Abstract: The invention concerns down-hole apparatus for use especially in casing cementing operations wherein a so-called string of casing is lowered into a well bore and cemented in place. The apparatus comprises an insert, disposed across the interior of the casing, containing a spring loaded flapper valve assembly which is held open by a movable valve seating member until a ball is seated in the seating member and pressure applied through the casing to the sealed valve seating member forces the seating member downward, releasing the flapper valve, and expands the lower end of the seating member as the ball is forced through it. On release of the casing pressure from above, the flapper valve closes.A plurality of the inventive devices may be placed along the casing, the ball valve sealing each, in turn, from top to bottom.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved cementing basket for use in cementing the borehole of oil wells or gas wells. In some of the conventional cementing baskets metal slats are used to form the rigid part of the basket petals. The basket of this invention utilizes a wire loop, such as steel spring wire, for the rigid member of the basket petal.