Convertible modular skid with check valve support for pumps with internal combustion engines

Abstract

A diesel driven pump package converts from a drag skid to a wheeled trailer. A skid assembly includes a welded base with a basin. A removeable fuel tank fits within the basin. Multiple mounting crosspieces extend over the fuel tank overlap side rails of the welded base and are bolted to the side rails via longitudinal slots. An engine bracket is mounted on a first one of the multiple mounting crosspieces to support an engine. A pump bracket is mounted on a second one of the multiple mounting crosspieces to supports a pump. A check valve support braces a check valve extending from the pump volute. The check valve support includes an adjustable arm. A trailer package removably attaches to the skid assembly to convert the skid assembly to a wheeled trailer.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 678,595, filed Aug. 2, 2024, and 63 / 715,800, filed Nov. 4, 2024, both titled “Modular Skid with Check Valve Support for Pumps with Electric Motors,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 737,864, filed Dec. 23, 2024, titled “Convertible Modular Skid with Check Valve Support for Pumps with Internal Combustion Engines,” the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Portable pump systems typically include a pump coupled to an engine and other components and mounted on a fabricated skid. A skid assembly includes the pump itself (such as a centrifugal pump) and a driver (such as a diesel engine) that is mounted to a steel base. Such skid assemblies are configured to permit movement of an entire pump system without requiring disassembly and re-assembly at a location of use.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and rear perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation described herein;

[0004] FIG. 3 is a left side perspective view of the diesel driven pump package of FIGS. 1 and 2;

[0005] FIGS. 4A and 4B are different left and right side perspective views of a welded base for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0006] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fuel tank for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0007] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a mounting crosspiece for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0008] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a pump bracket for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0009] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of a side piece and top piece, respectively, of a lifting bail for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0010] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a collapsible solar panel support for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0011] FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective views of a control panel mount and a control panel cover, respectively, for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0012] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a check valve support for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0013] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a trailer tongue for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0014] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a leveling jack mount for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0015] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a trailer light box for a diesel a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0016] FIG. 15 is an assembly view of an example embodiment of a diesel driven pump package; and

[0017] FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of an example process for assembling a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements. Also, the following detailed description does not limit the invention.

[0019] Motors and pumps of different sizes may be combined to meet customer specifications and / or field requirements. A skid assembly is generally configured to axially align an output shaft of a given driver (e.g., an internal combustion engine) with an input shaft of a given pump when the engine and pump are mounted on a frame or base. The frame is shaped to account for the dimensions of each motor-pump combination and provide the required alignment of shafts when the motor and pump are mounted on the frame.

[0020] Skid assemblies are typically moved as a unit to, from, and within a job site. In some instances, the skid assembly may be mounted on or integral with a wheeled trailer. The skid or frame must be rigid and robust to maintain alignment of the pump, motor, and other components as the skid is dragged, rolled, or lifted.

[0021] Trailers and skids for pumps driven by internal combustion engines typically take the form of fully-welded single body units, where the fuel tank is integrated as part of the body of the trailer or skid frame. There is no provision for self-containment of hazardous materials (oil, coolant, fuel, etc.). As part of a trailer or skid assembly, a check valve may be connected at an outlet of the centrifugal pump. The skid assembly is typically shipped with the check valve in a cantilevered arrangement, having one end of the check valve attached to the pump and the other end accessible for connection at a job site. The check valve support and other supports are welded in place or only adjustable in the vertical axis. This prevents the ability to make adjustments and limits flexibility to mount different pump models and sizes on the same skid / trailer frame. The skid / trailer frame must be modified with each build, since the supports otherwise can be insufficient for certain equipment sizes / configurations and the center of gravity can be off center for a flat pick-up point.

[0022] Implementations described herein provide a package for a pump driven by an internal combustion engine, such as a diesel engine. The package may be referred to herein as a diesel driven pump package or, more simply, a diesel package, although other types of engines may also be used. The diesel driven pump package can be converted from a drag skid to a wheeled trailer and vice versa. A trailer tongue, jack mounts, and other parts for the trailer can be removed and replaced with parts to facilitate transition to a drag skid. According to an implementation, the diesel driven pump package includes a removable fuel tank for cleaning and or replacement upon failure, which makes the package serviceable without needing to discard the main body (e.g., the structure that carries the vehicle identification number (VIN) required for vehicle registrations). The fuel tank may be fully contained in a liquid-tight main body, which ensures that the diesel driven pump package provides double fuel containment.

[0023] The diesel driven pump package may also include an adjustable check valve support using an all-thread tie-rod design which allows for very flexible support adjustment, such that the same support assembly can be used to accommodate various different pump or check valve sizes. The main trailer body may convert to a drag skid and is designed with slots running the length of the skid, which allows mounting of multiple engine sizes, manufactures, and pump models without needing unique weldments. The diesel driven pump package also allows manipulation of the location of the center of gravity by moving the pump and engine assembly axially in the slots.

[0024] In some embodiments, the main components (e.g., diesel engine, pump, and check valve) may have vibration dampening which allows the package to be quieter and smoother when the engine and pump are operating. The diesel driven pump package may also include a solar panel to charge a battery and may collapse for travel. The lifting bail may have multiple pickup points for in-field lateral adjustments.

[0025] FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and rear perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a diesel package 10. FIG. 3 is a left side perspective view of diesel package 10, and FIG. 15 is an assembly view of diesel package 10. Diesel package 10 may include a welded base 100, a fuel tank 200, mounting crosspieces 300, a control panel mount 400 with a control panel cover 450, a lifting bail 500, a check valve support 600, and a collapsable solar pant mount 700. Each of fuel tank 200, mounting crosspiece 300, control panel mount 400, control panel cover 450, lifting bail 500, check valve support 600, and collapsable solar pant mount 700 may be bolted or otherwise removably attached to welded base 100 to form a drag skid package.

[0026] A trailer conversion kit 900 may include additional components configured to be bolted to welded base 100 to convert the drag skid package to a trailer package. As described further herein, trailer conversion kit 900 may include a trailer tongue 910, one or more jack mounts 920, one or more light boxes 930, a wheel / axle assembly 940, and fenders 950.

[0027] An engine 20 may be mounted on diesel package 10 via one or more mounting crosspieces 300 selected to position engine 20 in alignment with a corresponding pump 30. More particularly, one or more engine brackets 315 may be secured to mounting crosspieces 300 with vibration dampening units 330 therebetween. Engine 20 may include, for example, a diesel engine that drives pump 30.

[0028] Pump 30 may include, for example, a centrifugal pump with, among other components, a bearing frame 32, a volute 34, an inlet 36, and an output flange 38. Pump 30 may be mounted on diesel package 10 via one or more mounting crosspieces 300 to position pump 30 in alignment with engine 20. More particularly, one or more pump brackets 320 may be secured to mounting crosspieces 300 with vibration dampening units 330 therebetween. As described further herein, pump brackets 320 may be selected from one of multiple sizes / heights to align an input shaft of pump 30 with a drive shaft of engine 20 when engine 20 and pump 30 are mounted on diesel package 10.

[0029] Each mounting crosspiece 300 may be removably secured to portions of welded base 100 such that the mounting locations of engine 20 and pump 30 may be adjusted longitudinally (front-to-back) allow for adjustment of the center of gravity or general alignment. In particular, slots in welded base 100 allow mounting crosspieces 300 to be moved forward or backward relative to base 100. This adjustment allows diesel package 10 to be assembled and customized so that package 10 can be picked up while level. Check valve support 600 may be secured to portions of welded base 100 to support a check valve 40 of pump 30. A coupling bracket 50 may be used to connect the mounted engine 20 and pump 30 around the coupling of the engine output shaft and the pump input shaft.

[0030] In one implementation, a single base 100 size can be used for a range of multiple engine 20 and pump 30 sizes. For example, a small, medium, and large size base 100 may be used to support multiple engine horsepower (HP) ratings in a supplier's product line and the accompanying pumps. A particular frame size may be selected, for example, based on a range of horsepower requirements (e.g., maximum horsepower at a given shaft revolutions-per-minute (RPM)) for a pump system, which may generally correspond to necessary component sizes (e.g., sizes of pump, engine, controller, etc.). Different sizes of pump brackets 320 may be selected and attached to one of the welded bases 100 to accommodate different engine / pump combinations.

[0031] Bolts 150 may be used for the bolt-on assembly. As used herein, the term bolts (such as bolts 150) may include threaded bolts (lag bolts), bolts and corresponding nuts, bolt / washer / nut combinations, screws, or other threaded fasteners, that may be used to secure components when holes in different mated surfaces are aligned. In other implementations, bolt 150 may encompass another type of removable fastener (a cotter-pin, clip, rivet, etc.) that can secure components of diesel package 10. In some implementations, bolts 150 may be provided in different sizes for different applications on diesel package 10.

[0032] Although FIGS. 1-3 shows exemplary components of diesel package 10, in other implementations, diesel package 10 may include fewer components, different components, differently arranged components, or additional components than depicted in FIGS. 1-3. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more components of diesel package 10 may perform functions described as being performed by one or more other components of diesel package 10.

[0033] FIGS. 4A and 4B are different left side perspective views of welded base 100. Welded base 100 may be manufactured from a metal material, such as powder-coated steel, stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, and / or another type of metal. In other implementations, base 100 may be made from a composite material. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-4B, welded base 100 may include a pair of side rails 102 connected by a bottom plate 120 and end slats 122. Side rails 102, bottom plate 120, and end slats 122a / 122b (referred to collectively as end slats 122) may have welded or other permanent or semi-permanent connections / connection points.

[0034] In one implementation, each of side rails 102 may have a substantially C-shaped cross section with a horizontal bottom panel 104, a vertical panel 106, and a horizontal top panel 108. Slots 110a and 110b (referred to herein collectively as slots 110) may be included on panels 108 throughout the length of side rails 102 for placement of the different bolt-on components (e.g., mounting crosspieces 300, check valve support 600, etc.) to facilitate mounting of engine 20 and pump 30. Multiple configurations and combinations of the bolt-on supports allow for different pump and engine combinations to be mounted on identical skid bases 100. Additional holes 112 may be included on horizontal bottom panel 104 for attachment of other components (e.g., a trailer conversion kit). As shown in FIG. 4A, for example, horizontal top panel 108 may include two parallel rows of slots 110. Slots 110a may be on the inside of horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., closer to vertical panel 106), and slots 110b may be on the outside of horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., further from vertical panel 106). As described further herein, the two parallel rows of slots 110a and 110b may facilitate secure mounting of components across side rails 102 (such as mounting crosspieces 300) and on a single side rail 102 (such as engine brackets 310 (FIG. 3) or a tray 82 for a battery 80 (FIGS. 1 and 2)).

[0035] End slats 122 may be welded, for example, to each side rail 102, providing a fixed width for welded base 100 (e.g., along an X-axis of FIG. 4A). End slats 122a may be affixed, for example, at a front end (e.g., along a Y-axis of FIG. 4A) of each side rail 102, while end slat 122b may be affixed, for example, at a back end of each side rail 102. According to one implementation, end slats 122 be configured to bend or extend around respective ends of side rails 102 such that end portions 124a and 124b (referred to collectively as end portions 124) may be attached at the exposed ends of horizontal bottom panel 104 and horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., with end portions 124 in a parallel plane to vertical panel 106). End portions 124 may include fixture openings 126 configured to receive taillight fixtures for trailer configurations. End portions 124 may form a partially covered recess accessible between each end portion 124 and vertical plane 106. The recess may permit access for insertion of hardware (e.g., lock washers, nuts, etc.) when securing bolts through slots 110 in horizontal top panel 108 and / or fixture openings 126.

[0036] In one implementation, front end slat 122a may include bolt holes 128 in end portion 124a that are configured to align with mounting holes (e.g., mounting holes 914a / 914b, FIG. 12) of trailer tongue 910. In one implementation, back end slat 122b may include bolt holes 130 in end portion 124b that are configured to align with mounting holes of a light box 930 (FIG. 14). End slats 122 may also include bolt holes 131 configured to align with mounting holes of jack mounts 920 (FIG. 13). In another implementation, both end slats 122a and 122b may be provided with identical configurations to be interchangeably installed in either a front or back end for welded base 100. When configured as a drag skid, jack mounts 920 may be removed and bolt holes 131 may be used for mounting other components, such as a chain mount or tow bar (not shown).

[0037] Each vertical panel 106 of side rail 102 may also include openings 114 into which a fork pocket 116 may be mounted, with each fork pocket 116 spanning the width of welded base 100. Fork pockets 116 may be positioned in parallel (e.g., aligned with the X-axis) at a distance apart (e.g., along the Y-axis) to accommodate insertion of forks from a forklift or another lifting machine. According to an implementation, fork pockets 116 may be welded to into openings 114 to provide additional structural rigidity for welded base 100.

[0038] Bottom plate 120 may include a solid metal plate or multiple plates joined with fluid / liquid tight seams. Bottom plate 120 may be joined to side rails 102 and end slats 122 with welds (or another joining method) to form fluid / liquid tight seams. When joined, side rails 102, bottom plate 120, and end slats 122 may form a basin 132 into which fuel tank 200 may be inserted. Basin 132 may be configured to accommodate the entire depth of fuel tank 200, such that the top of fuel tank 200 is at or below the height of (e.g., not higher than) top panel 108 when fuel tank 200 is installed in basin 132 and diesel package 10 is substantially level. Thus, basin 132 provides fuel containment in the event of a leak in fuel tank 200.

[0039] Side plates 134 may be attached (e.g., welded) to an outer surface of each side rail 102. Side plates 134 may, for example, be attached at a longitudinal (e.g., front to back) center of welded base 100. Side plates 134 may include a set of lift mounting holes 136 to enable bolted attachment of lifting bail 500 and a set of fender mounting holes 138 to enable bolted attachment of fender 950, as described further herein. According to an implementation, side plate 134 may be attached at the open ends of horizontal bottom panel 104 and horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., in a parallel plane to vertical panel 106) such that a recess is accessible between side plate 134 and vertical plane 106. The recess may permit access for insertion of hardware (e.g., lock washers, nuts, etc.) when securing bolts through fender mounting holes 138. As described further herein, a set of holes 139 in bottom panel 104 may be used to secure a fender support brace 952 (FIG. 2) that provides a second attachment point for fender 950.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of fuel tank 200. Fuel tank 200 may include dimensions (e.g., length, width, height) to fit into basin 132 of welded base 100. In one implementation, fuel tank 200 may have a clearance fit along the length and width of basin 132 of about 1 centimeter. Fuel tank 200 may be supported by bottom plate 120. According to an implementation, a bottom surface 202 of fuel tank 200 may be contoured to match the shape of bottom plate 120. Lifting tabs 204 may extend above a top surface of fuel tank 200. Lifting tabs 204 may be welded or otherwise secured to a surface of fuel tank 200. In one implementation, lifting tabs 204 may be attached at a longitudinal (e.g., front to back) center of tank 200 on opposite sides. Lifting tabs 204 may provide a lifting point to enable fuel tank 200 to be removed from basin 132 and / or mounting holes for a mounting bolt. Fuel tank 200, when installed in basin 132, may lie below mounting crosspieces 300 that span side rails 102 of welded base 100.

[0041] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of mounting crosspiece 300. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-4B, 6, and 15, mounting crosspiece 300 may include a solid metal plate or multiple plates joined together. Mounting crosspiece 300 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between side rails 102 while supporting engine 20, pump 30, or other components of diesel package 10. Mounting crosspiece 300 may include one or more bends to form base mounting surfaces 302 and a support surface 304. In one implementation, base mounting surfaces 302 may include holes 306 that are configured to align with slots 110 (e.g., inner slots 110a) of side rails 102 such that bolts 150 may be inserted through holes 306 and slots 110 to secure mounting crosspiece 300 to base 100. Support surface 304 may include multiple holes 308 that may be configured to align with mounting holes of engine brackets 310, pump brackets 320, and / or vibration dampening units 330.

[0042] In one implementation, holes 308 of mounting crosspiece 300 may be configured to accept each of engine brackets 310, pump brackets 320, and vibration dampening units 330 such that multiple mounting crosspieces 300 can be used for different purposes and locations on diesel package 10. Furthermore, mounting surface 302 is configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of diesel package 10, since mounting crosspiece 300 can be fully supported by side rails 102 while mounting crosspiece 300 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through holes 306 and slots 110.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of pump bracket 320. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 7, and 15, pump bracket 320 may generally be configured to be secured directly to mounting crosspiece 300 or secured with mounting crosspiece 300 with vibration dampening units 330 therebetween. When installed in diesel package 10, pump bracket 320 may support volute 34 of pump 30. Pump bracket 320 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized pumps 30. Each pump bracket 320 may include a mounting surface 322 with a flange brace 324 supported by a vertical surface 328 therebetween. Flange brace 324 may include a set of bolt slots 326 configured to match a flange pattern (e.g., an SAE International standard pattern) at a suction flange of volute 34. For example, in one implementation, flange brace 324 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt slot pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with a 12-inch suction flange, such that bolt slots 326 align with the bolt pattern at the suction flange. In another implementation, flange brace 324 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt hole pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with an larger or smaller suction flange.

[0044] The height of flange brace 324 (e.g., in the Z-axis) may vary for different pump brackets 320 and corresponding pump 30 sizes. Vertical surface 328 on pump bracket 320 may provide structural support for flange brace 324. The size of vertical surface 328 may vary with the height differences provided for each pump bracket 320.

[0045] Pump bracket 320 may include holes 329 in mounting surface 322 configured to align with some of the holes 308 on mounting crosspiece 300. Pump bracket 320 may be configured to be bolted to mounting crosspiece 300, and the position of mounting crosspiece 300 may be adjusted to accommodate longitudinal alignment of pump 30 and engine 20 relative to welded base 100.

[0046] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of a side piece 510 and a top piece 520, respectively, of lifting bail 500 for diesel package 10. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 8A, 8B, and 15, lifting bail 500 may generally be configured to span the width of welded base 100 between side rails 102 while providing an accessible lifting point for diesel package 10. Lifting bail 500 may comprise two identical side pieces 510 and a single top piece 520. In one implementation, side pieces 510 and top piece 520 of lifting bail 500 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized diesel packages 10. For example, small or large sized side pieces 510 may be used with top piece 520 to ensure that lifting bail 500 accessible over mounted equipment on diesel package 10.

[0047] Each side piece 510 may include a beam 511 with a substantially C-shaped cross section. Side piece 510 may include a set of mounting holes 512 near one end of beam 511 (e.g., a bottom end) and a cross-piece flange 514 near an opposite end of beam 511. Cross-piece flange 514 may be welded and / or keyed to beam 511. Cross-piece flange 514 may include a set of holes 516. Mounting holes 512 may be configured to align with holes 136 in side plate 134.

[0048] Top piece 520 may include a vertical panel 522 with a set of holes 526 on opposite ends (e.g., a left end and a right end) and a set of lifting holes 524 substantially in the middle of panel 522. Lifting holes 254 may be distributed on vertical panel 522 transversely between side pieces 510 to allow for more stable lifting of a diesel package 10 with an offset (e.g., left or right) center of gravity. Holes 526 may be configured to align with at least some of holes 516 in each side piece 520. As shown, for example, in FIG. 1, holes 516 of side pieces 510 and holes 526 of top piece 520 may be aligned and bolts 150 inserted therethrough to form lifting bail 500.

[0049] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of collapsable solar panel support 700 for a diesel package 10. Solar panel support 700 may provide structural support to a solar panel 705 and secure the solar panel to lifting bail 500. In one implementation, solar panel support 700 may be positioned on one of side pieces 510 in a position that allows solar panel support 700 to be folded down during transport and opened during operation.

[0050] Solar panel 705 may include a set of solar cells or panels to capture sunlight and charge a battery 80 and / or provide power to a pump monitoring device (not shown) attached to control panel mount 400 when the power supplied by battery 80 is insufficient to meet the power demand of the pump monitoring device. Solar panel 705 may include monocrystalline solar cells, polycrystalline solar cells, thin film solar cells, and / or another type of solar cells. The type and / or size of solar panel 705 may be selected to meet the maximum power demand of the components of the pump monitoring device indefinitely or over long periods of time (e.g., days or weeks) if battery 80 fails. For example, in some implementations, solar panel 705 may have a capacity of 300 Watts (W) or more.

[0051] According to an implementation, an angle of solar panel support 700 may be fixed with respect to side piece 510 (e.g., at 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees, etc.). In other implementations, solar panel support 700 may be adjustable so that the angle of solar panel 705 may be adjusted with respect to side piece 510 in order to position solar panel 705 to maximize the amount of sunlight absorbed by solar panel 705.

[0052] FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective views of control panel mount 400 and control panel cover 450. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 10A, 10B, and 15, control panel mount 400 may be configured to be bolted to position a control panel 70 relative to engine 20 and other components of diesel package 10. According to an implementation, control panel mount 400 may generally be configured to attach to lifting bale 500 and provide a vertical surface for mounting a control panel 70. Control panel mount 400 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized control panels 70. Each control panel mount 400 may include a side mounting bracket 402 adjoining a vertical mounting surface 404. Mounting surface 404 may include a set of bolt holes 406 configured to match to mounting holes on side piece 510 for a bolted connection. Control panel mount 400 may include an upper horizonal panel 410 and a lower horizontal panel 412.

[0053] Control panel cover 450 may attach to control panel mount 400 and partly enclose a control panel 70 mounted to control panel mount 400. According to an implementation, control panel cover 450 may include a connecting pane 452 with holes 456 that align with holes 406, such that a single set of bolts may secure both control panel mount 400 and control panel cover 450 to side piece 510. Control panel cover 450 may include a top panel 458, a side panel 460, and a back panel 462. Back panel 462 may be secured to upper horizonal panel 410 and a lower horizontal panel 412, such that top panel 458, side panel 460, and back panel 462 form an enclosed void around a back side of vertical mounting surface 404 of control panel mount 400, thus protecting wired connections for control panel 70.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of check valve support 600. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 11, and 15, check valve support 600 may generally be configured to adjustably support (or brace) a check valve 40 that is attached to an exit port of volute 34. Check valve 40 may be attached at an output port of pump volute 34 to prevent backflow into pump 30. In one implementation, check valve 40 may be a convertible check valve that can be selectively oriented at 180 degrees (as shown in FIGS. 1-3) or at 90 degrees (orientation not shown). In other implementations, check valve 40 may include a fixed straight (e.g., 180 degrees) orientation. Depending on the type and orientation of check valve 40, in some arrangements, check valve 40 may extend beyond the width of welded base 100 (e.g., in the X-axis direction, as shown in FIG. 4) when attached to the exit port of volute 34.

[0055] In one implementation, check valve support 600 may include a set of arms 610 connected to a bracket 620. Each arm 610 may include two threaded rods 612 with opposite thread orientations and a turnbuckle 614 therebetween. Each arm 610 may include a ball joint 616 at opposite ends. As shown in FIG. 11, each arm 610 may connect at one end to bracket 620 via one of ball joints 616. Bracket 620 may include a set of holes 622 (e.g., at opposite ends of bracket 620) for bolted attachment to ball joints 616.

[0056] Bracket 620 may also include as set of holes 624 for bolted attachment to check valve 40. For example, bracket 620 may be configured to attach to a flange 42 (e.g., FIG. 2) of check valve 40 using holes that match an existing bolt hole pattern in flange 42. In one implementation, bracket 620 may be configured differently for different types of check valves 40 (e.g., convertible check valves or straight check valves) to align with the orientation of a flange on an installed check valve 40.

[0057] Bracket 620 may be attached to check valve 40 such that arms 610 are positioned on each side (e.g., forward and aft along the Y-axis) of valve 40 body. As shown in FIG. 2, for example, ball joints 616 of arms 610 may attach to angle brackets 650 secured to slots 110 on side rails 102 via bolted connections (e.g., bolts 150). Angle brackets 650 may include 90-degree angle brackets with a first surface to receive bolts through slots 110 and a second surface with holes to receive threaded studs from ball joints 616. Thus, the joining location of arms to side rail 102, and the corresponding angles of arms 610 relative to side rails 102, may be adjustable.

[0058] When check valve support 600 is connected to side rails 102 (e.g., via angle brackets 650) and the check valve 40 (e.g., flange 42), turnbuckles 614 may be threaded to extend threaded rods 612 and put arms 610 into compression. When in compression, arms 610 allow transfer of the check valve and associated piping loads into the welded base 100, rather than relying on the moment loading of output flange 38. Check valve support 600 may provide strain relief / alleviation for the check valve 40 while also being fully adjustable for various configurations of pump 30 and sizes of check valve 40, even if check valve 40 extends beyond the width of base 100.

[0059] While shown with a two-arm configuration in FIG. 11, in other implementations, check valve support 600 may use a single arm 610. For example, a single arm 610 may be attached between bracket 620 and side rail 102.

[0060] FIGS. 12-14 show various components of trailer conversion kit 900 for diesel package 10. More particularly, FIG. 12 is a perspective view of trailer tongue 910, FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a leveling jack mount 920, and FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a trailer light box 930. Trailer conversion kit 900 may also include wheel / axle assembly 940 and fenders 950, as shown in FIGS. 1-4B and 15. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3 and 12-15, trailer conversion kit 900 may be added to welded base 100 to reversibly convert diesel package 10 from a drag skid configuration to a wheeled trailer configuration.

[0061] Trailer tongue 910 may include a welded towing frame, such as an A-frame, configured to be bolted to welded base 100. In one implementation, trailer tongue 910 may include a pair of mounts 911a and 911b (collectively referred to as mounts 911) for attaching to welded base 100. Mounts 911 may include two mounting surfaces 912a / 912b (collectively referred to as surfaces 912) and 914a / 914b (collectively referred to as surfaces 914) for each side of welded base 100. Surfaces 912 may be substantially horizontal surfaces that are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) portions of horizontal top panels 108 of side rails 102. Mounting holes 916 in surfaces 912 may be configured to align with slots 110 to enable bolted attachment of mounting surfaces 912 to side rails 102. Surfaces 914 may be substantially vertical surfaces (i.e., orthogonal to surfaces 912). Mounting holes 918 in surfaces 914 may be configured to align with bolt holes 128 of end portion 124a to enable bolted attachment of mounting surfaces 914 to end portion 124a.

[0062] Jack mount 920 may be configured to support a leveling jack 60 for the wheeled trailer configuration. Jack mount 920 may include a plate 922 with mounting holes 924 configured to align with bolt holes 131 in one of end slats (e.g., back end slat 122b). Bolts 150 may be inserted through mounting holes 924 and bolt holes 131 to secure jack mount 920 to welded base 100. Jack mount 920 may also include a supporting cylinder 926. In implementation, cylinder 926 may extend orthogonally from plate 922 and may be configured to selectively support and align a leveling jack 60 in either a vertical orientation (e.g., for utilizing leveling jack, as shown in FIGS. 1-3) or a horizontal orientation (e.g., during transport of diesel package 10). Additionally, in some implementations, another jack mount 920 may be bolted to trailer tongue 910.

[0063] Trailer light box 930 may include a structure to mount a taillight fixture onto welded base 100. In one implementation, light box 930 may be formed into multiple surfaces from a single metal sheet. Trailer light box 930 may include tabs 932 with mounting holes 934 configured to align with bolt holes 131 in one of end slats (e.g., back end slat 122b). An opening 936 may be provided in which a taillight may be secured and viewed.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 15, wheel / axle assembly 940 may be secured / bolted to an underside of welded base 100 such that wheels 942 are positioned beyond the width of welded base 100. Fenders 950 may be affixed to welded base 100 over wheels 942. Fenders 950 may include a plastic or metal structure positioned above each of wheels 942. On a forward facing end, fenders 950 may be bolted to side plate 134 using fender mounting holes 138 (FIG. 4A). On a back facing end, a fender support brace 952 installed between bottom panel 104 and top panel 108 of side rail 102 may provide an attachment surface for fender 950. Each support brace 952 may include an upper flange (not visible) and a lower flange 954 (FIG. 2), both flanges being configured with holes to receive a bolt therethrough. The upper flange may be bolted to top panel 108 by inserting bolts 150 through slots 110. Lower flange 954 may be bolted to bottom panel 104 by inserting bolts 150 through holes 139 (FIG. 4A).

[0065] FIG. 16 is a flow chart of an example process 1600 for assembling diesel package 10. Process 1600 may be performed, for example, by a supplier of diesel skid assemblies, a pump manufacturer, or some other entity associated with providing pumps and engines to work sites.

[0066] Process 1600 may include selecting a welded base sized for a pump class (block 1605) and determining if a trailer configuration is required (block 1610). For example, a small, medium, or large base 100 may be selected to accommodate an engine 20 and pump 30 based on horsepower and / or other site-related requirements. Based on customer specifications, for example, it may be determined whether a trailer configuration is required for the selected base.

[0067] If a trailer configuration is required (block 1610—Yes), process 1600 may include attaching a trailer conversion kit to the welded base (block 1615). For example, components of trailer conversion kit 900 may be bolted to welded base 100. Components of trailer conversion kit 900 may include trailer tongue 910, jack mounts 920, light boxes 930, wheel / axle assembly 940, and fenders 950, among other components.

[0068] If a trailer configuration is not required (block 1610—No) or after attaching the trailer conversion kit, process 1600 may include one or more of selecting mounting crosspieces and resting the mounting crosspieces on the base (block 1620) and selecting a pump bracket and attaching the pump bracket to a mounting crosspiece (block 1625). For example, multiple mounting crosspieces 300 may be selected from a group of differently-sized mounting crosspieces to match a size of welded base 100 and / or a footprint of a chosen engine 20 type. Mounting crosspiece 300 may be configured to match a footprint of multiple different engines 20. Similarly, a pump bracket 320 may be selected from a group of differently-sized pump brackets to match a size and flange shape for a chosen volute 34. Mounting crosspieces 300 may be placed on base 100 spanning from a right side rail 102 to a left side rail 102 so that each end of mounting crosspieces 300 sits or rests on one of horizontal top panel 108. In one implementation, vibration dampening units 330 may be installed between mounting crosspiece 300 and pump bracket 320.

[0069] Process 1600 may further include attaching a centrifugal pump to the pump bracket (block 1630) and attaching a coupling bracket to the centrifugal pump (block 1635). For example, pump bracket 320 may be attached to a suction flange of volute 34 and coupling bracket 50 may be connected to a frame of pump 30 over a pump input shaft. In one implementation, one or more mounting crosspiece 300 may be partially secured (e.g., bolted) to side rails 102.

[0070] Process 1600 may additionally include attaching the engine to the mounting crosspiece and coupling the engine to the centrifugal pump (block 1640) securing the mounting crosspiece to the base (block 1645) and connecting additional support backets for the engine (block 1650). For example, the selected engine 20 may be bolted to one or more mounting crosspieces 300. The engine 20 / crosspiece 300 combination may be positioned such that an output shaft of engine 20 may be coupled to an input shaft of pump 30, which may cause the coupling bracket 50 to align with engine 20. Coupling bracket 50 may be bolted to engine 20. Mounting crosspieces 300 may then be secured / bolted to side rails 102. For example, bolts 150 may be inserted through holes 306 of mounting crosspiece 300 into slots 110 of horizontal top panel 108 and tightened. One or more engine brackets 310 may then be mounted to engine 20 and side rails 102.

[0071] Process 1600 may also include connecting a check valve assembly to the centrifugal pump (block 1655) and attaching a check valve support between the check valve and the base (block 1660). For example, a check valve 40 may be attached at an output flange 38 of volute 34. Check valve support 600 may be secured to check valve 40 (e.g., by bolting bracket 620 to a flange 42 of check valve 40) and one of side rails 102 (e.g., by bolting ball joint 616 ends to an angle bracket 650). Adjustable arms 610 may then be extended slightly by rotating turnbuckles 614 to place arms 610 into compression for supporting check valve 40.

[0072] Process 1600 may additionally include securing the lifting bail to the base (block 1665), attaching an electrical cabinet to the lifting bail (block 1670), and attaching the electrical panel and pump accessories (block 1675). For example, a top piece 520 may be attached to two side pieces 510 to form lifting bail 500, which may then be bolted to side plates 134 using selected holes 136 and holes 512. A control panel mount 400 may be selected from one of multiple different sizes to accommodate a control panel 70 sized for the selected pump 30 / engine 20 combination on diesel package 10. The control panel mount 400 may be secured to one of side pieces 510 using mounting section 402. A control panel 70 may be secured to mounting surface 404, and other accessories (e.g., priming system, etc.) may be added to pump 30, if necessary.

[0073] As described herein, a diesel driven pump package may convert from a drag skid to a wheeled trailer. A skid assembly includes a welded base with a basin. A removeable fuel tank may fit within the basin. Multiple mounting crosspieces may extend over the fuel tank overlap side rails of the welded base and are bolted to the side rails via longitudinal slots. An engine bracket may be mounted on a first one of the multiple mounting crosspieces to support an engine. A pump bracket may be mounted on a second one of the multiple mounting crosspieces to supports a pump. A check valve support may brace a check valve extending from the pump volute. The check valve support may include an adjustable arm that extends to put the adjustable arm in compression between the check valve and the welded base. A trailer package may removably attach to the skid assembly to convert the skid assembly to a wheeled trailer.

[0074] Dual rows of slots (e.g. slots 110), running the entire length of the skid, allow for mounting of multiple engine sizes, manufactures, and pump models without requiring unique weldments. The modular skid design also allows for manipulation of the location of the center of gravity by moving the pump and engine assembly axially in the slots. Additionally, the lifting bail has three pickup points for in-the-field lateral adjustments. Additional options that may be mounted on the slots include dual direction area lighting for work / setup / maintenance in the dark.

[0075] While a series of blocks has been described with regard to the processes illustrated in FIG. 16, the order of the blocks may be modified according to other embodiments. Further, non-dependent blocks may be performed in parallel. Additionally, other processes described in this description may be modified and / or non-dependent operations may be performed in parallel.

[0076] As set forth in this description and illustrated by the drawings, reference is made to “an exemplary embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“embodiments,” etc., which may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with an embodiment(s). However, the use of the phrase or term “an embodiment,”“embodiments,” etc., in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to all embodiments described, nor does it necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments necessarily mutually exclusive of other embodiment(s). The same applies to the term “implementation,”“implementations,” etc.

[0077] The foregoing description of embodiments provides illustration, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Accordingly, modifications to the embodiments described herein may be possible. For example, various modifications and changes may be made thereto, and additional embodiments may be implemented, without departing from the broader scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The description and drawings are accordingly to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0078] The terms “a,”“an,” and “the” are intended to be interpreted to include one or more items. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to be interpreted as “based, at least in part, on,” unless explicitly stated otherwise. The term “and / or” is intended to be interpreted to include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated items. Terms describing relative position (e.g., upper / lower, above / below, vertical / horizontal, etc.) are for purposes of description and are not intended to exclude other orientations of embodiments described herein. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example.” Any embodiment or implementation described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations.

[0079] Use of ordinal terms such as “first,”“second,”“third,” etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another, the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, the temporal order in which instructions executed by a device are performed, etc., but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. Similarly, relative terms, such as right, left, front, rear, top, bottom, vertical, horizonal, etc. are used to describe relative locations and positioning of various elements described herein and do not constitute absolute or permanent directions or positions relative to an external perspective.

[0080] No element, act, or instruction used in the description of the present application should be construed as critical or essential to the invention unless explicitly described as such.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements. Also, the following detailed description does not limit the invention.

[0019]Motors and pumps of different sizes may be combined to meet customer specifications and / or field requirements. A skid assembly is generally configured to axially align an output shaft of a given driver (e.g., an internal combustion engine) with an input shaft of a given pump when the engine and pump are mounted on a frame or base. The frame is shaped to account for the dimensions of each motor-pump combination and provide the required alignment of shafts when the motor and pump are mounted on the frame.

[0020]Skid assemblies are typically moved as a unit to, from, and within a job site. In some instances, the skid assembly may be mounted on or integral with a wheeled trailer. The skid or frame must be rigid and robust to maintain alignment of...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 678,595, filed Aug. 2, 2024, and 63 / 715,800, filed Nov. 4, 2024, both titled “Modular Skid with Check Valve Support for Pumps with Electric Motors,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 737,864, filed Dec. 23, 2024, titled “Convertible Modular Skid with Check Valve Support for Pumps with Internal Combustion Engines,” the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Portable pump systems typically include a pump coupled to an engine and other components and mounted on a fabricated skid. A skid assembly includes the pump itself (such as a centrifugal pump) and a driver (such as a diesel engine) that is mounted to a steel base. Such skid assemblies are configured to permit movement of an entire pump system without requiring disassembly and re-assembly at a location of use.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and rear perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation described herein;

[0004] FIG. 3 is a left side perspective view of the diesel driven pump package of FIGS. 1 and 2;

[0005] FIGS. 4A and 4B are different left and right side perspective views of a welded base for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0006] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fuel tank for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0007] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a mounting crosspiece for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0008] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a pump bracket for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0009] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of a side piece and top piece, respectively, of a lifting bail for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0010] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a collapsible solar panel support for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0011] FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective views of a control panel mount and a control panel cover, respectively, for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0012] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a check valve support for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0013] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a trailer tongue for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0014] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a leveling jack mount for a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0015] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a trailer light box for a diesel a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation;

[0016] FIG. 15 is an assembly view of an example embodiment of a diesel driven pump package; and

[0017] FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of an example process for assembling a diesel driven pump package, according to an implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements. Also, the following detailed description does not limit the invention.

[0019] Motors and pumps of different sizes may be combined to meet customer specifications and / or field requirements. A skid assembly is generally configured to axially align an output shaft of a given driver (e.g., an internal combustion engine) with an input shaft of a given pump when the engine and pump are mounted on a frame or base. The frame is shaped to account for the dimensions of each motor-pump combination and provide the required alignment of shafts when the motor and pump are mounted on the frame.

[0020] Skid assemblies are typically moved as a unit to, from, and within a job site. In some instances, the skid assembly may be mounted on or integral with a wheeled trailer. The skid or frame must be rigid and robust to maintain alignment of the pump, motor, and other components as the skid is dragged, rolled, or lifted.

[0021] Trailers and skids for pumps driven by internal combustion engines typically take the form of fully-welded single body units, where the fuel tank is integrated as part of the body of the trailer or skid frame. There is no provision for self-containment of hazardous materials (oil, coolant, fuel, etc.). As part of a trailer or skid assembly, a check valve may be connected at an outlet of the centrifugal pump. The skid assembly is typically shipped with the check valve in a cantilevered arrangement, having one end of the check valve attached to the pump and the other end accessible for connection at a job site. The check valve support and other supports are welded in place or only adjustable in the vertical axis. This prevents the ability to make adjustments and limits flexibility to mount different pump models and sizes on the same skid / trailer frame. The skid / trailer frame must be modified with each build, since the supports otherwise can be insufficient for certain equipment sizes / configurations and the center of gravity can be off center for a flat pick-up point.

[0022] Implementations described herein provide a package for a pump driven by an internal combustion engine, such as a diesel engine. The package may be referred to herein as a diesel driven pump package or, more simply, a diesel package, although other types of engines may also be used. The diesel driven pump package can be converted from a drag skid to a wheeled trailer and vice versa. A trailer tongue, jack mounts, and other parts for the trailer can be removed and replaced with parts to facilitate transition to a drag skid. According to an implementation, the diesel driven pump package includes a removable fuel tank for cleaning and or replacement upon failure, which makes the package serviceable without needing to discard the main body (e.g., the structure that carries the vehicle identification number (VIN) required for vehicle registrations). The fuel tank may be fully contained in a liquid-tight main body, which ensures that the diesel driven pump package provides double fuel containment.

[0023] The diesel driven pump package may also include an adjustable check valve support using an all-thread tie-rod design which allows for very flexible support adjustment, such that the same support assembly can be used to accommodate various different pump or check valve sizes. The main trailer body may convert to a drag skid and is designed with slots running the length of the skid, which allows mounting of multiple engine sizes, manufactures, and pump models without needing unique weldments. The diesel driven pump package also allows manipulation of the location of the center of gravity by moving the pump and engine assembly axially in the slots.

[0024] In some embodiments, the main components (e.g., diesel engine, pump, and check valve) may have vibration dampening which allows the package to be quieter and smoother when the engine and pump are operating. The diesel driven pump package may also include a solar panel to charge a battery and may collapse for travel. The lifting bail may have multiple pickup points for in-field lateral adjustments.

[0025] FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and rear perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a diesel package 10. FIG. 3 is a left side perspective view of diesel package 10, and FIG. 15 is an assembly view of diesel package 10. Diesel package 10 may include a welded base 100, a fuel tank 200, mounting crosspieces 300, a control panel mount 400 with a control panel cover 450, a lifting bail 500, a check valve support 600, and a collapsable solar pant mount 700. Each of fuel tank 200, mounting crosspiece 300, control panel mount 400, control panel cover 450, lifting bail 500, check valve support 600, and collapsable solar pant mount 700 may be bolted or otherwise removably attached to welded base 100 to form a drag skid package.

[0026] A trailer conversion kit 900 may include additional components configured to be bolted to welded base 100 to convert the drag skid package to a trailer package. As described further herein, trailer conversion kit 900 may include a trailer tongue 910, one or more jack mounts 920, one or more light boxes 930, a wheel / axle assembly 940, and fenders 950.

[0027] An engine 20 may be mounted on diesel package 10 via one or more mounting crosspieces 300 selected to position engine 20 in alignment with a corresponding pump 30. More particularly, one or more engine brackets 315 may be secured to mounting crosspieces 300 with vibration dampening units 330 therebetween. Engine 20 may include, for example, a diesel engine that drives pump 30.

[0028] Pump 30 may include, for example, a centrifugal pump with, among other components, a bearing frame 32, a volute 34, an inlet 36, and an output flange 38. Pump 30 may be mounted on diesel package 10 via one or more mounting crosspieces 300 to position pump 30 in alignment with engine 20. More particularly, one or more pump brackets 320 may be secured to mounting crosspieces 300 with vibration dampening units 330 therebetween. As described further herein, pump brackets 320 may be selected from one of multiple sizes / heights to align an input shaft of pump 30 with a drive shaft of engine 20 when engine 20 and pump 30 are mounted on diesel package 10.

[0029] Each mounting crosspiece 300 may be removably secured to portions of welded base 100 such that the mounting locations of engine 20 and pump 30 may be adjusted longitudinally (front-to-back) allow for adjustment of the center of gravity or general alignment. In particular, slots in welded base 100 allow mounting crosspieces 300 to be moved forward or backward relative to base 100. This adjustment allows diesel package 10 to be assembled and customized so that package 10 can be picked up while level. Check valve support 600 may be secured to portions of welded base 100 to support a check valve 40 of pump 30. A coupling bracket 50 may be used to connect the mounted engine 20 and pump 30 around the coupling of the engine output shaft and the pump input shaft.

[0030] In one implementation, a single base 100 size can be used for a range of multiple engine 20 and pump 30 sizes. For example, a small, medium, and large size base 100 may be used to support multiple engine horsepower (HP) ratings in a supplier's product line and the accompanying pumps. A particular frame size may be selected, for example, based on a range of horsepower requirements (e.g., maximum horsepower at a given shaft revolutions-per-minute (RPM)) for a pump system, which may generally correspond to necessary component sizes (e.g., sizes of pump, engine, controller, etc.). Different sizes of pump brackets 320 may be selected and attached to one of the welded bases 100 to accommodate different engine / pump combinations.

[0031] Bolts 150 may be used for the bolt-on assembly. As used herein, the term bolts (such as bolts 150) may include threaded bolts (lag bolts), bolts and corresponding nuts, bolt / washer / nut combinations, screws, or other threaded fasteners, that may be used to secure components when holes in different mated surfaces are aligned. In other implementations, bolt 150 may encompass another type of removable fastener (a cotter-pin, clip, rivet, etc.) that can secure components of diesel package 10. In some implementations, bolts 150 may be provided in different sizes for different applications on diesel package 10.

[0032] Although FIGS. 1-3 shows exemplary components of diesel package 10, in other implementations, diesel package 10 may include fewer components, different components, differently arranged components, or additional components than depicted in FIGS. 1-3. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more components of diesel package 10 may perform functions described as being performed by one or more other components of diesel package 10.

[0033] FIGS. 4A and 4B are different left side perspective views of welded base 100. Welded base 100 may be manufactured from a metal material, such as powder-coated steel, stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, and / or another type of metal. In other implementations, base 100 may be made from a composite material. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-4B, welded base 100 may include a pair of side rails 102 connected by a bottom plate 120 and end slats 122. Side rails 102, bottom plate 120, and end slats 122a / 122b (referred to collectively as end slats 122) may have welded or other permanent or semi-permanent connections / connection points.

[0034] In one implementation, each of side rails 102 may have a substantially C-shaped cross section with a horizontal bottom panel 104, a vertical panel 106, and a horizontal top panel 108. Slots 110a and 110b (referred to herein collectively as slots 110) may be included on panels 108 throughout the length of side rails 102 for placement of the different bolt-on components (e.g., mounting crosspieces 300, check valve support 600, etc.) to facilitate mounting of engine 20 and pump 30. Multiple configurations and combinations of the bolt-on supports allow for different pump and engine combinations to be mounted on identical skid bases 100. Additional holes 112 may be included on horizontal bottom panel 104 for attachment of other components (e.g., a trailer conversion kit). As shown in FIG. 4A, for example, horizontal top panel 108 may include two parallel rows of slots 110. Slots 110a may be on the inside of horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., closer to vertical panel 106), and slots 110b may be on the outside of horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., further from vertical panel 106). As described further herein, the two parallel rows of slots 110a and 110b may facilitate secure mounting of components across side rails 102 (such as mounting crosspieces 300) and on a single side rail 102 (such as engine brackets 310 (FIG. 3) or a tray 82 for a battery 80 (FIGS. 1 and 2)).

[0035] End slats 122 may be welded, for example, to each side rail 102, providing a fixed width for welded base 100 (e.g., along an X-axis of FIG. 4A). End slats 122a may be affixed, for example, at a front end (e.g., along a Y-axis of FIG. 4A) of each side rail 102, while end slat 122b may be affixed, for example, at a back end of each side rail 102. According to one implementation, end slats 122 be configured to bend or extend around respective ends of side rails 102 such that end portions 124a and 124b (referred to collectively as end portions 124) may be attached at the exposed ends of horizontal bottom panel 104 and horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., with end portions 124 in a parallel plane to vertical panel 106). End portions 124 may include fixture openings 126 configured to receive taillight fixtures for trailer configurations. End portions 124 may form a partially covered recess accessible between each end portion 124 and vertical plane 106. The recess may permit access for insertion of hardware (e.g., lock washers, nuts, etc.) when securing bolts through slots 110 in horizontal top panel 108 and / or fixture openings 126.

[0036] In one implementation, front end slat 122a may include bolt holes 128 in end portion 124a that are configured to align with mounting holes (e.g., mounting holes 914a / 914b, FIG. 12) of trailer tongue 910. In one implementation, back end slat 122b may include bolt holes 130 in end portion 124b that are configured to align with mounting holes of a light box 930 (FIG. 14). End slats 122 may also include bolt holes 131 configured to align with mounting holes of jack mounts 920 (FIG. 13). In another implementation, both end slats 122a and 122b may be provided with identical configurations to be interchangeably installed in either a front or back end for welded base 100. When configured as a drag skid, jack mounts 920 may be removed and bolt holes 131 may be used for mounting other components, such as a chain mount or tow bar (not shown).

[0037] Each vertical panel 106 of side rail 102 may also include openings 114 into which a fork pocket 116 may be mounted, with each fork pocket 116 spanning the width of welded base 100. Fork pockets 116 may be positioned in parallel (e.g., aligned with the X-axis) at a distance apart (e.g., along the Y-axis) to accommodate insertion of forks from a forklift or another lifting machine. According to an implementation, fork pockets 116 may be welded to into openings 114 to provide additional structural rigidity for welded base 100.

[0038] Bottom plate 120 may include a solid metal plate or multiple plates joined with fluid / liquid tight seams. Bottom plate 120 may be joined to side rails 102 and end slats 122 with welds (or another joining method) to form fluid / liquid tight seams. When joined, side rails 102, bottom plate 120, and end slats 122 may form a basin 132 into which fuel tank 200 may be inserted. Basin 132 may be configured to accommodate the entire depth of fuel tank 200, such that the top of fuel tank 200 is at or below the height of (e.g., not higher than) top panel 108 when fuel tank 200 is installed in basin 132 and diesel package 10 is substantially level. Thus, basin 132 provides fuel containment in the event of a leak in fuel tank 200.

[0039] Side plates 134 may be attached (e.g., welded) to an outer surface of each side rail 102. Side plates 134 may, for example, be attached at a longitudinal (e.g., front to back) center of welded base 100. Side plates 134 may include a set of lift mounting holes 136 to enable bolted attachment of lifting bail 500 and a set of fender mounting holes 138 to enable bolted attachment of fender 950, as described further herein. According to an implementation, side plate 134 may be attached at the open ends of horizontal bottom panel 104 and horizontal top panel 108 (e.g., in a parallel plane to vertical panel 106) such that a recess is accessible between side plate 134 and vertical plane 106. The recess may permit access for insertion of hardware (e.g., lock washers, nuts, etc.) when securing bolts through fender mounting holes 138. As described further herein, a set of holes 139 in bottom panel 104 may be used to secure a fender support brace 952 (FIG. 2) that provides a second attachment point for fender 950.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of fuel tank 200. Fuel tank 200 may include dimensions (e.g., length, width, height) to fit into basin 132 of welded base 100. In one implementation, fuel tank 200 may have a clearance fit along the length and width of basin 132 of about 1 centimeter. Fuel tank 200 may be supported by bottom plate 120. According to an implementation, a bottom surface 202 of fuel tank 200 may be contoured to match the shape of bottom plate 120. Lifting tabs 204 may extend above a top surface of fuel tank 200. Lifting tabs 204 may be welded or otherwise secured to a surface of fuel tank 200. In one implementation, lifting tabs 204 may be attached at a longitudinal (e.g., front to back) center of tank 200 on opposite sides. Lifting tabs 204 may provide a lifting point to enable fuel tank 200 to be removed from basin 132 and / or mounting holes for a mounting bolt. Fuel tank 200, when installed in basin 132, may lie below mounting crosspieces 300 that span side rails 102 of welded base 100.

[0041] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of mounting crosspiece 300. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-4B, 6, and 15, mounting crosspiece 300 may include a solid metal plate or multiple plates joined together. Mounting crosspiece 300 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between side rails 102 while supporting engine 20, pump 30, or other components of diesel package 10. Mounting crosspiece 300 may include one or more bends to form base mounting surfaces 302 and a support surface 304. In one implementation, base mounting surfaces 302 may include holes 306 that are configured to align with slots 110 (e.g., inner slots 110a) of side rails 102 such that bolts 150 may be inserted through holes 306 and slots 110 to secure mounting crosspiece 300 to base 100. Support surface 304 may include multiple holes 308 that may be configured to align with mounting holes of engine brackets 310, pump brackets 320, and / or vibration dampening units 330.

[0042] In one implementation, holes 308 of mounting crosspiece 300 may be configured to accept each of engine brackets 310, pump brackets 320, and vibration dampening units 330 such that multiple mounting crosspieces 300 can be used for different purposes and locations on diesel package 10. Furthermore, mounting surface 302 is configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of diesel package 10, since mounting crosspiece 300 can be fully supported by side rails 102 while mounting crosspiece 300 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through holes 306 and slots 110.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of pump bracket 320. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 7, and 15, pump bracket 320 may generally be configured to be secured directly to mounting crosspiece 300 or secured with mounting crosspiece 300 with vibration dampening units 330 therebetween. When installed in diesel package 10, pump bracket 320 may support volute 34 of pump 30. Pump bracket 320 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized pumps 30. Each pump bracket 320 may include a mounting surface 322 with a flange brace 324 supported by a vertical surface 328 therebetween. Flange brace 324 may include a set of bolt slots 326 configured to match a flange pattern (e.g., an SAE International standard pattern) at a suction flange of volute 34. For example, in one implementation, flange brace 324 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt slot pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with a 12-inch suction flange, such that bolt slots 326 align with the bolt pattern at the suction flange. In another implementation, flange brace 324 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt hole pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with an larger or smaller suction flange.

[0044] The height of flange brace 324 (e.g., in the Z-axis) may vary for different pump brackets 320 and corresponding pump 30 sizes. Vertical surface 328 on pump bracket 320 may provide structural support for flange brace 324. The size of vertical surface 328 may vary with the height differences provided for each pump bracket 320.

[0045] Pump bracket 320 may include holes 329 in mounting surface 322 configured to align with some of the holes 308 on mounting crosspiece 300. Pump bracket 320 may be configured to be bolted to mounting crosspiece 300, and the position of mounting crosspiece 300 may be adjusted to accommodate longitudinal alignment of pump 30 and engine 20 relative to welded base 100.

[0046] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of a side piece 510 and a top piece 520, respectively, of lifting bail 500 for diesel package 10. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 8A, 8B, and 15, lifting bail 500 may generally be configured to span the width of welded base 100 between side rails 102 while providing an accessible lifting point for diesel package 10. Lifting bail 500 may comprise two identical side pieces 510 and a single top piece 520. In one implementation, side pieces 510 and top piece 520 of lifting bail 500 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized diesel packages 10. For example, small or large sized side pieces 510 may be used with top piece 520 to ensure that lifting bail 500 accessible over mounted equipment on diesel package 10.

[0047] Each side piece 510 may include a beam 511 with a substantially C-shaped cross section. Side piece 510 may include a set of mounting holes 512 near one end of beam 511 (e.g., a bottom end) and a cross-piece flange 514 near an opposite end of beam 511. Cross-piece flange 514 may be welded and / or keyed to beam 511. Cross-piece flange 514 may include a set of holes 516. Mounting holes 512 may be configured to align with holes 136 in side plate 134.

[0048] Top piece 520 may include a vertical panel 522 with a set of holes 526 on opposite ends (e.g., a left end and a right end) and a set of lifting holes 524 substantially in the middle of panel 522. Lifting holes 254 may be distributed on vertical panel 522 transversely between side pieces 510 to allow for more stable lifting of a diesel package 10 with an offset (e.g., left or right) center of gravity. Holes 526 may be configured to align with at least some of holes 516 in each side piece 520. As shown, for example, in FIG. 1, holes 516 of side pieces 510 and holes 526 of top piece 520 may be aligned and bolts 150 inserted therethrough to form lifting bail 500.

[0049] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of collapsable solar panel support 700 for a diesel package 10. Solar panel support 700 may provide structural support to a solar panel 705 and secure the solar panel to lifting bail 500. In one implementation, solar panel support 700 may be positioned on one of side pieces 510 in a position that allows solar panel support 700 to be folded down during transport and opened during operation.

[0050] Solar panel 705 may include a set of solar cells or panels to capture sunlight and charge a battery 80 and / or provide power to a pump monitoring device (not shown) attached to control panel mount 400 when the power supplied by battery 80 is insufficient to meet the power demand of the pump monitoring device. Solar panel 705 may include monocrystalline solar cells, polycrystalline solar cells, thin film solar cells, and / or another type of solar cells. The type and / or size of solar panel 705 may be selected to meet the maximum power demand of the components of the pump monitoring device indefinitely or over long periods of time (e.g., days or weeks) if battery 80 fails. For example, in some implementations, solar panel 705 may have a capacity of 300 Watts (W) or more.

[0051] According to an implementation, an angle of solar panel support 700 may be fixed with respect to side piece 510 (e.g., at 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 30 degrees, etc.). In other implementations, solar panel support 700 may be adjustable so that the angle of solar panel 705 may be adjusted with respect to side piece 510 in order to position solar panel 705 to maximize the amount of sunlight absorbed by solar panel 705.

[0052] FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective views of control panel mount 400 and control panel cover 450. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 10A, 10B, and 15, control panel mount 400 may be configured to be bolted to position a control panel 70 relative to engine 20 and other components of diesel package 10. According to an implementation, control panel mount 400 may generally be configured to attach to lifting bale 500 and provide a vertical surface for mounting a control panel 70. Control panel mount 400 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized control panels 70. Each control panel mount 400 may include a side mounting bracket 402 adjoining a vertical mounting surface 404. Mounting surface 404 may include a set of bolt holes 406 configured to match to mounting holes on side piece 510 for a bolted connection. Control panel mount 400 may include an upper horizonal panel 410 and a lower horizontal panel 412.

[0053] Control panel cover 450 may attach to control panel mount 400 and partly enclose a control panel 70 mounted to control panel mount 400. According to an implementation, control panel cover 450 may include a connecting pane 452 with holes 456 that align with holes 406, such that a single set of bolts may secure both control panel mount 400 and control panel cover 450 to side piece 510. Control panel cover 450 may include a top panel 458, a side panel 460, and a back panel 462. Back panel 462 may be secured to upper horizonal panel 410 and a lower horizontal panel 412, such that top panel 458, side panel 460, and back panel 462 form an enclosed void around a back side of vertical mounting surface 404 of control panel mount 400, thus protecting wired connections for control panel 70.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of check valve support 600. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 11, and 15, check valve support 600 may generally be configured to adjustably support (or brace) a check valve 40 that is attached to an exit port of volute 34. Check valve 40 may be attached at an output port of pump volute 34 to prevent backflow into pump 30. In one implementation, check valve 40 may be a convertible check valve that can be selectively oriented at 180 degrees (as shown in FIGS. 1-3) or at 90 degrees (orientation not shown). In other implementations, check valve 40 may include a fixed straight (e.g., 180 degrees) orientation. Depending on the type and orientation of check valve 40, in some arrangements, check valve 40 may extend beyond the width of welded base 100 (e.g., in the X-axis direction, as shown in FIG. 4) when attached to the exit port of volute 34.

[0055] In one implementation, check valve support 600 may include a set of arms 610 connected to a bracket 620. Each arm 610 may include two threaded rods 612 with opposite thread orientations and a turnbuckle 614 therebetween. Each arm 610 may include a ball joint 616 at opposite ends. As shown in FIG. 11, each arm 610 may connect at one end to bracket 620 via one of ball joints 616. Bracket 620 may include a set of holes 622 (e.g., at opposite ends of bracket 620) for bolted attachment to ball joints 616.

[0056] Bracket 620 may also include as set of holes 624 for bolted attachment to check valve 40. For example, bracket 620 may be configured to attach to a flange 42 (e.g., FIG. 2) of check valve 40 using holes that match an existing bolt hole pattern in flange 42. In one implementation, bracket 620 may be configured differently for different types of check valves 40 (e.g., convertible check valves or straight check valves) to align with the orientation of a flange on an installed check valve 40.

[0057] Bracket 620 may be attached to check valve 40 such that arms 610 are positioned on each side (e.g., forward and aft along the Y-axis) of valve 40 body. As shown in FIG. 2, for example, ball joints 616 of arms 610 may attach to angle brackets 650 secured to slots 110 on side rails 102 via bolted connections (e.g., bolts 150). Angle brackets 650 may include 90-degree angle brackets with a first surface to receive bolts through slots 110 and a second surface with holes to receive threaded studs from ball joints 616. Thus, the joining location of arms to side rail 102, and the corresponding angles of arms 610 relative to side rails 102, may be adjustable.

[0058] When check valve support 600 is connected to side rails 102 (e.g., via angle brackets 650) and the check valve 40 (e.g., flange 42), turnbuckles 614 may be threaded to extend threaded rods 612 and put arms 610 into compression. When in compression, arms 610 allow transfer of the check valve and associated piping loads into the welded base 100, rather than relying on the moment loading of output flange 38. Check valve support 600 may provide strain relief / alleviation for the check valve 40 while also being fully adjustable for various configurations of pump 30 and sizes of check valve 40, even if check valve 40 extends beyond the width of base 100.

[0059] While shown with a two-arm configuration in FIG. 11, in other implementations, check valve support 600 may use a single arm 610. For example, a single arm 610 may be attached between bracket 620 and side rail 102.

[0060] FIGS. 12-14 show various components of trailer conversion kit 900 for diesel package 10. More particularly, FIG. 12 is a perspective view of trailer tongue 910, FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a leveling jack mount 920, and FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a trailer light box 930. Trailer conversion kit 900 may also include wheel / axle assembly 940 and fenders 950, as shown in FIGS. 1-4B and 15. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3 and 12-15, trailer conversion kit 900 may be added to welded base 100 to reversibly convert diesel package 10 from a drag skid configuration to a wheeled trailer configuration.

[0061] Trailer tongue 910 may include a welded towing frame, such as an A-frame, configured to be bolted to welded base 100. In one implementation, trailer tongue 910 may include a pair of mounts 911a and 911b (collectively referred to as mounts 911) for attaching to welded base 100. Mounts 911 may include two mounting surfaces 912a / 912b (collectively referred to as surfaces 912) and 914a / 914b (collectively referred to as surfaces 914) for each side of welded base 100. Surfaces 912 may be substantially horizontal surfaces that are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) portions of horizontal top panels 108 of side rails 102. Mounting holes 916 in surfaces 912 may be configured to align with slots 110 to enable bolted attachment of mounting surfaces 912 to side rails 102. Surfaces 914 may be substantially vertical surfaces (i.e., orthogonal to surfaces 912). Mounting holes 918 in surfaces 914 may be configured to align with bolt holes 128 of end portion 124a to enable bolted attachment of mounting surfaces 914 to end portion 124a.

[0062] Jack mount 920 may be configured to support a leveling jack 60 for the wheeled trailer configuration. Jack mount 920 may include a plate 922 with mounting holes 924 configured to align with bolt holes 131 in one of end slats (e.g., back end slat 122b). Bolts 150 may be inserted through mounting holes 924 and bolt holes 131 to secure jack mount 920 to welded base 100. Jack mount 920 may also include a supporting cylinder 926. In implementation, cylinder 926 may extend orthogonally from plate 922 and may be configured to selectively support and align a leveling jack 60 in either a vertical orientation (e.g., for utilizing leveling jack, as shown in FIGS. 1-3) or a horizontal orientation (e.g., during transport of diesel package 10). Additionally, in some implementations, another jack mount 920 may be bolted to trailer tongue 910.

[0063] Trailer light box 930 may include a structure to mount a taillight fixture onto welded base 100. In one implementation, light box 930 may be formed into multiple surfaces from a single metal sheet. Trailer light box 930 may include tabs 932 with mounting holes 934 configured to align with bolt holes 131 in one of end slats (e.g., back end slat 122b). An opening 936 may be provided in which a taillight may be secured and viewed.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 15, wheel / axle assembly 940 may be secured / bolted to an underside of welded base 100 such that wheels 942 are positioned beyond the width of welded base 100. Fenders 950 may be affixed to welded base 100 over wheels 942. Fenders 950 may include a plastic or metal structure positioned above each of wheels 942. On a forward facing end, fenders 950 may be bolted to side plate 134 using fender mounting holes 138 (FIG. 4A). On a back facing end, a fender support brace 952 installed between bottom panel 104 and top panel 108 of side rail 102 may provide an attachment surface for fender 950. Each support brace 952 may include an upper flange (not visible) and a lower flange 954 (FIG. 2), both flanges being configured with holes to receive a bolt therethrough. The upper flange may be bolted to top panel 108 by inserting bolts 150 through slots 110. Lower flange 954 may be bolted to bottom panel 104 by inserting bolts 150 through holes 139 (FIG. 4A).

[0065] FIG. 16 is a flow chart of an example process 1600 for assembling diesel package 10. Process 1600 may be performed, for example, by a supplier of diesel skid assemblies, a pump manufacturer, or some other entity associated with providing pumps and engines to work sites.

[0066] Process 1600 may include selecting a welded base sized for a pump class (block 1605) and determining if a trailer configuration is required (block 1610). For example, a small, medium, or large base 100 may be selected to accommodate an engine 20 and pump 30 based on horsepower and / or other site-related requirements. Based on customer specifications, for example, it may be determined whether a trailer configuration is required for the selected base.

[0067] If a trailer configuration is required (block 1610—Yes), process 1600 may include attaching a trailer conversion kit to the welded base (block 1615). For example, components of trailer conversion kit 900 may be bolted to welded base 100. Components of trailer conversion kit 900 may include trailer tongue 910, jack mounts 920, light boxes 930, wheel / axle assembly 940, and fenders 950, among other components.

[0068] If a trailer configuration is not required (block 1610—No) or after attaching the trailer conversion kit, process 1600 may include one or more of selecting mounting crosspieces and resting the mounting crosspieces on the base (block 1620) and selecting a pump bracket and attaching the pump bracket to a mounting crosspiece (block 1625). For example, multiple mounting crosspieces 300 may be selected from a group of differently-sized mounting crosspieces to match a size of welded base 100 and / or a footprint of a chosen engine 20 type. Mounting crosspiece 300 may be configured to match a footprint of multiple different engines 20. Similarly, a pump bracket 320 may be selected from a group of differently-sized pump brackets to match a size and flange shape for a chosen volute 34. Mounting crosspieces 300 may be placed on base 100 spanning from a right side rail 102 to a left side rail 102 so that each end of mounting crosspieces 300 sits or rests on one of horizontal top panel 108. In one implementation, vibration dampening units 330 may be installed between mounting crosspiece 300 and pump bracket 320.

[0069] Process 1600 may further include attaching a centrifugal pump to the pump bracket (block 1630) and attaching a coupling bracket to the centrifugal pump (block 1635). For example, pump bracket 320 may be attached to a suction flange of volute 34 and coupling bracket 50 may be connected to a frame of pump 30 over a pump input shaft. In one implementation, one or more mounting crosspiece 300 may be partially secured (e.g., bolted) to side rails 102.

[0070] Process 1600 may additionally include attaching the engine to the mounting crosspiece and coupling the engine to the centrifugal pump (block 1640) securing the mounting crosspiece to the base (block 1645) and connecting additional support backets for the engine (block 1650). For example, the selected engine 20 may be bolted to one or more mounting crosspieces 300. The engine 20 / crosspiece 300 combination may be positioned such that an output shaft of engine 20 may be coupled to an input shaft of pump 30, which may cause the coupling bracket 50 to align with engine 20. Coupling bracket 50 may be bolted to engine 20. Mounting crosspieces 300 may then be secured / bolted to side rails 102. For example, bolts 150 may be inserted through holes 306 of mounting crosspiece 300 into slots 110 of horizontal top panel 108 and tightened. One or more engine brackets 310 may then be mounted to engine 20 and side rails 102.

[0071] Process 1600 may also include connecting a check valve assembly to the centrifugal pump (block 1655) and attaching a check valve support between the check valve and the base (block 1660). For example, a check valve 40 may be attached at an output flange 38 of volute 34. Check valve support 600 may be secured to check valve 40 (e.g., by bolting bracket 620 to a flange 42 of check valve 40) and one of side rails 102 (e.g., by bolting ball joint 616 ends to an angle bracket 650). Adjustable arms 610 may then be extended slightly by rotating turnbuckles 614 to place arms 610 into compression for supporting check valve 40.

[0072] Process 1600 may additionally include securing the lifting bail to the base (block 1665), attaching an electrical cabinet to the lifting bail (block 1670), and attaching the electrical panel and pump accessories (block 1675). For example, a top piece 520 may be attached to two side pieces 510 to form lifting bail 500, which may then be bolted to side plates 134 using selected holes 136 and holes 512. A control panel mount 400 may be selected from one of multiple different sizes to accommodate a control panel 70 sized for the selected pump 30 / engine 20 combination on diesel package 10. The control panel mount 400 may be secured to one of side pieces 510 using mounting section 402. A control panel 70 may be secured to mounting surface 404, and other accessories (e.g., priming system, etc.) may be added to pump 30, if necessary.

[0073] As described herein, a diesel driven pump package may convert from a drag skid to a wheeled trailer. A skid assembly includes a welded base with a basin. A removeable fuel tank may fit within the basin. Multiple mounting crosspieces may extend over the fuel tank overlap side rails of the welded base and are bolted to the side rails via longitudinal slots. An engine bracket may be mounted on a first one of the multiple mounting crosspieces to support an engine. A pump bracket may be mounted on a second one of the multiple mounting crosspieces to supports a pump. A check valve support may brace a check valve extending from the pump volute. The check valve support may include an adjustable arm that extends to put the adjustable arm in compression between the check valve and the welded base. A trailer package may removably attach to the skid assembly to convert the skid assembly to a wheeled trailer.

[0074] Dual rows of slots (e.g. slots 110), running the entire length of the skid, allow for mounting of multiple engine sizes, manufactures, and pump models without requiring unique weldments. The modular skid design also allows for manipulation of the location of the center of gravity by moving the pump and engine assembly axially in the slots. Additionally, the lifting bail has three pickup points for in-the-field lateral adjustments. Additional options that may be mounted on the slots include dual direction area lighting for work / setup / maintenance in the dark.

[0075] While a series of blocks has been described with regard to the processes illustrated in FIG. 16, the order of the blocks may be modified according to other embodiments. Further, non-dependent blocks may be performed in parallel. Additionally, other processes described in this description may be modified and / or non-dependent operations may be performed in parallel.

[0076] As set forth in this description and illustrated by the drawings, reference is made to “an exemplary embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“embodiments,” etc., which may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with an embodiment(s). However, the use of the phrase or term “an embodiment,”“embodiments,” etc., in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to all embodiments described, nor does it necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments necessarily mutually exclusive of other embodiment(s). The same applies to the term “implementation,”“implementations,” etc.

[0077] The foregoing description of embodiments provides illustration, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Accordingly, modifications to the embodiments described herein may be possible. For example, various modifications and changes may be made thereto, and additional embodiments may be implemented, without departing from the broader scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The description and drawings are accordingly to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0078] The terms “a,”“an,” and “the” are intended to be interpreted to include one or more items. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to be interpreted as “based, at least in part, on,” unless explicitly stated otherwise. The term “and / or” is intended to be interpreted to include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated items. Terms describing relative position (e.g., upper / lower, above / below, vertical / horizontal, etc.) are for purposes of description and are not intended to exclude other orientations of embodiments described herein. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example.” Any embodiment or implementation described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations.

[0079] Use of ordinal terms such as “first,”“second,”“third,” etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another, the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, the temporal order in which instructions executed by a device are performed, etc., but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. Similarly, relative terms, such as right, left, front, rear, top, bottom, vertical, horizonal, etc. are used to describe relative locations and positioning of various elements described herein and do not constitute absolute or permanent directions or positions relative to an external perspective.

[0080] No element, act, or instruction used in the description of the present application should be construed as critical or essential to the invention unless explicitly described as such.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements. Also, the following detailed description does not limit the invention.

[0019]Motors and pumps of different sizes may be combined to meet customer specifications and / or field requirements. A skid assembly is generally configured to axially align an output shaft of a given driver (e.g., an internal combustion engine) with an input shaft of a given pump when the engine and pump are mounted on a frame or base. The frame is shaped to account for the dimensions of each motor-pump combination and provide the required alignment of shafts when the motor and pump are mounted on the frame.

[0020]Skid assemblies are typically moved as a unit to, from, and within a job site. In some instances, the skid assembly may be mounted on or integral with a wheeled trailer. The skid or frame must be rigid and robust to maintain alignment of...

Claims

1. A skid assembly, comprising:a welded base including:a pair of side rails including a vertical panel and a horizontal top panel, the top panel having longitudinal slots formed therein,a front end slat and a back end slat, each of the front end slat and the back end slat connected to the pair of side rails,a bottom plate, wherein the bottom plate is joined to the pair of side rails, the front end slat, and the back end slats to form a basin, anda pair of side plates, where each side plate is attached to an outer surface of each side rail and extends vertically above the top panel;a fuel tank configured to fit within the basin, such that a top surface of the fuel tank is at or below a height of the top panel when the fuel tank is installed in the basin;multiple mounting crosspieces configured to rest on the side rails and to be bolted to the side rails via the longitudinal slots, wherein the multiple mounting crosspieces extend over the fuel tank;an engine bracket, configured to be mounted on a first one of the multiple mounting crosspieces, wherein the engine bracket supports an engine;a pump bracket, configured to be mounted on a second one of the multiple mounting crosspieces, wherein the pump bracket supports a pump;a lifting bail configured to be bolted to the pair of side plates; anda check valve support configured to support a check valve extending from the pump, wherein the check valve support includes an adjustable arm.

2. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a trailer package configured to removably attach to the skid assembly and convert the skid assembly to a wheeled trailer, wherein the trailer package includes a trailer tongue having a pair of mounts configured to be connected on opposite side of the skid assembly,wherein each mount, of the pair of mounts, includes a horizonal surface and a vertical surface to receive bolted connections to the front end slat.

3. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the mounting crosspieces includes holes configured to align with some of the longitudinal slots and to receive bolts to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the mounting crosspieces relative to the welded base.

4. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the basin is a fluid-tight basin.

5. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the check valve support further includes a bracket configured to attach to a flange of the check valve and to attach to an end of the adjustable arm.

6. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the check valve support further includes angle brackets to connect the check valve support to the top panel of one of the side rails.

7. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the lifting bail includes multiple lifting holes distributed transversely on the lifting bail between the pair of side rails.

8. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the adjustable arm includes:two threaded rods in opposite orientations,a turnbuckle joining the two threaded rods, anda ball joint at an end of each of the two threaded rods.

9. The skid assembly of claim 8, wherein the check valve support includes two adjustable length arms that each extend to put the adjustable arm in compression between the check valve and the welded base.

10. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein each side rail further includes a bottom panel, and wherein the top panel, the vertical panel, and the bottom panel form a substantially C-shaped cross section.

11. The skid assembly of claim 10, wherein the back end slat extends around ends of the side rails such that end portions of the back end slat are in a parallel plane to the vertical panel.

12. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:first vibration dampening units installed between the engine bracket and a first one of the multiple mounting crosspieces, andsecond vibration dampening units installed between the pump bracket and a second one of the multiple mounting crosspieces.

13. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the pump bracket further includes a flange brace including a set of bolt holes configured to match a flange pattern at a suction flange of the pump.

14. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a coupling bracket attached to a pump bearing frame and the engine and around a coupling, wherein the coupling bracket is configured to align the pump bearing frame to the engine,wherein the engine bracket further includes a flange brace including a set of bolt holes configured to match a flange pattern at an engine end of a coupling bracket.

15. A method of forming a pump skid assembly, the method comprising:selecting, from a group of differently-sized skid bases, a welded skid base for a pump class that corresponds to a selected pump, wherein the skid base includes a pair of longitudinal side rails connected by end slats and a bottom plate;inserting a fuel tank into a basin formed by the side rails, end slats, and bottom plate, wherein a top surface of the fuel tank is at or below a height of side rail when the fuel tank is inserted into the basin;resting multiple mounting crosspieces on the side rails above the fuel tank;attaching to a first of the multiple mounting crosspieces an engine bracket;attaching to a second of the multiple mounting crosspieces a pump bracket;securing an engine to the engine bracket;securing a pump volute to the pump bracket;moving the first or the second of the multiple mounting crosspieces longitudinally to couple the engine to the pump;bolting the first and the second of the multiple mounting crosspieces to the side rails;connecting a check valve assembly to the pump volute;attaching a check valve support to the check valve and the welded base, wherein the check valve support includes at least one adjustable arm connected between the check valve assembly and the welded base; andextending the adjustable arm between the check valve assembly and the welded skid base to place the adjustable arm in a compressive state.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising:attaching a vibration dampening unit between a first of the multiple mounting crosspieces and the engine bracket, andattaching a vibration dampening unit between a second of the multiple mounting crosspieces and the pump bracket.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the side rails comprise a horizontal top panel, the top panel having longitudinal slots formed therein, and wherein bolting the first and the second of the multiple mounting crosspieces to the side rails includes:bolting the first and the second of the multiple mounting crosspieces to the side rails via the slots.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein attaching the check valve support to the welded base includes:bolting the check valve support to the side rails via the slots.

19. The method of claim 15, further comprising:attaching, to the welded base, a trailer package that includes a trailer tongue having a pair of mounts configured to be connected on opposite side of the pump skid assembly, wherein the attaching includes:bolting each mount, of the pair of mounts, to a horizonal surface and a vertical surface of one of the end slats.

20. A check valve support for a skid assembly, the check valve support comprising:an adjustable arm configured to connect between a check valve for a pump volute and a base of the skid assembly, wherein the adjustable arm includes:two threaded rods configured in opposite orientations,a turnbuckle joining the two rods, anda ball joint at an end of each of the two rods; anda bracket configured to attach to a flange of the check valve and to attach to an end of the adjustable arm,wherein the adjustable arm is configured to extend to put the adjustable arm in compression between the check valve and the base.

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