Abstract: A metal-to-metal sealing pipe swivel joint especially useful with a subsea well completion system to pivotally interconnect the subsea wellhead to a lay-away flowline, the swivel joint having an annular seal element with metallic sealing surfaces and inner and outer tubular elements, also with metallic sealing surfaces, that can be moved into or withdrawn from sealing engagement with the seal element sealing surfaces.

Abstract: Apparatus for protecting subsea structures, and in particular christmas trees from damage by fishing nets, trawl boards, anchors and other marine equipment, include a protective structure which is placed over the christmas tree. The protective structure has an opening in the top portion to allow access to the christmas tree when such access is needed and a protective cap which closes the opening to prevent damage from silt, sand, trash and overhead falling objects. The entire protective structure is secured in place by one or more piles which are driven into the sea floor or by cementing one or more steel piles in place in the sea floor. The protective structure and the cap are guided into place around the well by guide cables attached to the guide base of the well. A lifting device in the protective cap facilitates removal of the cap by a single cable.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for running, operating, and retrieving packoffs, bowl protectors, casing heads, casing hangers, and other well tools employed in drilling and completing subsea wells. Broadly considered, the method involves running the well tool and a special running and retrieving tool to which it is releasably connected into the well by means of a drill or other pipe string and then pressurizing the wellhead through the choke and kill lines to actuate the running and retrieving tool and release it from the well tool for subsequent retrieval and re-use. Various embodiments of the running and retrieving tool are described.