Abstract: A dynamic sealing arrangement for connectors carrying high pressure fluids such as are used in the oil and gas industry for transferring production fluids from drilling installations to transport vessels. The sealing arrangement comprises a primary and a secondary U-shaped hydraulically operated sealing ring with open sides facing away from the junction of the connectors in the direction of the fluid leakage path. Barrier fluid under a pressure higher than that of the production fluid is supplied to the chamber between the sealing rings and independently to the open side of the secondary seal. The primary seal thus experiences a pressure differential and is activated. The secondary seal experiences a pressure differential and is activated only if the primary seal fails. Thus the secondary seal does not wear under normal usage of the connectors and is brought into operation automatically, efficiently and without delay when the primary seal is damaged. Substantial cost savings are achieved.

Abstract: A monitoring system for a fluid flow connector such as for oil or gas production flow is able to maintain the integrity of the seal at a junction between fluid conduits and generate a warning signal or activate a secondary seal in the event of main seal failure.The monitoring system of the invention is used with a hydraulic seal to which barrier fluid is supplied under pressure. The pressure of the barrier fluid is sensed at the seal and compared to the applied pressure. A drop in pressure indicates a leaking seal and a warning signal may be generated and/or a secondary seal brought into operation.The system is particularly useful when a plurality of junctions of conduits are present in a connector. Independent supplies of barrier fluid to the seals at each junction are provided so that identification of a leaking seal is accurate and timely.

Abstract: An evaporative cooling system externally mounted around an air cooled condenser to increase the rate of heat transfer. Spray cooling takes place in stages around succeeding portions of the condenser as determined by thermostats which respond to increasing condenser air discharge temperature.