Abstract: A protected swivel has first and second members connected in swiveling engagement and a sleeve overlaying and enclosing at least a portion of each of the first and second members. The sleeve is coupled in sealing engagement with the first member to swivel with the first member. A first seal is interposed between the sleeve and the second member for sealing engagement of the sleeve with the first member. A second seal extends between the first member and the second member. The second seal may include a barrier layer of a viscous material. A swivel bearing is interposed between the first and second swivel members, with the second seal extending between the bearing and the second swivel member.

Abstract: A torque transmitting mating component for a mating assembly which, during assembly, provides at least one degree of freedom of movement selected from radial, axial and angular movement comprises an outer member, an inner member and torque transmitting elements located between the outer and inner members. The outer member has a chamber extending inwardly from one end thereof which has a polygon-shaped cross-sectional configuration. The inner member is located within the chamber of said outer member and has external side faces which are arranged to provide a polygon-shaped cross-sectional configuration corresponding to that of the chamber. The inner member is substantially smaller than the opening and the outer member so as to provide a clearance gap between the side walls and the external side faces.

Abstract: A hydrocarbon stream containing particulate and water-soluble compound is purified by admixture therewith of an aqueous solution followed by electrostatic precipitation of the aqueous and particulate phases from the hydrocarbon phase. The aqueous phase is separated from the particulate phase and recycled. Preferably, the aqueous phase is fractionated recovering methanol overhead and recycling a portion of the kettle product containing primarily water and not more than 20 volume percent ethylene glycol.