Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring conditions in subterranean borehole during drilling and pullback operations in real time. The apparatus includes a drill string having a working end. A measurement system suitable for measuring at least one operational characteristic of the apparatus and having a metallic section in direct contact with the drill string is operably connected to the working end of the drill string. At least one toroid is circumferentially disposed around a first portion of the metallic section and has toroidal electrically conductive windings. A non-conductive material is disposed around the toroid whereby contact between the toroid and a subterranean environment during operation of the apparatus is precluded.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring conditions in subterranean borehole during drilling and pullback operations in real time. The apparatus includes a drill string having a working end. A measurement system suitable for measuring at least one operational characteristic of the apparatus and having a metallic section in direct contact with the drill string is operably connected to the working end of the drill string. At least one toroid is circumferentially disposed around a first portion of the metallic section and has toroidal electrically conductive windings. A non-conductive material is disposed around the toroid whereby contact between the toroid and a subterranean environment during operation of the apparatus is precluded.

Abstract: A valve box having a metallic riser and a metallic lid covering a top of the metallic riser and an electromagnetic resonator coupled to the valve box interior facing side of the metallic lid, whereby, upon generation of an eddy current in the metallic lid, a current is generated in the electromagnetic resonator. This valve box, when buried, is readily locatable and identifiable by an above-ground interrogating device.

Abstract: A valve box having a metallic riser and a metallic lid covering a top of the metallic riser and an electromagnetic resonator coupled to the valve box interior facing side of the metallic lid, whereby, upon generation of an eddy current in the metallic lid, a current is generated in the electromagnetic resonator. This valve box, when buried, is readily locatable and identifiable by an above-ground interrogating device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a fluid distribution regulator disposed in a fluid distribution system in which an intelligent controller is operatively connected to at least one fluid district regulator for controlling the district regulator. At least one intelligent low-pressure monitor is connected to the distribution system at a distance from the fluid district regulator and monitors ambient temperature and fluid pressure in the distribution system. A computer is operatively connected to the intelligent controller and the intelligent monitor and provides status checks and manual overrides of the intelligent controller and the intelligent monitor. An adaptive algorithm proximate the intelligent controller generates a prediction of fluid demand and a corresponding district regulator fluid outlet pressure setting based upon feedback from the intelligent monitor.

Abstract: A cathodic protection monitoring system for buried metal objects comprising a transponder hard-wire connected to a sacrificial anode and a reference electrode, each of the transponder, the sacrificial anode and the reference electrode being buried underground in close proximity to the buried metal object to be protected, thereby forming a first principal circuit between the sacrificial anode and the buried metal object and forming a second principal circuit between the reference electrode and the buried metal object. The system further comprises a portable transceiver disposed above ground tuned to a frequency of the transponder. Power for operation of the transponder is drawn from the cathodic protection circuit, thereby obviating the need for connections to above ground power supplies.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating and introducing an acoustic signal into a piping system, such as a natural gas distribution system. A first case is sealably secured to a second case to form a diaphragm case. A diaphragm is sealably positioned within the diaphragm case between the first case and the second case. The first case and the diaphragm define a first chamber and the second case and the diaphragm define a second chamber. The first chamber is preferably in communication with the ambient atmosphere and operates at atmospheric pressure. The diaphragm case is one component of a pressure regulator that has an inlet and an outlet for connecting the pressure regulator within a piping system. The pressure regulator regulates fluid pressure within the piping system, downstream from the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator has a valve plug and a valve stem connected to the valve plug. An opposite end of the valve stem is connected to the diaphragm.

Abstract: A pipe worm comprises radially inflatable toroids spaced along an axially inflatable tubular body. The worm inches through piping through sequential inflation and deflation of the toroids and tubular body. The worm includes a fluid supply source, pipe maintenance instrumentation and automatic, semiautomatic or manual controls which are remote, on-board or trailered, as desired. The worm is inexpensive, reliable, capable of turning 90 degree corners, and further uniquely advantageous.