Abstract: A water supply line includes a cylindrical and ductile outer tube that has a centrally aligned axis. An inner tube is concentrically spaced about the axis of the outer tube and has a length coextensively sized therewith. The inner tube is equidistantly spaced inward from the outer tube, defining a cavity therebetween. Fingers are intercalated between the inner and outer tubes and seated within the cavity. The fingers extend outward from the inner tube and are positioned along the entire length of the tubes, defining isolated air chambers which act as a thermal blanket, preventing cold air from passing into and hot air from exiting the inner tube. A coupling is provided with a bore and is in fluid communication with the inner tube and conjoinable therewith. The coupling has an outer surface provided with barbs such that the coupling can be connected to the inner tube.

Abstract: A line system (1) for fluids having volatile components, which comprises at least one fluid line (2,3,4), each having a separate inlet (10) and outlet (11), the fluid lines (2,3,4) being enclosed by a first line wall (12) and extending jointly over a section (A) of the line system (1) close-fitting to one another, but being separated from one another at least by the first line wall (12) over the entire length of the fluid lines (2,3,4). The line system (1) is implemented as a plastic hollow profile at least over the section (A) and comprises a further fluid line (8), which is enclosed by a second line wall (13), and comprises one or more line chambers (8?,8??), which are at least partially separated from one another by support webs (7), whose totality at least essentially encloses the fluid lines (2,3,4). In addition, the first and second line walls (12,13) and the support webs (7) of the plastic hollow profile being implemented from the same polymer material.

Abstract: An apparatus for distributing a fluid is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of conduits and outlet ports that are capable of providing improved distribution of fluids. One or more conduits are arranged within a single conduit, which provides a compact and inexpensive assembly for conveying the fluids to each conduit's outlet port.

Abstract: The invention is a first colorless and chemically-inert tubing concentrically adhered to an outer colored and chemically-inert tubing such that the inner tubing remains entirely chemically inert while the jacket tubing provides color coding as to first colorless tubing inner diameter. A co-extruder to concurrently and concentrically produce a first colorless and chemically-inert tubing concentric and a colored and chemically-inert jacket tubing such that the two tubings are adhered together at the instant of production is also provided.

Abstract: A thermoplastic pipe liner assembly and method for installation in a pipeline by pulling the pipe liner assembly through the pipeline in a temporarily folded condition wherein the thermoplastic pipe liner assembly has a core inner liner, an outer liner with optional grooving for annular communication, orbitally wound strength and intermediate layers, two or more tension deformation members to sustain the tension needed to pull the pipe liner assembly through the pipeline for several miles and to assist in maintaining the temporarily folded condition. Also included are optional instrumentation circuits. Also disclosed is a method for the manufacture of the pipe liner assembly and concurrent installation in a pipeline.

Abstract: An energy attenuation device for a conduit that is adapted to convey a pressurized fluid therethrough, comprising a hose section disposed about a portion of the conduit, wherein such conduit portion is provided with at least one aperture, for example in a surface thereof, and wherein in a non-pressurized state of the conduit, the hose section rests against the portion of the conduit over essentially the entire length of such portion.

Abstract: The invention concerns a double-sheath rigid pipe for transporting hydrocarbons consisting of two respectively inner (2) and outer (3) coaxial tubes separated by an annular gap (5), said pipe being adapted to be wound and comprising a device limiting the propagation of a deformation occurring on the outer tube, wherein a radial stop device (10) linked to the inner tube (2) but not linked to the outer tube (3) allows a localized collapse of value G of the outer tube, G being selected to stop the propagation of a deformation of the outer tube (3).

Abstract: A lightweight and compact super-insulation system that is also capable of supporting a high level of compressive load. The system utilizes spacers to provide structural support and utilize controlled buckling of a thin protective outer skin supported by spacers to form strong catenary surfaces to protect insulation material underneath. The spacers may comprise an aerogel, or an aerogel may provide insulation separate from the spacer yet contained within the thin outer skin.

Abstract: An integrated casing spacer and joint restraint unit is attached to each of a pair of pipe sections adjacent to an end-to-end connection of the pipe sections by means of first and second spacer/retainer ring members. Disposed on the outer periphery of each ring member in a spaced manner are plural risers each having a respective runner disposed on its outer end for engaging an inner surface of an outer casing and maintaining fixed spacing between the inner pipe sections and the outer casing. Plural paired risers, with one riser disposed on each ring member, are aligned with one another along the axis of the connected pipe sections and are each adapted for secure connection to a respective connecting rod for securely coupling the two ring members together and restraining relative movement between the two pipe sections.

Abstract: In a flexible pipe having shape retaining capabilities, a first pipe is provided having a first base wire and a first subsidiary wire, the first base wire being wound in a spiral manner, the first subsidiary wire externally covering the first base wire and being fit into an external valley of the first base wire, and a second pipe having a second base wire and a second subsidiary wire, the second base wire being wound in a spiral manner in an opposite direction from the first base wire, the second subsidiary wire externally covering the second base wire and being fit into an external valley of the second base wire. The second pipe being provided inside and in contact with the first pipe. When a torsional force is applied to the first pipe, the second pipe generates a bearing force against the torsional force.

Abstract: The present invention involves a method and apparatus for communicating from within a wellbore to the surface of the wellbore, as well as communicating from the surface of the wellbore to downhole within the wellbore. More specifically, the present invention involves a method and apparatus for protecting and controlling cables or lines which connect surface equipment to downhole equipment. A spacer sub comprising a tubular body with a helical groove therearound is used to house one or more downhole cables. In one aspect, the spacer sub has a recess within the helical groove for housing one or more cable connectors. In another aspect, multiple helical grooves are disposed around the spacer sub to protect and house cables of different length.

Abstract: For fixing a catalytic body, which has a cylindrical case and is housed in an exhaust pipe, to the exhaust pipe that serves as part of an exhaust system connected to an engine. The catalytic body can be housed in and fixed to the exhaust pipe even if the catalytic body and the exhaust pipe are made of different materials, thus increasing the freedom in choosing materials for the case of the catalytic body and the exhaust pipe. A bracket, which is made of the same material as an exhaust pipe, is welded to an inner circumferential surface of the exhaust pipe. The bracket is crimped on the case of the catalytic body.

Abstract: A synthetic resin pipe insert for insertion in an existing pipe or for use in the manufacture of new pipe to form a multi-channel pipe. The insert has a curved cross sectional configuration which defines a segment of a circle with a convexly curved radially outer wall and a concavely curved radially inner wall and a plurality of radial walls extending between the curved, radially inner and outer walls to form at least two linear channels. A curved inner pipe member may optionally be fitted against the concavely curved radially inner wall. The pipe insert of the invention facilitates multiple utility connections, such as cable TV and sewer, in a single pipe assembly.

Abstract: A coil tubing or jointed dual wall drill string assembly for subsurface drilling. The drill string assembly includes a metallic outer tube having an outer tube first end and an outer tube second end opposite the outer tube first end. The assembly also includes a flexible, substantially non-metallic inner tube that is substantially enclosed within and generally coaxially aligned with the outer tube. The flexible, substantially non-metallic inner tube has an inner tube first end, an inner tube second end opposite the inner tube first end, and an inner tube inner diameter. The inner tube and the outer tube define an annular channel therebetween. The drill string assembly also includes a means for conveying fluid through the annular channel toward the inner tube first end. The annular channel is adapted to convey drilling fluid under pressure toward the inner tube first end and the inner tube is adapted to convey cuttings toward the inner tube second end.

Abstract: A method of forming a jacketed steam distribution tube assembly includes simultaneously extruding an inner tube, an outer tube, and a plurality of connecting members for connecting the inner tube to the outer tube, thereby forming a jacketed steam distribution tube assembly.

Abstract: An arrangement to increase the thermal fatigue resistance of glass tubes having fluid flowing therethrough and being pressure-loaded. This arrangement comprises a glass tube, into which an interior component is inserted. The interior component can be designed as thin-walled tube or tubular component. In accordance with a first example the cavity enclosed by the interior component is hydraulically connected with the interior of the glass tube. The wall thickness of the interior component is smaller than the wall thickness of the glass tube and the interior component is partially free from a direct heat connection with the glass tube. In accordance with a second example the interior component increases the wall thickness of the glass tube. In this case the interior component is touching the interior circumference of the glass tube.

Abstract: The fluid transfer apparatus has an outer composite body having end sealing lips that are adapted to sealingly engage the surface surrounding the spaced passages between which fluid is to be transferred. The transfer apparatus has a central member having a uniform cross section adapted to transfer fluid between these passages and also has two end members which engage within and align with the passages to permit continued fluid transfer in view of slight longitudinal misalignments of the first and second passages.

Abstract: An insulating apparatus for use with vacuum insulated tubing sting to reduce heat loss through the joints, where the apparatus includes an insulator adapted to surround the joint and a latching joint protector adapted to surround the insulator and hold the insulator against the joint, where the protector also includes a channel for receiving injection and/or control tubing. The insulator is capable of reducing heat loss through the joints of a vacuum insulated tubing string by as much as 95%.

Abstract: To provide a thermal insulation piping with no radially projecting part from a periphery thereof, so as to facilitate insertion of the thermal insulation piping into a pipeline or equivalent. In a thermal insulation tube 10 having a vacuum layer between an inner tube 11 and an outer tube 12, an evacuation port 30 for vacuum evacuation is oriented parallel with a longitudinal direction of the thermal insulation piping at an end of the thermal insulation tube 10. This construction can produce the thermal insulation tube 10 with no radially projecting part from a periphery thereof, thus providing improved workability when the thermal insulation piping is contained in the pipeline or equivalent. Further, a flexible pipe(s) 40 is/are preferably connected to the evacuation port(s) 30. This can allow increased positional tolerances in the connection of the evacuation port(s) to a vacuum evacuation device.

Abstract: A paint conduit has a jacket surrounding an interior and a hose arranged in the interior of the jacket. At least one end member is attached to a first end of the jacket and secures a first end of the hose in the jacket. The at least one end member has an end member section inserted between the jacket and the hose. The first end of the hose is at least as long as the jacket within the at least one end member. The hose extends through the at least one end member and an insert is inserted into the first end of the hose and presses the hose radially against the at least one end member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus for use in venting pipelines that have a plastic lining such as these used for transporting hydrocarbon fluids. A pipeline assembly comprises a pipeline (2), a corrosion resistance liner (3), and a micro-annulus (4) located between said pipeline and liner. The pipeline assembly also comprises a venting means (5) adapted for fitment in or through the corrosion resistance liner (3), wherein the venting means (5) allows gas to flow from the micro-annulus into the center of the pipeline assembly but not in the opposing direction.

Abstract: A double pipe has an outer pipe and an inner pipe that is formed in a spiral or wavy configuration and is held by an inner circumferential face of the outer pipe.

Abstract: A marina pipe includes a flexible conduit resistant to mechanical stresses, the conduit adapted to surround the secondarily contained flexible piping. The conduit comprises a metallic core and a thermoplastic jacket. The secondarily contained flexible piping comprises an inner supply pipe, wherein the inner pipe is comprised of a first, inner layer fabricated from nylon, a second, intermediate layer comprising a nylon reinforced wrap, and a third, outer layer comprising a polyethylene material, the nylon inner material, the nylon wrap and the polyethylene outer layer being extruded simultaneously to form the inner pipe.

Abstract: A method of dampening fluid-borne noise in an automotive power steering system in accordance with a presently preferred embodiment of the invention contemplates provision of a power steering fluid hose having a laminated inner tube surrounded by a reinforcing outer tube. The inner tube has a resilient inner layer with a radial thickness T1 and a resilient outer layer with a radial thickness T2. The inner layer is softer than the outer layer and is bonded by vulcanization to the outer layer. The radial thicknesses T1 and T2 have a ratio selected to dampen fluid-borne noise within a preselected frequency range by elastic expansion of the inner and outer layers.

Abstract: When hydroforming a steel pipe, a tubular deformation assisting member made of an incompressible material softer than the steel pipe is fitted on the outer peripheral surface of the steel pipe. The deformation assisting member is attached at least to an area corresponding to a projection provided at the inner surface of the die assembly, the projection being earliest brought into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the steel pipe during hydroforming. When hydroforming the steel pipe, the material of the deformation assisting member plastically flows near corner portions at which the deformation assisting member is brought into contact with the projection.

Abstract: A protective sleeve system for use by plumbers during installation of riser pipes in buildings, surrounds a pipe and maintains a space around the pipe. A sleeve surrounds the pipe such that a space is defined between the pipe and the sleeve and a plurality of spacers disposed between the sleeve and the pipe, maintain the space between the pipe and the sleeve. The plurality of spacers are separate from the sleeve. An annular cover ring covers the annular space. In use, the protective sleeve system is installed prior to pouring the concrete floor. After pouring and setting of the concrete floor, the cover ring is removed, followed by the removal of the spacers. The sleeve is then cut to floor level and the pipe riser is cut down to a suitable level.

Abstract: A fail safe secondary containment system for a cryogenic liquid transport pipeline spool having a mainline liquid transport pipe and a secondary containment pipe which overlies the mainline liquid transport pipe and is affixed to the outer surface of the mainline liquid transport pipe to form a sealed annular containment space therebetween, has a cap mounted on the secondary containment pipe to provide a sealed tertiary space. A first check valve has an inlet connected to the secondary containment space for receiving fluid therefrom and an outlet connected to the tertiary containment space and a second check valve has an inlet connected to the tertiary containment space for receiving fluid therefrom and an outlet connected to the inside of the mainline liquid transport pipe.

Abstract: A flue liner insert with individually adjustable sides, which can be used to fasten to, extend and join two rectangular masonry clay flue tiles. Specifically, this flue liner insert fits into the interior of a clay tile and allows adjustable fastening to existing masonry clay tiles in a manner that can withstand common loads and also not interfere with the chimney draft. This flue liner insert can be used to extend masonry chimneys, join clay flue tiles, anchor ceramic chimney pots, partially or fully line existing chimneys, and mount standard or integrated chimney caps.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for pneumatic or hydraulic conveying of dusty, powdery or granular bulk material. The device includes a conveyor line, an inner pipe in the conveyor line that is parallel to the axis and preferably eccentric. The inner pipe has openings at intervals and flow resistors within itself, which have an upstream side plane and a downstream side plane in the region of the openings. As a result, outlet openings into the conveyor line and entrance openings into the inner pipe are formed for the conveying medium, characterized in that the upstream side plane forms an angle (?)<90° with the axis (14) of the inner pipe (2) and deflects the striking conveying stream towards the outlet opening (20, 20a, 20b).

Abstract: A flexible hose for use as a refrigerant passageway in a vehicular refrigerating cycle has an inner hose and an outer hose. The outer hose covers the inner hose with a space formed in a given distance. The outer hose and the inner hose are formed of resin having flexibility.

Abstract: A pipe for the transport of fluids, which pipe is internally provided with a liner, wherein the liner is provided with at least one non-return valve arranged in the liner wall, wherein the non-return valve has an inlet end arranged near the outer surface of the liner wall and an outlet end arranged near the inner surface of the liner wall.

Abstract: A tubular insulating apparatus (10) for insulating a first tubular (8) within a second tubular (20) for use in the oil and gas exploration and production industry. An inner insulating member (4) surrounds the outer circumference of a pipeline (8) and a rigid spacer member (16) supports the pipeline (8) within the second tubular (20), the rigid spacer member (16) being provided at the ends of the apparatus (10). A substantially resilient member (2) is also provided on the outer most face of the inner insulating member (4) and a helically arranged cut (6) is provided therethrough in order to allow tensile and compressive forces caused by a bending moment acting along the longitudinal axis (14) of the apparatus (10) when e.g. the pipeline (8) is placed upon a reel, to be substantially relieved. Methods of manufacturing and installing the apparatus (10) are also provided.

Abstract: A rotary holder for a corrugated tube is structured such that an inner rotary body containing a corrugated tube is received in an inner portion of an outer fixing body, and an outer peripheral sliding surface of the inner rotary body slides along an inner sliding surface of the outer fixing body. The outer fixing body is formed by assembling a base member and a cover each having a recessed arch surface on an inner periphery thereof. The inner sliding surface is formed by connecting a recessed arch surface of the base member to a recessed arch surface of the cover. Further, outer retracting surfaces are respectively provided to both end portions of the recessed arch surface of the base member so as to be extended to a tangential direction thereat.

Abstract: A length adjustable conduit has a hollow tubular body and a hollow tubular shaft coaxially disposed in fluid tight communication with the hollow tubular body. The conduit further includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the combined length of the tubular body and tubular shaft.

Abstract: A flexible pipe for transporting a fluid comprising an outer sealing polymer sheath, at least a pair of armor wraps helically and long-pitch wound, and a polymer pressure sheath. The pressure sheath consists of an inner tube arranged in an outer tube, and grooves are arranged on at least one of the surfaces opposite the inner and outer tubes.

Abstract: A thermally insulated pipeline assembly comprises an inner pipe surrounded by and spaced from a jacket, which is in turn surrounded by and spaced from an outer casing. The annular space between the inner pipe and the jacket is substantially filled with thermal insulating material such as open cell polyurethane foam, which is preferably injected into the jacket and cured in situ. The space between the jacket and the outer casing may be filled with pressurized gas. The jacket may have apertures to allow the gas access to the annular insulated space. The arrangement provides improved thermal insulation, particularly when the casing is pressurized, by reducing thermal transfer by convection between the inner pipe and the outer casing. The arrangement is also applicable to pipeline bundles, with a plurality of inner pipes each having an associated jacket and insulation, all surrounded by a common casing.

Abstract: A pipe structure includes a double pipe having a resin inner pipe and a resin outer pipe covering an outside of the inner pipe, and a discharge mechanism for discharging fluid in a space between the inner pipe and the outer pipe. The double pipe is used in a vacuum chamber having a vacuum atmosphere.

Abstract: An exhaust pipe includes first and second length portions, each having an outer pipe and an inner pipe positioned relative to one another to define an annular gap therebetween. The length portions are placed in confronting disposition with their adjacent first ends interconnected for relative movement in a longitudinal direction. An end piece of the outer pipe of the first length portion is disposed in surrounding relationship to an end piece of the outer pipe of the second length portion at interposition of an end portion of the inner pipe of the first length portion, wherein the end pieces of the outer pipes of the first and second length portions and the end portion of the inner pipe of the first length portion are positioned for relative movement in the longitudinal direction, so as to define a triple sliding fit.

Abstract: The cryogenic rotary coupling comprises segments of a cryogenic line that are capable of turning relative to each other about a pivot axis of the rotary coupling. Radial retaining elements and axial retaining elements define the pivot axis of the rotary coupling. One of the segments comprises a vacuum-insulated double-walled female portion and the other segment comprises a vacuum-insulated double-walled male portion engaged at least in part in the female portion. A first sealing gasket is interposed between a free end of the male portion engaged in the female portion and one of the retaining means. A second sealing gasket is interposed between a free end of the female portion surrounding the male portion and the other one of the retaining elements. A heater device is disposed in the vicinity of the second gasket.

Abstract: For the purpose of repairing supply lines such as a waste-water pipe, a plastic hose has been developed which, in the clear state, has a diameter which is the same size as, or larger than, the diameter of the pipe in which it is to be inserted. This plastic hose is used to fix optical or electric cables against the inner wall of the pipe. For this purpose, the plastic hose is introduced into the waste-water pipe in a collapsed state, together with the cable, and is released when the desired positioning has been reached. The collapsed plastic hose will then regain its original shape and thereby fix the cable against the inner wall of the waste-water pipe.

Abstract: A conduit for the transport of cryogenic media, in particular a superconducting cable, includes at least two metal pipes arranged concentrically and spaced apart from one another, an insulation layer being situated in the annular gap between the metal pipes and the annular gap being evacuated. The exterior of the metal pipe (4) is separated at predetermined intervals and above each opening a pump connector (10) is welded vacuum-tight to the outer metal pipe (4).

Abstract: A fluid conduit wall enclosing a hollow interior for the flow of fluid includes an outer surface provided with a low emissivity coating having a coating emissivity of less than 0.2 and a thickness at least sufficient to provide the coating emissivity. One embodiment provides a fluid conduit with multiple spaced-apart walls. An outer surface of an inner wall of a first member and an inner surface of an outer wall of a second member define a gap therebetween. At least one of such surfaces includes the low emissivity coating. A method for providing such coating deposits the coating, for example by reactive vaporization, concurrently on both surfaces from within the gap after assembly of the members.

Abstract: A fluid line assembly is disclosed that includes an outer fluid line and an inner fluid line disposed substantially within the outer fluid line. The inner and outer fluid lines each include a slip joint. In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the slip joints includes a reservoir in communication with the interior of the corresponding fluid line. Among other things, the reservoir is suitable for receiving fluid from the corresponding fluid line as the fluid line assembly is contracted and expelling fluid into the corresponding fluid line as the fluid line assembly is extended. In another embodiment of the invention, the inner and outer fluid lines include a ball joint assembly.

Abstract: A fluid vent (26) for venting fluid from the annulus between the inner surface of a rigid conduit (20) and the outer surface of a conduit liner (10). The fluid vent (26) consists of a length of rigid conduit (34) containing a multiplicity of apertures (32) extending through the wall of the conduit and arranged in an annular pattern around the circumference of conduit (34). The fluid vent (26) further comprises means defining a closed annular volume (36) extending around the exterior circumference of the conduit (34) and interconnecting the outer ends of the apertures (32) with at least one fluid outlet passage (40) located on the exterior of the conduit (34) and communicating with said annular volume (36). The fluid vent can be used to expel water or other liquids from the annular space when retro-fitting a liner to a conduit, venting gas which has permeated through the lining into the annulus, or for assisting in the movement of fluid through the annulus.

Abstract: A tuning cable assembly comprising a reinforced tube, a tuning cable placed within said reinforced tube, where the tuning cable is comprised of a thermoset material or a cross-linked thermoplastic material, and a narrow annular cavity formed between the inner surface of the reinforced tube and the outer surface of the tuning cable. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. This abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: A method of operating a cell for electrowinning of copper, the cell including a plurality of anodes and cathodes therein, the method including the steps of introducing fresh electrolyte and sparging gas to a manifold system in the cell, controlling flow of fresh electrolyte and sparging gas in the manifold system and providing outlet openings in the manifold system such that streams of fresh electrolyte and sparging gas from the outlet openings are directed relatively uniformly across the cathodes in the cell.

Abstract: A small-diameter part in the vicinity of a center of a bellows portion in an axial direction has a smaller diameter. A tip end of the small-diameter part contacts at a point A with an outer peripheral face of an interlock pipe. The interlock pipe vibrates with using the point A and points B in both ends as fulcrums. The addition of the point A reduces distance between the fulcrums. In accordance with this reduction, deflection amount of the interlock pipe is reduced and vibration amplitude of the interlock pipe is decreased. Therefore, the interlock pipe does not contact with the bellows portion so that troubles such as noises can be prevented from occurring.

Abstract: A flexible conduit for conveying cryogenic fluids has a metal inner tube and a metal outer tube. A strip-shaped spacer member is made of a material of low thermal conductivity, which is spirally wound on the inner tube such that it contacts both the inner and outer tubes. The strip-shaped spacer member is twisted about its own axis and includes a metal that is stable with respect to high-energy radiation and has a thermal conductivity of less than 25 W/m.K and a tensile strength of more than 240 MPa.

Abstract: A fluid conduit wall enclosing a hollow interior for the flow of fluid includes an outer surface provided with a low emissivity coating having a coating emissivity of less than 0.2 and a thickness at least sufficient to provide the coating emissivity. One embodiment provides a fluid conduit with multiple spaced-apart walls. An outer surface of an inner wall of a first member and an inner surface of an outer wall of a second member define a gap therebetween. At least one of such surfaces includes the low emissivity coating. A method for providing such coating deposits the coating, for example by reactive vaporization, concurrently on both surfaces from within the gap after assembly of the members.

Abstract: A protective sleeve system for use by plumbers during installation of riser pipes in buildings, surrounds a pipe and maintains a space around the pipe. A sleeve surrounds the pipe such that a space is defined between the pipe and the sleeve and a plurality of spacers disposed between the sleeve and the pipe, maintain the space between the pipe and the sleeve. The plurality of spacers are separate from the sleeve. An annular cover ring covers the annular space. In use, the protective sleeve system is installed prior to pouring the concrete floor. After pouring and setting of the concrete floor, the cover ring is removed, followed by the removal of the spacers. The sleeve is then cut to floor level and the pipe riser is cut down to a suitable level.