Importance

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Abstract

Improved methods and apparatus are provided for adjusting a drill string compensator used for supporting a tubular string passing through a marine drilling vessel. First and second frames of the compensator are interconnected by a plurality of chains or other suitable force transmitting members, eacvh having a threaded rod connected at one end and passing through a respective bore in one of the frames. A plurality of ring-shaped transloader assemblies are provided for uniform tensioning of the force transmitting members, and each transloader assembly is independently axially movable and rotatable about its respective threaded rod. Each transloader assembly preferably includes a sleeve for transmitting load forces between the force transmitting members and the frame, and each sleeve is constructed such that only compressional forces are induced in the sleeve by the load. A biasing device and follower are provided for each of the transloader assemblies such that a uniform biasing force is applied to each of the force transmitting members, while selective positioning of each nut along its respective threaded rod provides for equal working lengths for each flexible force transmitting member. According to the method of the present invention, the force transmitting members are then re-positioned by the insertion of a spacer bar between each transloader and a compensator frame.

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First Claim