Abstract: Return flow diverters are provided for which are adapted to allow return flow during cementing of a liner for a well. The return flow diverter comprises a cylindrical body adapted for installation in a well as part of the liner. The cylindrical body has a fluid port therein adapted to allow fluids displaced by a cementing operation to flow from an annulus between the liner and the well into the cylindrical body. The return flow diverter also comprises a cover supported on the cylindrical body for movement from an open position, in which the port is open, to a closed position, in which the port is closed by the cover, a transmission disposed within the cylindrical body and defining a cylindrical passageway adapted to accommodate a tubular conduit.

Abstract: Anchor assemblies for installation within an existing conduit. The anchor assemblies have a nondeformable mandrel, an expandable metal sleeve, and a swage. The expandable metal sleeve is carried on the outer surface of the mandrel. The swage is supported for axial movement across the mandrel outer surface from a first position axially proximate to the sleeve to a second position under the sleeve. The movement of the swage from the first position to the second position expands the sleeve radially outward into contact with the existing conduit.

Abstract: Return flow diverters are provided for which are adapted to allow return flow during cementing of a liner for a well. The return flow diverter comprises a cylindrical body adapted for installation in a well as part of the liner. The cylindrical body has a fluid port therein adapted to allow fluids displaced by a cementing operation to flow from an annulus between the liner and the well into the cylindrical body. The return flow diverter also comprises a cover supported on the cylindrical body for movement from an open position, in which the port is open, to a closed position, in which the port is closed by the cover, a transmission disposed within the cylindrical body and defining a cylindrical passageway adapted to accommodate a tubular conduit.

Abstract: Novel hydraulic actuators and hydraulic setting assemblies are provided for use in downhole, oil and gas well tools. The novel hydraulic actuators include a cylindrical mandrel and an annular stationary sealing member connected to the mandrel. A hydraulic cylinder is slidably supported on the mandrel and stationary sealing member and is releasably fixed in position on the mandrel. The stationary sealing member divides the interior of the cylinder into a bottom hydraulic chamber and a top hydraulic chamber. An inlet port provides fluid communication into the bottom hydraulic chamber, and an outlet port provides fluid communication into the top hydraulic chamber. A balance piston is slidably supported within the top hydraulic chamber of the actuator. The piston includes an axially extending passageway. Fluid communication through the piston and between its upper and lower sides is controlled by a normally shut valve in the passageway.

Abstract: Novel anchor assemblies are provided for installation within an existing conduit. They comprise a nondeformable mandrel, an expandable metal sleeve, and a swage. The expandable metal sleeve is carried on the outer surface of the mandrel. The swage is supported for axial movement across the mandrel outer surface from a first position axially proximate to the sleeve to a second position under the sleeve. The movement of the swage from the first position to the second position expands the sleeve radially outward into contact with the existing conduit.

Abstract: Novel hydraulic actuators and hydraulic setting assemblies are provided for use in downhole, oil and gas well tools. The novel hydraulic actuators include a cylindrical mandrel and an annular stationary' sealing member connected to the mandrel. A hydraulic cylinder is slidably supported on the mandrel and stationary sealing member and is releasably fixed in position on the mandrel. The stationary sealing member divides the interior of the cylinder into a bottom hydraulic chamber and a top hydraulic chamber. An inlet port provides fluid communication into the bottom hydraulic chamber, and an outlet port provides fluid communication into the top hydraulic chamber. A balance piston is slidably supported within the top hydraulic chamber of the actuator. The piston includes an axially extending passageway. Fluid communication through the piston and between its upper and lower sides is controlled by a normally shut valve in the passageway.