Abstract: The invention is directed to a locking mechanism for locking a tool to an anchor seat located in the tubing of a well, the locking mechanism comprising keys which are radially movable relative to the axis of the tool, the keys emerging via apertures in the body of the tool to engage in a groove of an anchor seat located in the well conduit. The groove of the anchor seat has an internal diameter smaller than the internal diameter of the well conduit. Each key is axially movable within the aperture between a high position and a low position. Structure is provided for retaining the keys in the high position, positioning the keys in a radially retracted position, so that the keys do not cause the tool to be secured in the anchor seat. Structure is also provided for positioning the keys in a radially extended position, causing the keys to contact the groove of the anchor seat, thereby locking the tool to the anchor seat.

Abstract: In accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention, a new and improved subsea test tree includes a hydraulically operable control unit and shut-in valve unit that are releasably latched together. The control unit includes an integral retainer valve system at the upper end thereof. The main shut-in valve, which is a ball valve, is a fail-close device under the influence of a spring and nitrogen pressure. Additional assistance in closing the valve may be provided if needed by hydraulic pressure applied to a surface control line. Internal pressure may be vented prior to unlatching the control unit in case of an emergency.

Abstract: A ball element pivotally mounted on a sleeve that slides within the tubular valve member of a well safety valve has a radial slot extending across its width parallel to and offset from its pivotal axis. A bar extending in secant fashion across the valve member engages the slot, rotating the ball element to open and close the valve as the sleeve slides back and forth. An unslotted outer surface portion of the ball element mates with the valve seat during valve closing.

Abstract: Disclosed is a plug valve comprising displacement means (5) allowing equalization of upstream and downstream pressures existing on the plug (3), said equalization means being applied before the plug has been moved.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hydraulic method and apparatus for the remote hydraulic control of a device connected to a hydraulic fluid source by means of at least one flexible line filled with hydraulic fluid.Hydraulic energy is accumulated in the flexible line by increasing the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the line so that the line increases in volume. The pressure is maintained in the line so that the hydraulic energy thus accumulated by the expansive deformation of the line may be used rapidly to control the device.The invention finds particular application in the control of an underwater valve in the petroleum industry.

Abstract: In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention as disclosed herein, a wireline pulling and running tool can be preset at the surface by simple adjustment for functioning as either a pulling or a running tool, and for release from an associated hanger mandrel by jarring either upwardly or downwardly. A tubular support that carries pivotally mounted gripping elements which are yieldably urged toward disengaged position, has a control body movably mounted therein. The control body has a plurality of sets of circumferentially spaced recess means than can be selectively aligned with the gripping members to enable release thereof in response to vertical movement of the control body from an initial upper or lower position where the body is releasably fixed to the support by a shear pin.