Conduit system for booster pump

Abstract

To reduce potential intake of contaminants into a pump system.SOLUTION: A pump system includes a first cylinder, a first piston disposed within the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder, a second cylinder, and a second piston disposed within the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder. The first piston is movable in a first direction to draw working fluid into the first chamber portion, and movable in a second direction to pressurize working fluid in the first chamber portion. The second piston is movable in a third direction to draw working fluid into the third chamber portion, and movable in a fourth direction to pressurize working fluid in the third chamber portion. The conduit system fluidly couples the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber to one chamber portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates to pumps, and more particularly to conduit systems for booster pumps. [Background technology]

[0002] Booster pumps can be used to increase the pressure of a fluid, such as a gas. Booster pumps can include multiple cylinders with corresponding pistons within each cylinder. Movement of the pistons within the cylinders compresses the fluid within the cylinders, thereby increasing the pressure of the fluid. The interior of the cylinders can be susceptible to picking up contaminants from the external environment surrounding the booster pump. The presence of contaminants within the cylinders can adversely affect the operation of the booster pump. For example, contaminants can mix with the fluid being compressed, affecting the composition of the fluid or degrading the operation of the booster pump components. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] In one embodiment, the pump system includes a first cylinder, a first piston, a second cylinder, a second piston, and a conduit system. The first piston is disposed within the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder. The first piston is movable in a first direction to draw hydraulic fluid into the first chamber portion. The first piston is movable in a second direction to pressurize hydraulic fluid and expel hydraulic fluid from the first chamber portion. The second piston is disposed within the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder. The second piston is configured to move in a third direction within the second cylinder to draw hydraulic fluid into the third chamber portion. The second piston is configured to move in a fourth direction to pressurize hydraulic fluid and expel hydraulic fluid from the third chamber portion. The conduit system fluidly couples the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion to each other. The conduit system is configured to conduct fluid between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion.

[0004] In another embodiment, a pump system includes a first cylinder, a first piston, a second cylinder, and a second piston. The first piston is disposed within the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder. The first cylinder is configured to receive hydraulic fluid in the first chamber portion. The first piston is configured to pressurize the hydraulic fluid within the first chamber portion. The second piston is disposed within the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder. The second cylinder is configured to receive hydraulic fluid in the third chamber portion. The second piston is configured to pressurize the hydraulic fluid within the third chamber portion. Additionally, the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion are fluidly coupled to each other, and pressurization of the hydraulic fluid within the first chamber portion by movement of the first piston within the first cylinder and / or pressurization of the hydraulic fluid within the third chamber portion by movement of the second piston within the second cylinder directs fluid between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion.

[0005] In another embodiment, the conduit system includes a first leg and a second leg. The first leg is configured to be fluidly coupled to a first chamber portion of a first cylinder. The first cylinder has a first piston defining the first and second chamber portions. The second leg is configured to be fluidly coupled to a third chamber portion of a second cylinder. The second cylinder has a second piston defining the third and fourth chamber portions. Movement of the first piston within the first cylinder pressurizes hydraulic fluid within the second chamber portion, and movement of the second piston within the second cylinder pressurizes hydraulic fluid within the fourth chamber portion, and the first and second legs fluidly couple the first and third chamber portions to each other. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] To complete the description and for a better understanding of the present disclosure, a set of drawings are provided. The drawings form an integral part of this specification and illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, but should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure, but merely as examples of how the invention may be practiced. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of another fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of yet another fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart of a method of operating a fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] Similar numbers are used throughout the figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present disclosure relates to reducing the potential introduction of contaminants into pump systems, such as boosters. During operation, the booster increases the pressure of a fluid (e.g., a hydraulic fluid). For example, the booster may include a cylinder defining a chamber and a piston disposed within the chamber to define a first portion and a second portion of the chamber. The fluid is directed into the first portion (e.g., a pressurizing portion), and the piston is configured to move within the chamber to reduce the volume of the first portion, thereby pressurizing the fluid. The pressurized fluid is then released from the chamber.

[0009] Adjusting the volume of the first portion by moving the piston correspondingly adjusts the volume of the second portion. Specifically, moving the piston to decrease the volume of the first portion also increases the volume of the second portion, and moving the piston to increase the volume of the first portion also decreases the volume of the second portion. Moving the piston to adjust the volume of the second portion may allow certain external particles to flow between the second portion and the external environment surrounding the cylinder. For example, moving the piston to increase the volume of the second portion may reduce the pressure within the second portion. As a result, external particles, ambient air, moisture, dust, and / or debris (collectively referred to as external particles for simplicity) may be encouraged to flow from the external environment to fill the reduced-pressure second portion.

[0010] Unfortunately, in some situations, foreign particles can mix with the fluid being compressed by the pump system (referred to herein as the "working fluid" and variations thereof). For example, if there is a space or gap between the piston and the cylinder, foreign particles can flow across the piston between the second and first portions, thereby mixing with each other. As a result, the composition of the working fluid can be adversely affected. Additionally or alternatively, foreign particles can be expelled from the cylinder (e.g., from the first portion due to movement of the piston) and directed elsewhere within the pump system. The foreign particles can then contact and affect the structural integrity of components (e.g., seals) of the pump system.

[0011] Therefore, reducing the entrapment of foreign particles into the cylinder can improve the composition of the pressurized working fluid and / or the useful life of the pump system. Thus, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an additional fluid (e.g., a process fluid) is directed into a second portion of a chamber defined by the cylinder. The additional fluid fills the second portion, thereby pressurizing the second portion and blocking potential entrapment of foreign particles into the second portion. For example, during a movement of the piston that increases the volume of the second portion (e.g., a movement of the piston that decreases the volume of the first portion), the additional fluid can be directed into the second portion.

[0012] During movement of the piston that decreases the volume of the second portion (e.g., movement of the piston that increases the volume of the first portion), additional fluid may be released from the second portion to facilitate the movement of the piston. In this manner, the additional fluid may be directed into and out of the second portion without affecting (e.g., impeding) the movement of the piston, thereby maintaining pressure within the second portion. The pump system includes a conduit system that directs the additional fluid into and out of the second portion. As an example, the conduit system may fluidly connect the second portion of the cylinder with the additional cylinder, facilitating the flow of the additional fluid between the cylinder and the additional cylinder (e.g., during movement of the piston within the cylinder and the additional cylinder, respectively). Such a connection allows for efficient utilization of the additional fluid while avoiding the entrapment of foreign particles within each cylinder. Therefore, operation of the pump system may be improved.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a pump system 100. The pump system 100 is a booster configured to increase the pressure of a fluid, such as a gas. The pump system 100 includes a pump portion 101 having a first cylinder 102 defining a first chamber 104 through which at least one hydraulic fluid can be pumped / pressurized. More specifically, a first piston 106 is disposed within the first chamber 104 and divides the first chamber 104 into a first chamber portion 104A and a second chamber portion 104B, one on each side of the first piston 106. The first piston 106 is configured to move within the first chamber 104 to adjust the volumes of the first chamber portion 104A and the second chamber portion 104B. The pump portion 101 also includes a second cylinder 112 defining a second chamber 114. A second piston 116 is disposed within the second chamber 114 and divides the second chamber 114 into a third chamber portion 114A and a fourth chamber portion 114B, one on each side of the second piston 116.

[0014] The pump portion 101 includes a first end cap 118 (e.g., a first outer cap) and a first inner cap 120 coupled to opposite ends of the first cylinder 102 to enclose the first chamber 104. The first chamber portion 104A is formed between a first end wall 122 (e.g., a first inner wall) of the first end cap 118 and a first side or surface 123 (e.g., a first pressure surface) of the first piston 106, and the second chamber portion 104B is formed between a second end wall 124 (e.g., a first outer wall) of the first inner cap 120 and a second side or surface 126 (e.g., a back surface) of the first piston 106. The pump portion 101 also includes a second end cap 128 (e.g., a second outer cap) and a second inner cap 130 coupled to opposite ends of the second cylinder 112 to enclose the second chamber 114. The third chamber portion 114A is formed between a second end wall 132 (e.g., a second inner wall) of the second end cap 128 and a third side or surface 133 (e.g., a second pressure surface) of the second piston 116, and the fourth chamber portion 114B is formed between a fourth end wall 134 (e.g., a second outer wall) of the second inner cap 130 and a fourth side or surface 136 (e.g., a back surface) of the second piston 116.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first chamber portion 104A and the third chamber portion 114A are configured to receive a working fluid for pressurization by the first piston 106 and the second piston 116, respectively. For example, movement of the first piston 106 in a first direction 138 away from the first end cap 118 increases the volume of the first chamber portion 104A, thereby drawing working fluid flow into the first cylinder 102 at the first chamber portion 104A. Movement of the first piston 106 in a second direction 140, opposite the first direction 138 and toward the first end cap 118, decreases the volume of the first chamber portion 104A, increasing the pressure of the working fluid in the first chamber portion 104A and expelling the pressurized working fluid from the first chamber portion 104A. Movement of the second piston 116 in a second direction 140 away from the second end cap 128 increases the volume of the third chamber portion 114A, drawing a working fluid flow (e.g., the same or a different fluid as in the first cylinder 102) in the third chamber portion 114A into the second cylinder 112. Movement of the second piston 116 in a first direction 138 toward the second end cap 128 decreases the volume of the third chamber portion 114A, increasing the pressure of the working fluid in the third chamber portion 114A and expelling the pressurized working fluid from the third chamber portion 114A. The first end cap 118 and the second end cap 128 include a first passage 142 and a valve (e.g., a one-way valve such as a check valve) that allows the flow of working fluid into and out of the first chamber portion 104A and the third chamber portion 114A, respectively.

[0016] According to embodiments of the present application, process or cavity fluid may fill the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B, thereby allowing the first piston 106 and / or the second piston 116, respectively, to "breathe" or vent (e.g., during a stroke of the pistons 106, 116). That is, movement of the first piston 106 in the second direction 140 may increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B, drawing process fluid into the second chamber portion 104B. Movement of the first piston 106 in the first direction 138 may then decrease the volume of the second chamber portion 104B, expelling process fluid from the second chamber portion 104B. Similarly, movement of the second piston 116 in the first direction 138 may increase the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B, drawing process fluid into the fourth chamber portion 114B, while movement of the second piston 116 in the second direction 140 may decrease the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B, expelling process fluid from the fourth chamber portion 114B. Such movement of process fluid into or out of the second and / or fourth chamber portions 104B may facilitate movement of the pistons 106, 116 (e.g., by balancing pressure on opposite sides of the pistons 106, 116). The first and second inner caps 120, 130 include second passages 144 and valves (e.g., check valves) that allow process fluid to flow into and out of the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B, respectively.

[0017] Additionally, filling the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B with the desired process fluid may prevent foreign particles, such as ambient air or other contaminants, from entering the cylinders 102, 112, which could otherwise adversely affect the operation of the pump system 100. For example, when the process fluid pressurizes the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B, the process fluid prevents the potential flow of foreign particles from the external environment into the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B. Thus, introducing the process fluid into these locations can prevent or at least inhibit contaminants from mixing with the working fluid and / or unintentionally contacting components of the pump system 100. This, in turn, maintains the desired operation of the pump system 100 and / or the availability of the working fluid.

[0018] If the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B are filled with process fluid but are not connected to a fluid conduit, the process fluid may flow across the first piston 106 and / or across the second piston 116. That is, in this scenario, the process fluid may flow from the second chamber portion 104B to the first chamber portion 104A and / or from the fourth chamber portion 114B to the third chamber portion 114A, mixing with the working fluid in the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A. As a result, with the techniques presented herein, the process fluid may be pressurized by the pistons 106, 116 and directed elsewhere (e.g., to contact another component of the pump system 100, to another system fluidly coupled to the pump system 100, or to another operation for further processing). However, with caution, the process fluid may also have a composition and other properties that avoid adversely affecting the operation of the pump system 100 and / or avoid undesired contamination of the working fluid. By way of example, the process fluid may be or include hydrogen gas.

[0019] In some embodiments, the working fluid stream channeled through the pump portion 101 is pressurized by each of the first piston 106 and the second piston 116. For example, the working fluid stream is initially pressurized by the first piston 106 (e.g., a low-pressure piston) in the first chamber 104 (e.g., a low-pressure chamber), and the working fluid stream is channeled from the first chamber 104 to the second chamber 114 (e.g., a high-pressure chamber) for further pressurization by the second piston 116 (e.g., a high-pressure piston). In such embodiments, the pump system 100 is a two-stage booster that pressurizes the same working fluid stream through each of the pistons 106, 116. In additional or alternative embodiments, different working fluid streams are pressurized by one of the pistons 106, 116. That is, in some embodiments, separate working fluid streams are channeled into the first chamber 104 and the second chamber 114 for pressurization. In such embodiments, the pump system 100 is a single-stage booster. The pump system may also operate with other stage arrangements now known or later developed.

[0020] The pump portion 101 of the depicted embodiment further includes a pump drive system 146 configured to actuate the pistons 106, 116. The pump drive system 146 includes a drive shaft or rod 148 coupled to each of the first piston 106 and the second piston 116. For example, the drive shaft 148 includes a first end 150 extending toward the first cylinder 102 and coupled to the first piston 106, and a second end 152 opposite the first end 150, extending toward the second cylinder 112 and coupled to the second piston 116. Thus, movement of the drive shaft 148 drives movement of each piston 106, 116, at least in the depicted embodiment. However, in other embodiments, each drive shaft 148 may be connected to and configured to drive the pistons 106, 116.

[0021] 1 , movement (e.g., translation) of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 drives movement of the second piston 116 toward the second end cap 128 and movement of the first piston 106 away from the first end cap 118. Thus, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 compresses the working fluid in the third chamber portion 114A by decreasing the volume of the third chamber portion 114A and draws the working fluid into the first chamber portion 104A by increasing the volume of the first chamber portion 104A. Movement (e.g., translation) of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 drives movement of the first piston 106 toward the first end cap 118 and movement of the second piston 116 away from the second end cap 128. As a result, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 pressurizes the working fluid in the first chamber portion 104A by decreasing the volume of the first chamber portion 104A and draws the working fluid into the third chamber portion 114A by increasing the volume of the third chamber portion 114A. The drive shaft 148 can alternate between movement in the first direction 138 and movement in the second direction 140 to alternately pressurize the fluid in the first chamber portion 104A and the third chamber portion 114A.

[0022] Pump drive system 146 also includes a housing 154 that defines an interior 156. Drive shaft 148 extends through interior 156, and housing 154 shields drive shaft 148 from the external environment, thereby protecting drive shaft 148 from dust, debris, or other contaminants in the external environment. Housing 154 can also align drive shaft 148 with first chamber 104 and second chamber 114.

[0023] For example, in the depicted embodiment, a first adapter 158 is coupled to the housing 154 and the first inner cap 120, with the first inner cap 120 (e.g., second end wall 124) coupled to the first cylinder 102 to couple and align the housing 154 and the first cylinder 102. A second adapter 160 is also coupled to the housing 154 and the second inner cap 130, with the second inner cap 130 (e.g., fourth end wall 134) coupled to the second cylinder 112 to couple and align the housing 154 and the second cylinder 112. The drive shaft 148 extends through the adapters 158, 160 and into the cylinders 102, 112, which are aligned with the housing 154. Additionally, the first end cap 118 (e.g., first end wall 122) is coupled to the first cylinder 102, and the first stay rod 162 is coupled to the first adapter 158 and the first end cap 118, thereby providing further fixturing between the housing 154 coupled to the first adapter 158 and the first cylinder 102 coupled to the first end cap 118. The second end cap 128 (e.g., second end wall 132) is coupled to the second cylinder 112, and the second stay rod 164 is coupled to the second adapter 160 and the second end cap 128, thereby providing further fixturing between the housing 154 coupled to the second adapter 160 and the second cylinder 112 coupled to the second end cap 128. However, in other embodiments, the housing 154 may be coupled to one or more cylinders in any manner now known or later developed.

[0024] 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit 200 that may be implemented in pump system 100. Fluid circuit 200 includes a conduit system 202 fluidly coupled to pump portion 101. Certain components of pump system 100, such as end caps 118, 128, inner caps 120, 130, and adapters 158, 160, are not shown for purposes of visualization. Additionally, while a working fluid source 204 (e.g., a working fluid reservoir, a working fluid handling system) is shown directing working fluid to pump portion 101 in the illustrated embodiment, working fluid source 204 need not be part of pump system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, separate working fluid streams are directed to each cylinder 102, 112. That is, the working fluid source 204 directs a first working fluid stream 206 into the first cylinder 102—e.g., the first chamber portion 104A—(e.g., via the first passage 142 in the first end cap 118) and a second working fluid stream 208 into the second cylinder 112—e.g., the third chamber portion 114A—(e.g., via the first passage 142 in the second end cap 128). The pistons 106, 116 thus separately pressurize the working fluid streams 206, 208. For example, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 causes the second piston 116 to pressurize the second working fluid stream 208 in the third chamber portion 114A, and movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 causes the first piston 106 to pressurize the first working fluid stream 206 in the first chamber portion 104A.

[0025] After the first working fluid stream 206 and the second working fluid stream 208 are pressurized by the pump portion 101, these working fluid streams 206, 208 are discharged from the cylinders 102, 112, respectively, and directed to a working fluid target 210 (e.g., another component of the pump system 100, a component external to the pump system 100). To this end, a first valve 212, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents the first working fluid stream 206 from exiting the first cylinder 102 toward the working fluid source 204, thereby forcing the pressurized first working fluid stream 206 toward the working fluid target 210, and a second valve 214, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents the second working fluid stream 208 from exiting the second cylinder 112 toward the working fluid source 204, thereby forcing the pressurized second working fluid stream 208 toward the working fluid target 210.

[0026] As an example, the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 exiting the cylinders 102, 112, respectively, may be combined and directed to the same working fluid target 210. Additionally or alternatively, the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 may be directed separately (e.g., in parallel with each other) to the same working fluid target 210 or to different working fluid targets 210. In either example, the pump system 100 is a single-stage booster in which each working fluid stream 206, 208 is pressurized once by one of the pistons 106, 116. A third valve 216, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 from re-entering the first cylinder 102, and a fourth valve 218, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 from re-entering the second cylinder 112. Thus, the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 are forced toward the working fluid target 210.

[0027] The conduit system 202 is configured to direct process fluid / gas into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B. The process fluid in the second chamber portion 104B can facilitate movement of the first piston 106, and the process fluid in the fourth chamber portion 114B can facilitate movement of the second piston 116. Additionally, the process fluid in the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B can block the introduction of external particles (e.g., ambient air, dust, debris) into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B to maintain desired operation of the pump system 100. For example, blocking foreign particles from entering the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B may prevent or at least inhibit foreign particles from mixing with the working fluid (e.g., via the flow of foreign particles from the second chamber portion 104B across the first piston 106 to the first chamber portion 104A and / or via the flow of foreign particles from the fourth chamber portion 114B across the second piston 116 to the third chamber portion 114A). Alternatively, mixing of a substance into the working fluid may include mixing of a process fluid into the working fluid. This mixing does not adversely affect the operation and / or structural integrity of the pump system 100. As a result, the desired operation and / or useful life of the pump system 100 may be maintained.

[0028] The conduit system 202 includes a first leg or exchange conduit 220 configured to transfer process fluid to and from the second chamber portion 104B and a second leg or exchange conduit 222 configured to transfer process fluid to and from the fourth chamber portion 114B. As an example, the first exchange conduit 220 and the second exchange conduit 222 may be fluidly coupled to the second passage 144 of the inner caps 120, 130. Additionally, the first exchange conduit 220 and the second exchange conduit 222 are fluidly coupled to each other via a third exchange conduit 224 (e.g., a shared conduit). Thus, process fluid can flow between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B via the exchange conduits 220, 222, 224.

[0029] More specifically, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 moves the first piston 106, decreasing the volume of the second chamber portion 104B, and the second piston 116, increasing the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B. As a result, process fluid is forced from the second chamber portion 104B into the first exchange conduit 220. The process fluid flows from the first exchange conduit 220, through the third exchange conduit 224, through the second exchange conduit 222, and into the fourth chamber portion 114B, filling it. In this manner, process fluid is exchanged between the cylinders 102, 112 according to the adjusted volumes of the second and fourth chamber portions 104B and 114B caused by the movement of the pistons 106, 116. However, the contraction chamber (e.g., chamber portion 104B in this example) does not empty. Instead, both the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B remain filled with process fluid at an appropriate volume / pressure to prevent the introduction of foreign particles into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the pump portion 101 is arranged so that a volume adjustment of the second chamber portion 104B corresponds to a volume adjustment of the fourth chamber portion 114B. That is, for example, during movement of the first piston 106 to increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B by a particular amount, the second piston 116 can move to decrease the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B by the same particular amount. The corresponding volume adjustments of the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B, allow corresponding amounts of process fluid to flow between the second and fourth chamber portions 104B and 114B.

[0031] For example, decreasing the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B by a specific amount will result in the discharge of a quantity of process fluid from the fourth chamber portion 114B. Correspondingly, the volume of the second chamber portion 104B will be increased by approximately the same specific amount to accommodate the intake of the quantity of process fluid being discharged from the fourth chamber portion 114B. In other words, movement of the pistons 106, 116 to decrease the volume of one of the chamber portions 104B, 114B can simultaneously increase the volume of the other chamber portion 104B, 114B to facilitate the flow of a quantity of process fluid from one of the chamber portions 104B, 114B to the other chamber portion 104B, 114B. In such a case, the total amount of process fluid in the conduit system 202 can be easily controlled and maintained during operation of the pump system 100. In some embodiments, a relatively constant amount of process fluid flows between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B because the cylinders 102, 112 have approximately equal (e.g., identically sized) cross-sectional areas and the pistons 106, 116 have approximately equal (e.g., identically sized) cross-sectional areas. However, other embodiments may transfer a constant amount of process fluid between cylinders of different shapes by adjusting stroke length, cylinder size, piston size, etc.

[0032] In some situations, it may be desirable to direct the fluid out of the conduit system 202 (e.g., to the external environment, a fluid reservoir, a fluid processing system). For example, it may be desirable to clean or replace the process fluid to remove contaminants that may be contained within the process fluid and / or to avoid a pressure buildup within the conduit system 202 that may affect the structural integrity of the components of the conduit system 202 (e.g., as a result of working fluid leaking into the conduit system 202). Thus, the useful life of the conduit system 202 may be improved. To this end, the depicted conduit system 202 includes a first discharge conduit 226 and a second discharge conduit 228. The first discharge conduit 226 is fluidly coupled to the first exchange conduit 220 and the third exchange conduit 224 via a first three-way valve 230, and the second discharge conduit 228 is fluidly coupled to the second exchange conduit 222 and the third exchange conduit 224 via a second three-way valve 232.

[0033] The three-way valves 230, 232 are adjustable to modify the flow of process fluid through the conduit system 202. For example, a first position of the first three-way valve 230 can direct fluid from the first exchange conduit 220 to the third exchange conduit 224 (e.g., directing the process fluid toward the fourth chamber portion 114B), and a second position of the first three-way valve 230 can direct fluid from the first exchange conduit 220 to the first discharge conduit 226 (e.g., directing the process fluid out of the conduit system 202). A first position of the second three-way valve 232 can direct fluid from the second exchange conduit 222 to the third exchange conduit 224 (e.g., directing the process fluid toward the second chamber portion 114B), and a second position of the second three-way valve 232 can direct fluid from the second exchange conduit 222 to the second discharge conduit 228 (e.g., directing the process fluid out of the conduit system 202). In this manner, the three-way valves 230, 232 may be adjusted between first and second positions to selectively control the flow of fluid through the conduit system 202. In certain embodiments, the three-way valves 230, 232 are configured to transition to intermediate positions between the first and second positions to direct some fluid to the third exchange conduit 224 and some fluid to a corresponding one of the exhaust conduits 226, 228. That is, in other embodiments, the conduit system 202 may include any number of exhaust paths / conduits at any location and may connect the exhaust paths / conduits to the exchange conduits in any manner.

[0034] In some embodiments, pump system 100 includes or is communicatively coupled to a control system 234 configured to operate certain components of pump system 100, such as drive shaft 148 and three-way valves 230, 232. Control system 234 includes memory 236 and a processor 238 (e.g., processing circuitry). Memory 236 includes read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media devices, optical storage media devices, flash memory devices, electrical, optical, or other physical / tangible (e.g., non-transitory) memory storage devices. Thus, generally, memory 236 includes one or more computer-readable storage media (e.g., memory devices) encoded with software having computer-executable instructions that can be executed to implement the operations described herein. For example, memory 236 stores or is encoded with instructions for operating pump system 100. Processor 238 may include, for example, a collection of one or more microcontrollers and / or microprocessors, each configured to execute respective software instructions stored in memory 236. Processor 238 may be configured, for example, to execute the instructions stored in memory 236 to operate pump system 100.

[0035] As an example, control system 234 is configured to operate three-way valves 230, 232 to regulate the flow of fluid through conduit system 202. In certain embodiments, control system 234 is configured to adjust the positions of three-way valves 230, 232 based on parameters determined by sensors 240. The parameters may indicate, for example, the composition of the fluid in conduit system 202 (e.g., flowing through any of exchange conduits 220, 222, 224), the fluid pressure in conduit system 202, and / or the fluid temperature in conduit system 202. In response to the parameter indicative of the fluid to be discharged (e.g., the fluid composition has changed in a manner indicating the presence of a contaminant, the fluid pressure has exceeded a threshold indicating an unintended flow of process fluid into conduit system 202, the fluid temperature has exceeded a threshold range indicating a possible change in the effectiveness of the process fluid), control system 234 is configured to adjust three-way valves 230, 232 to a second position to direct the fluid to discharge conduits 226, 228 for discharge from conduit system 202. To this end, the control system 234 is communicatively coupled to the sensor 240 and configured to receive the parameters and appropriately operate the three-way valves 230, 232 based on the received parameters. In additional or alternative embodiments, the control system 234 is configured to adjust the positions of the three-way valves 230, 232 at a set frequency. For example, the control system 234 is configured to transition the three-way valves 230, 232 from a first position to a second position to drain fluid from the conduit system 202 at set time intervals, regardless of the determined parameters of the fluid.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, conduit system 202 may include a vent system 242 configured to vent fluid from conduit system 202 (e.g., to the external environment, to a fluid reservoir, to a fluid processing system), e.g., based on pressure, to avoid pressure buildup within conduit system 202. Thus, vent system 242 may further help improve the useful life of conduit system 202. In the illustrated embodiment, vent system 242 is in fluid communication with third exchange conduit 224. For example, vent system 242 may include an adjustment valve 244 configured to open or actuate when the fluid pressure within conduit system 202 exceeds a first threshold pressure (e.g., a lower threshold pressure), e.g., a pressure between 1.5 bar (21.8 pounds per square inch (psi)) and 2 bar (29 psi).

[0037] Thus, the regulating valve 244 maintains the fluid pressure in the conduit system 202 below the first threshold pressure. Additionally or alternatively, the vent system 242 may include a pressure relief valve 246 configured to open or actuate when the fluid pressure in the conduit system 202 exceeds a second threshold pressure (e.g., a higher threshold pressure), for example, a pressure between 6 bar (87 psi) and 7 bar (101.5 psi). In this manner, the pressure relief valve 246 is configured to increase the discharge of fluid from the conduit system 202 (e.g., in combination with the discharge of fluid from the conduit system 202 via the regulating valve 244) to maintain the fluid pressure in the conduit system 202 below the second threshold pressure, such as toward the first threshold pressure. That is, while the pressure in the conduit system 202 exceeds the second threshold pressure, each of the regulating valve 244 and the pressure relief valve 246 may open to increase the discharge of fluid from the conduit system 202.

[0038] 2 , the depicted conduit system 202 is in fluid communication with a process fluid / gas source 248 (e.g., a process fluid reservoir, a process fluid treatment system), which may or may not be part of the pump system 100, and is configured to direct process fluid to the conduit system 202. In this manner, the process fluid source 248 can increase or replenish the amount of process fluid in the conduit system 202 such that the conduit system 202 can direct process fluid for filling the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, the conduit system 202 may include a process fluid valve 250 configured to receive process fluid from the process fluid source 248 and direct the process fluid to the third exchange conduit 224 to introduce the process fluid into the conduit system 202.

[0039] In some embodiments, process fluid valve 250 is a regulator valve configured to direct process fluid into conduit system 202 based on the pressure in conduit system 202, where the pressure indicates the amount of process fluid in conduit system 202. As an example, process fluid valve 250 may be configured to open when the pressure in conduit system 202 is below a minimum threshold pressure (e.g., indicating a low amount of process fluid), which may be a pressure between 0.3 bar (4.4 psi) and 1 bar (14.5 psi). Thus, process fluid may be directed into conduit system 202 and into cylinders 102, 112 (e.g., into second chamber portion 104B, fourth chamber portion 114B) and maintained above the minimum threshold pressure.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, control system 234 may be communicatively coupled to process fluid valve 250 and configured to open process fluid valve 250 based on the fluid pressure in conduit system 202 (e.g., as indicated by sensor 240) being below a minimum threshold pressure and / or at a set frequency. In either embodiment, process fluid valve 250 is used to direct process fluid into conduit system 202 to maintain a desired amount of fluid in conduit system 202. As an example, process fluid valve 250 directs process fluid into conduit system 202 at a positive pressure relative to the external air pressure in the external environment to enable conduit system 202 to maintain the pressure in second chamber portion 104B and / or fourth chamber portion 114B above a minimum threshold pressure to prevent the introduction of foreign particles into cylinders 102, 112.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the conduit system 202 directs fluid to the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A. For example, the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B may contain portions of the working fluid streams 206, 208, respectively (e.g., a portion of the first working fluid stream 206 may leak from the first chamber portion 104A to the second chamber portion 104B, and a portion of the second working fluid stream 208 may leak from the third chamber portion 114A to the fourth chamber portion 114B). The conduit system 202 directs such working fluid streams 206, 208 from the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B to the first chamber portion 104A and / or the second chamber portion 114A. Thus, the conduit system 202 allows the working fluid flows 206, 208 to be pressurized instead of being directed away from the pump portion 101 (e.g., even though the working fluid flows 206, 208 may have initially bypassed the pistons 106, 116), thereby increasing the operating efficiency of the pump system 100. In such embodiments, a filter or similar component may be used to remove fluid particles other than the working fluid flows 206, 208 from the conduit system 202 to avoid directing other fluids (e.g., process fluids) into the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A. Thus, the filter may prevent, or at least inhibit, unintended mixing between the working fluid flows 206, 208 and other fluids and the subsequent pressurization of fluids other than the working fluid flows 206, 208. As a result, working fluid streams 206, 208 of a more desirable composition may be pressurized in the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A.

[0042] 3 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit 300 that may be implemented in pump system 100. Similar to FIG. 2, fluid circuit 300 includes a conduit system 202 fluidly coupled to the pump portion. Consequently, conduit system 202 is configured to direct process fluid into second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, conduit system 202 includes exchange conduits 220, 222, 224 that direct process fluid between second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B; exhaust conduits 226, 228 configured to direct fluid from conduit system 202 via operation of three-way valves 230, 232 (e.g., by control system 234); and a vent system 242 configured to exhaust fluid from conduit system 202 based on pressure. Additionally, conduit system 202 is configured to receive process fluid from a process fluid source 248 via a process fluid valve 250. However, currently, the pump system 100 is a two-stage booster that pressurizes the working fluid flow 304 through the first piston 106 and then pressurizes the working fluid flow 304 through the second piston 116 .

[0043] Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, a working fluid stream 304 directed by the working fluid source 204 is pressurized by each of the first piston 106 and the second piston 116. That is, the working fluid source 204 directs the working fluid stream 304 into the first cylinder 102—e.g., into the first chamber portion 104A—(e.g., via the first passage 142 of the first end cap 118), and the first piston 106 pressurizes the working fluid stream 304 and discharges the working fluid stream 304 (e.g., via movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140) as a first compressed working fluid stream 306. The first compressed working fluid stream 306 is then directed (e.g., via the first passage 142 of the second end cap 128) into the third chamber portion 114A and further pressurized by the second piston 116 (e.g., via movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138) to provide a second compressed working fluid stream 308. A second compressed working fluid stream 308 exits the second cylinder 112 and is directed to the working fluid target 210 .

[0044] To achieve this scheme, pump portion 101 includes cylinder valves that are arranged differently compared to pump portion 101 of Figure 2. Specifically, first valve 310, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents working fluid stream 304 (e.g., first compressed working fluid stream 306) from exiting first cylinder 102 toward working fluid source 204, and second valve 312, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents first compressed working fluid stream 306 from re-entering first cylinder 102. Thus, first compressed working fluid stream 306 is forced toward second cylinder 112. Additionally, a third valve 314, which may be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents the working fluid stream 304 (e.g., second compressed working fluid stream 308) from exiting the second cylinder 112 toward the first cylinder 102, and a fourth valve 316, which may also be a one-way valve such as a check valve, prevents the second compressed working fluid stream 308 from re-entering the second cylinder 112. In this manner, the second compressed working fluid stream 308 is forced toward the working fluid target 210. Thus, the valves 310, 312, 314, 316 can facilitate operation of the pump system 100 as a two-stage booster that pressurizes the working fluid stream 304 through both pistons 106, 116.

[0045] 4 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit 400 that may be implemented in the pump system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump system 100 is a single-stage booster in which each working fluid stream 206, 208 is separately pressurized by the pistons 106, 116. That is, the first piston 106 pressurizes the first working fluid stream 206 (e.g., via movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140), the second piston 116 pressurizes the second working fluid stream 208 (e.g., via movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138), and the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 are directed (e.g., as a combined working fluid stream) to the working fluid target 210. However, this is merely exemplary, and the concepts illustrated in FIG. 4 may also be applied to pumps having two or more stages.

[0046] The fluid circuit 400 includes a conduit system 402 configured to conduct process fluid into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B. The illustrated conduit system 402 includes exchange conduits 404 (e.g., a shared exchange conduit, a common exchange conduit, or multiple exchange conduits fluidly coupled to one another) configured to conduct process fluid into and out of the second chamber portion 104B and into and out of the fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, the exchange conduit 404 may be fluidly coupled to the second passage 144 of the adapters 158, 160, and the process fluid may flow through the exchange conduit 404 between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B. However, the fluid circuit 400 has a different exhaust path compared to the fluid circuits illustrated in the previous figures.

[0047] Specifically, the conduit system 402 includes an exhaust conduit 406 (e.g., a shared exhaust conduit, a common exhaust conduit) that functions as a single exhaust path configured to conduct fluid out of the conduit system 402. The exhaust conduit 406 is fluidly connected to the exchange conduit 404. As such, the exhaust conduit 406 is configured to conduct fluid from each of the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B out of the conduit system 402 (e.g., via fluid flow from the second chamber portion 104B and / or from the fourth chamber portion 114B to the exchange conduit 404). In other words, the single exhaust conduit 406 can be used to conduct fluid out of the conduit system 402, including fluid flow from the fourth chamber portion 114B and fluid flow from the second chamber portion 104B.

[0048] As an example, the exhaust conduit 406 may be fluidly coupled to the exchange conduit 404 via a three-way valve 408 that is adjustable to modify the flow of fluid through the conduit system 402. For example, a first position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid through the exchange conduit 404 between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B. A second position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid from the exchange conduit 404 to the exhaust conduit 406, allowing the fluid to exit the conduit system 402 (e.g., from one side or the other). In some embodiments, the three-way valve 408 can be transitioned to additional positions. For example, a third position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid from the second chamber portion 104B to the exhaust conduit 406 and block fluid flow between the fourth chamber portion 114B and the second chamber portion 104B and / or between the fourth chamber portion 114B and the exhaust conduit 406. A fourth position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid from the fourth chamber portion 114B to the exhaust conduit 406 and block fluid flow between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B and / or between the second chamber portion 104B and the exhaust conduit 406. In certain embodiments, the control system 234 is communicatively coupled to the three-way valve 408 and configured to operate the three-way valve 408 based on parameters determined by the sensor 240, etc.

[0049] Conduit system 402 may additionally or alternatively include a vent system 410 configured to vent fluid from conduit system 402 based on pressure. For example, vent system 410 may include an adjustment valve 412 configured to open or activate when the fluid pressure in conduit system 402 exceeds a first threshold pressure (e.g., a lower threshold pressure) and / or a pressure relief valve 414 configured to open or activate when the fluid pressure in conduit system 402 exceeds a second threshold pressure (e.g., a higher threshold pressure).

[0050] The conduit system 402 may also be fluidly coupled to the process fluid source 248 and configured to receive the process fluid from the process fluid source 248. To illustrate this, the depicted conduit system 402 includes a process fluid valve 416 configured to direct the process fluid to the exchange conduit 404 based on fluid pressure within the conduit system 402 and / or via the control system 234, etc.

[0051] Although pump system 100 includes two cylinders 102, 112 fluidly coupled to one another for passing process fluid between second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B, pump system 100 may include any suitable number of cylinders in additional or alternative embodiments. In such embodiments, each cylinder includes a piston disposed therein to divide the cylinder's chamber, the piston configured to move within the corresponding cylinder to pressurize the working fluid within each cylinder's chamber portion. Meanwhile, process fluid fills the other chamber portion of each cylinder, and movement of the piston within the corresponding cylinder causes the process fluid to pass between the cylinders.

[0052] Furthermore, although this disclosure primarily discusses directing a working fluid into the first chamber portion 104A and the third chamber portion 114A and directing a process fluid into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B, in additional or alternative embodiments, the working fluid may be directed into any appropriate portion of the first cylinder 102 and / or the second cylinder 112 (e.g., into the second chamber portion 104B, into the fourth chamber portion 114B). Correspondingly, the process fluid may be directed into different portions of the first cylinder 102 and / or the second cylinder 112 (e.g., into the first chamber portion 104A, into the third chamber portion 114A) to facilitate movement of the pistons 106, 116 and to prevent the introduction of foreign particles into the cylinders 102, 112.

[0053] Additionally, while movement of the pistons 106, 116 (e.g., driven by a drive shaft 148) in opposite directions 138, 140 causes process fluid to flow between the cylinders 102, 112 in the illustrated embodiment, in additional or alternative embodiments, the pistons 106, 116 may move in different directions, and process fluid may flow between the cylinders 102, 112 during such movement of the pistons 106, 116. By way of example, the first piston 106 may move in a first direction to decrease the volume of the first chamber portion 104A and increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B, while the second piston 116 may move in a second direction transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the first direction to increase the volume of the third chamber portion 114A and decrease the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B. Such movement of the first piston 106 and the second piston 116 to increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B and decrease the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B, respectively, can cause process fluid to flow from the fourth chamber portion 114B into the second chamber portion 104B. Thus, regardless of the orientation of the direction of movement of the pistons 106, 116 relative to one another, the arrangement of the pistons 106, 116 to adjust the volume of the second chamber portion 104B relative to the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B can cause process fluid to flow between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B.

[0054] 5 is a flowchart of a method 450 for operating pump system 100. In some embodiments, the operations of method 450 may be performed by a single component, such as control system 234. Additionally or alternatively, different operations of method 450 may be performed by different components. It should be noted that method 450 may be performed differently than depicted. For example, additional operations may be performed, depicted operations may be performed differently, depicted operations may not be performed, and / or any of the depicted operations may be performed in a different order.

[0055] In block 452, a process fluid is directed to the first and second cylinders via a conduit system, such as either of conduit systems 202, 402. For example, the process fluid may be directed to fill the second chamber portion 104B of the first cylinder 102 and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B of the second cylinder 112 to increase the pressure in the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B to a threshold pressure. Filling the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B with the process fluid can prevent foreign particles from being introduced into the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B, thereby preventing the foreign particles from mixing with the working fluid.

[0056] In block 454, a drive shaft, such as drive shaft 148, is operated to pressurize the working fluid in the first cylinder and direct process fluid from the second cylinder through the conduit system to the first cylinder. For example, drive shaft 148 can be driven in the second direction 140 to drive first piston 106 in the second direction 140, thereby decreasing the volume of first chamber portion 104A and increasing the volume of second chamber portion 104B. The decrease in volume of first chamber portion 104A pressurizes the working fluid in first chamber portion 104A. Further, movement of drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 drives second piston 116 in the second direction 140, increasing the volume of third chamber portion 114A and decreasing the volume of fourth chamber portion 114B. The decrease in volume of fourth chamber portion 114B causes process fluid (e.g., a mixture of process fluid and working fluid) to flow out of fourth chamber portion 114B and into the conduit system. The conduit system then directs the process fluid to the second chamber portion 104B, which has an increased volume.

[0057] In block 456, the drive shaft is actuated to pressurize the working fluid in the second cylinder and direct the process fluid from the first cylinder to the second cylinder through the conduit system. That is, the drive shaft is actuated in a first direction, driving the second piston in the first direction, thereby decreasing the volume of the third chamber portion and increasing the volume of the fourth chamber portion. The decrease in volume of the third chamber portion pressurizes the working fluid in the third chamber portion. Movement of the drive shaft in the first direction also moves the first piston in the first direction, increasing the volume of the first chamber portion and decreasing the volume of the second chamber portion. The decrease in volume of the second chamber portion causes the process fluid (e.g., a mixture of process fluid and working fluid) to flow out of the second chamber portion and into the conduit system, which directs the process fluid to the fourth chamber portion, which has an increased volume. In this way, during movement of the drive shaft to pressurize the working fluid in the first and second cylinders, each of the second and fourth chamber portions remains filled with process fluid (e.g., to pressurize the second and fourth chamber portions 104B and 114B to a threshold pressure).

[0058] At block 458, the amount of process fluid in the conduit system is adjusted. In some embodiments, the process fluid is diverted out of the conduit system. For example, the process fluid is diverted from the conduit system at set time intervals. Additionally or alternatively, the process fluid is diverted out of the conduit system based on determined parameters that may indicate potential contamination of the process fluid and / or increased pressure within the conduit system. In any of these examples, diverting the process fluid out of the conduit system may improve the availability of the process fluid and / or extend the useful life of the conduit system.

[0059] In additional or alternative embodiments, process fluid is directed into the conduit system. For example, the process fluid may be directed into the conduit system to maintain fluid pressure within the conduit system, which may ensure that the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B can be sufficiently filled with process fluid to prevent the introduction of foreign particles into the cylinders 102, 112. To this end, a valve (e.g., process fluid valve 250, process fluid valve 416) is operated to direct process fluid from the process fluid source 248 into the conduit system. As an example, the process fluid may be drawn out of the conduit system for a predetermined period of time, thereby reducing the fluid pressure within the conduit system (e.g., below a threshold pressure that allows the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B to be sufficiently filled with process fluid). In response, the valve opens to direct process fluid from the process fluid source 248 into the conduit system, thereby replenishing the process fluid previously directed out of the conduit system to increase the fluid pressure within the conduit system (e.g., above a threshold pressure that allows the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B to be sufficiently filled with process fluid). Thus, process fluid is directed into the conduit system to maintain the desired operation of the pump system 100.

[0060] As used herein, unless expressly stated to the contrary, use of phrases such as "at least one," "one or more," "and / or," variations thereof, and the like are open-ended expressions, both conjunctive and disconnected in operation, of all possible combinations of the associated listed items. For example, each of the phrases "at least one of X, Y, and Z," "at least one of X, Y, or Z," "one or more of X, Y, and Z," "one or more of X, Y, or Z," and "X, Y, and / or Z" can mean either: 1) X, but not Y, or Z; 2) Y, but not X, or not Z; 3) Z, but not X, or not Y; 4) X and Y, but not Z; 5) X and Z, but not Y; 6) Y and Z, but not X; or 7) X, Y, and Z.

[0061] Additionally, unless expressly stated to the contrary, terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are intended to distinguish the particular nouns they modify (e.g., element, condition, node, module, activity, operation, etc.). Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the use of these terms is not intended to indicate any kind of order, rank, importance, chronological order, or hierarchy of the modified nouns. For example, “first X” and “second X” are intended to specify two “X” elements without necessarily being limited by the order, rank, importance, chronological order, or hierarchy of the two elements. Additionally, as referred to herein, “at least one” and “one or more” can be expressed using the plural (‘(s)’) nomenclature (e.g., one or more element(s)).

[0062] Each exemplary embodiment disclosed herein is included to demonstrate one or more distinct features. However, all of the disclosed exemplary embodiments are designed to work together as part of a single, larger system or method. The present disclosure expressly contemplates composite embodiments that combine multiple previously discussed features of different exemplary embodiments into a single system or method.

[0063] One or more advantages described herein does not suggest that any one of the embodiments described herein necessarily provides all of the described advantages, or that all embodiments of the present disclosure necessarily provide any one of the described advantages. Numerous other changes, substitutions, variations, changes, and / or modifications may be ascertainable by those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass all such changes, substitutions, variations, changes, and / or modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A first cylinder; a first piston disposed within the first cylinder, defining a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder, the first piston configured to move in a first direction to draw hydraulic fluid into the first chamber portion and to move in a second direction to pressurize hydraulic fluid within the first chamber portion and expel hydraulic fluid from the first chamber portion; A second cylinder; a second piston disposed within the second cylinder, defining a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder, the second piston configured to move in a third direction to draw hydraulic fluid into the third chamber portion and to move in a fourth direction to pressurize and expel hydraulic fluid within the third chamber portion; a conduit system fluidly coupling the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion to one another and configured to conduct a fluid between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion; A pump system comprising:

2. 10. The pump system of claim 1, the first piston is configured to move in the second direction within the first cylinder to direct fluid from the second chamber portion through the conduit system toward the fourth chamber portion; the second piston is configured to move in the fourth direction within the second cylinder to direct fluid from the fourth chamber portion through the conduit system toward the second chamber portion. Pump system.

3. The pump system of claim 1 , further comprising a vent system configured to release fluid from the conduit system.

4. 4. The pump system of claim 3, wherein the vent system includes an adjustable valve configured to operate to release fluid from the conduit system based on fluid pressure within the conduit system exceeding a threshold pressure.

5. 10. The pump system of claim 1, comprising a valve configured to direct process gas from a process gas source to the conduit system.

6. 6. The pump system of claim 5, wherein the fluid conducted between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion via the conduit system includes the process gas.

7. 6. The pump system of claim 5, wherein the valve is configured to introduce the process gas into the conduit system at a positive pressure relative to atmospheric pressure in an external environment surrounding the pump system.

8. 2. The pump system of claim 1, wherein the first cylinder and the second cylinder have equal cross-sectional areas.

9. 9. The pump system of claim 8, wherein the first piston and the second piston have equal cross-sectional areas.

10. 10. The pump system of claim 1, wherein the first piston and the second piston are single-stage gas booster pumps configured to pressurize separate working fluid streams.

11. A first cylinder; a first piston disposed within the first cylinder and defining a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder; A second cylinder; a second piston disposed within the second cylinder and defining a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder; Equipped with the first cylinder configured to receive hydraulic fluid in the first chamber portion, and the first piston configured to pressurize hydraulic fluid within the first chamber portion; the second cylinder is configured to receive hydraulic fluid in the third chamber portion, the second piston is configured to pressurize the hydraulic fluid within the third chamber portion, the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion are fluidly coupled to one another, and movement of the first piston within the first cylinder to pressurize the hydraulic fluid within the first chamber portion and / or movement of the second piston within the second cylinder to pressurize the hydraulic fluid within the third chamber portion directs fluid between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion. Pump system.

12. 12. The pump system of claim 11, further comprising a conduit system fluidly coupling the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion to one another.

13. 13. The pump system of claim 12, wherein the fluid conducted between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion through the conduit system includes a process gas introduced into the conduit system at a positive pressure relative to atmospheric pressure in an external environment surrounding the pump system.

14. 13. The pump system of claim 12, wherein the conduit system comprises: a discharge conduit configured to discharge fluid from the conduit system; Equipped with a three-way valve, a first position of the three-way valve configured to direct fluid between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion; a second position of the three-way valve configured to direct fluid to the discharge conduit; Pump system.

15. 12. The pump system of claim 11, further comprising a drive shaft coupled to the first piston and the second piston; movement of the drive shaft in a first direction is configured to drive movement of the first piston to pressurize hydraulic fluid in the first chamber portion and drive movement of the second piston to draw hydraulic fluid into the third chamber portion; Movement of the drive shaft in a second direction opposite to the first direction is configured to drive movement of the second piston to pressurize hydraulic fluid in the third chamber portion and drive movement of the first piston to draw hydraulic fluid into the first chamber portion. Pump system.

16. 16. The pump system of claim 15, movement of the drive shaft in the first direction is configured to drive movement of the second piston to direct fluid from the fourth chamber portion toward the second chamber portion; Movement of the drive shaft in the second direction is configured to drive movement of the first piston to direct fluid from the second chamber portion toward the fourth chamber portion. Pump system.

17. 12. The pump system of claim 11, the first piston is configured to pressurize a flow of working fluid; the first cylinder is configured to discharge the flow of hydraulic fluid pressurized by the first piston into the second cylinder; the second piston is configured to further compress the flow of working fluid; Pump system.

18. a first leg configured to be fluidly coupled to a first chamber portion of a first cylinder having a first piston defining a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion; a second leg configured to be fluidly coupled to a third chamber portion of a second cylinder having a second piston defining a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion; Equipped with movement of the first piston within the first cylinder pressurizes hydraulic fluid within the second chamber portion; movement of the second piston within the second cylinder pressurizes hydraulic fluid within the fourth chamber portion; the first leg and the second leg fluidly couple the first chamber portion and the third chamber portion to one another; Conduit system.

19. 20. The conduit system of claim 18, further comprising a valve configured to introduce process fluid into the conduit system at a threshold pressure; the first leg and the second leg are configured to direct the process fluid between the first chamber portion and the third chamber portion. Conduit system.

20. 20. The conduit system of claim 18, further comprising a valve configured to direct fluid out of the first leg and the second leg at a threshold pressure.

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