Abstract: A method and logger apparatus for analyzing mud returns to determine the presence of formation hydrocarbons. The logger takes a gas sample from a gas trap formed in the mud return line, purges it of all non-helium gases either by condensing them or chemically reacting them out of the sample. The sample is then fed into a special helium mass spectrometer that identifies how much of each helium isotope (.sup.3 He and .sup.4 He) is present. This data is then fed to a correlator/computer and an isotope ratio calculated and monitored. A significant increase in this ratio is indicative of the presence of formation hydrocarbons. The computer uses additional input to track the sample vs its original downhole location to enable proper identification. The method and apparatus are particularly useful with oil-based drilling fluids.

Abstract: A cutting tool comprises a compact bundle of elongated, substantially cylindrical fibers or rods formed from a cemented metal carbide material. The bundle of fibers is shrink-fitted within a metal collar to form a long-wearing cutting tool.

Abstract: A tension leg cable is connected between a floating structure and a seafloor anchor means. The cable is a multi-strand cable having voids between adjacent strands. A fluid tight vulcanized rubber sheath is provided covering an outer surface of the cable. A fluid tight corrosion resistant tubular member surrounds said sheath so as to define an annular space between the tubular member and the sheath. Means is provided for supplying an inert gas under pressure to said voids and said annular space. Means is provided for monitoring the pressure of said inert gas in said voids and said annular space to detect changes in said pressure so as to indicate a leak in either said sheath or said tubular member. Methods of construction of said tension leg cable are also disclosed.

Abstract: A process change sensor comprising a tubing means, a first electrode positioned at one end of the tubing means for contact with a process medium, a second, permeable electrode positioned inwardly in the tubing means from said first electrode, a porous body separating said second electrode from said first electrode, means for supplying electrolyte through said tubing means to said second electrode whereby said supplied electrolyte can flow through said porous body to said first electrode, and means for measuring the change in EMF between said first and second electrodes as a result of changes in the process medium at said first electrode.

Abstract: A simple apparatus and process for monitoring a selected component of a fluid system are provided wherein the apparatus comprises a simple diffusion probe, an electronic pumping means and a reading means whereby the diffusion and pumping rate are read directly as electrical current.