Abstract: A serial element of a load lifting line has a telescoping body held in a short configuration by a linear slip clutch until a selected load on the line is exceeded. The slip clutch then allows the body to extend to a longer configuration in which it is retained as a length unit by abutting surfaces between which an elastomeric shock cushion is positioned. An optional arrangement includes a biasing provision to restore the link to the original condition, for further use, after the load is reduced. By utilizing optional provisions, the link can signal the overload condition by a whistle when the telescoping body extends. Visible signals can, optionally, be provided by members that extend from the body when the body is telescoped to the longer condition.

Abstract: A safety fuse link, usable as a serial element of a load lifting line, has a telescoping body held in a short configuration by a linear slip clutch or a shear pin until a selected load on the line is exceeded. The body then extends to a longer configuration in which it is retained as a length unit by abutting surfaces between which an blastomeric shock cushion is positioned. An optional arrangement includes a biasing arrangement to restore the link to the original condition for further use, after the load is reduced.

Abstract: A backup tong having an inner throat sized to accommodate a second pipe string while a first pipe string is held within the jaws of the tong is disclosed. The inventive backup tong facilitates operations on dual pipe strings by allowing the tong to grip not only the closer of two pipe strings, but also the farther of the pipe strings by allowing the nearer pipe string to reside in an inner throat of the backup tong, between the gripping members of the tong and the body of the backup tong, while the farther pipe string is held between the gripping members. The inventive backup tong thereby allows the operator to grip either of the pipe strings from a single side, eliminating the side-to-side movement (and corresponding time and risk of harm) which is required when using prior art backup tongs.