Abstract: A method for concentrating salt water. Salt water is separated from oil-water mixture which has been produced from a well. Salt water is introduced into a recirculating weir and mixed with more concentrated brine. Brine is recirculated through a thermal syphon apparatus. Recirculation includes passing brine, including some salt water, from weir into boiler vessel. Brine is heated within boiler vessel to a boiling temperature whereby brine, while boiling, generates steam which passes up out of weir. All of foregoing steps are performed at atmospheric pressure. The density of brine is sensed at a location in the lower vicinity of weir. Concentrated brine is released from lower vicinity when density at sensed temperature is at a level corresponding to a brine concentration near the precipitation of salt from solution. Salt water and brine is passed through a magnetic water treating unit. The concentrated brine, as released, is passed into a holding vessel.

Abstract: A replaceable marine fender mechanism according to the present invention is adapted for connection to marine structures such as the cylindrical legs of offshore platforms to prevent vessels and other objects from impacting against the platform legs and causing damage. The fender mechanism is supported by upper and lower energy cells with the lower energy cell having a stabbing and positioning receptacle that is adapted to receive a stabbing and positioning portion defined at the lower extremity of an elongated fender post. The upper extremity of the bumper post is releasably supported by a bolted connected structure that is presented at the free extremity of an upper energy cell that is also securable to the leg structure of the offshore platform. A cylindrical fender element is receivable about the fender post and is supported by a connector element to the upper energy absorbing structure.

Abstract: A shock cell for a bumper fending off vehicles traveling adjacent a fixed structure is provided wherein an outer cylinder extends horizontally from the structure. An inner cylinder coupled to the bumper extends into the open end of the outer cylinder. An annular rubber cylinder is bonded to the inner surface of the outer cylinder and to the outer surface of the inner cylinder for a distance of the order of the diameter of the inner cylinder and with the outer and inner ends having truncated surfaces conical with reference to apexes outside the outer cylinder and inside said inner cylinder respectively. A shearable stop plate is secured inside the outer cylinder spaced inwardly from the end of the inner cylinder a distance slightly greater than the thickness of the annular body.

Abstract: A bumper assembly for fending off vessels floating adjacent a marine structure includes bumper rings having flat lower surfaces and uniquely relieved upper outer surfaces. In a further aspect, an assembly includes a spring support element at one end thereof.