, each draw sleeve having a uniform outer diameter and an inner diameter that decreases from the first end to the second end creating an inner taper. The inner wall of each draw sleeve is oppositely tapered to the corresponding connecting sleeve end. Each draw sleeve has a bolting flange formed at one end. Ends of the sections of pipe to be connected are first inserted in each end of the connecting sleeve. The opposed draw sleeves are drawn together by tightening connecting bolts (22) so the sleeves move toward each other.

Abstract: A well-head (W) having a casing (C) through which a fluid flows. Apparatus (10) for controlling the flow of fluid has an output shaft (14) insertable into a sleeve (18), sleeve (18) being insertable into the casing at its fluid outlet end (E). The sleeve extends from a hub (12) which is placeable into the outlet end of the casing and extends down into the casing. The output/draw shaft (14) extends up through the sleeve, and has a draw nut (34) and a shut-off valve (16). The valve (16) allows fluid flow through the output/draw shaft during installation of the sleeve but shuts off flow thereafter. The sleeve has a circular wall (22), defining a longitudinal bore (24) having an inner diameter (D1) which gradually increases from the upper to the lower end of the sleeve. Circular wall (22) thus has a tapering thickness along the length of the sleeve. The output/draw shaft (14) is inserted up through the sleeve and has a tapered external diameter corresponding to the internal taper of the sleeve.

Abstract: In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a method of extinguishing an oil well fire includes positioning an elongated tubular member in an upright position over the opening of the well with the lower end of the member engaging the ground to substantially contain the flame to the interior thereof and to shut off the supply of air into its lower end, and forming an earth back-fill around the lower end portion of the tubular member to shut off all supply of air into its interior.