Modular skid with check valve support for pumps with electric motors

Abstract

A modular skid assembly is provided for a pump driven by an electric motor. The skid assembly has a base including slats. A motor support to position the motor is configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A frame support to position a pump bearing frame is configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A volute support to support a pump volute is configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A lifting bail is configured to be bolted to the slats in one of multiple longitudinal positions along the base. A check valve support is configured to brace a check valve extending from the pump volute. The check valve support includes an adjustable arm that extends to put the adjustable arm in compression between the check valve and the base.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 715,800, filed on Nov. 4, 2024 and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 678,585, filed on Aug. 2, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Portable pump systems typically include a pump coupled to a motor 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 an electric motor or 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 rear end perspective and front end perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation described herein;

[0004] FIG. 3 is a right side perspective view of the electric skid assembly of FIGS. 1 and 2;

[0005] FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of a welded base for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0006] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a motor support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0007] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a frame support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0008] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a volute support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0009] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of an electrical cabinet for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0010] FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of a side piece and top piece, respectively, of a lifting bail for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0011] FIG. 10 is perspective view of a check valve support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0012] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a motor bracket for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0013] FIG. 12 is an assembly view of an exemplary embodiment of an electric skid assembly;

[0014] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the electric skid assembly according to another implementation; and

[0015] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of an exemplary process for assembling an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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 motor with an input shaft of a given pump when the motor 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. As part of a 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.

[0018] Skid assemblies are typically moved as a unit to, from, and within a job site. The skid or frame must be rigid and robust to maintain alignment of the pump, motor, and other components as the skid is dragged or lifted. Skids for pumps driven by electric motors (referred to herein as electric skids) typically take the form of fully-welded single body units. The fully-welded units require each skid to be unique for the pump that is mounted on the skid. Furthermore, the skid design 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.

[0019] Pump manufacturers and / or skid assemblers can benefit from a modular skid frame that meets requirements for structural rigidity yet can be configured for a variety of different pump / motor combinations and orientations. Implementations described herein provide a welded body (or base) electric skid with bolt-on supports for the motor, pump frame, suction cover (also referred to as a volute), and control / electrical cabinet. The position of the bolt-on supports may be adjusted on the welded base to allow for different sizes and spacing of the mounted components. Differently sized supports may be used to mount and axially align different sizes of pumps and motors. According to one implementation, as described further herein, each of the supports may be configured to rest on top of, and be supported by, the welded base and be bolted to the base from the top. Thus, the supports may be load-bearing (e.g., during assembly) to allow for positioning and alignment prior to insertion and / or tightening of the bolts.

[0020] According to another implementation, an adjustable check valve support is provided for the skid assembly. The check valve support may be connected directly or indirectly to the skid base. The check valve support may also be connected to the check valve at a mid- or distal point from the cantilevered attachment. One or more adjustable arms of the check valve support may be extended to put the arms in compression between the check valve and support brackets, thus supporting the check valve against the welded skid base.

[0021] According to another implementation, the location of a lifting bale, the supports, and / or an electrical cabinet may be longitudinally adjustable relative to the welded skid base. Positions of any of these components (e.g., lifting bale, supports, or electrical cabinet) may be adjusted to facilitate easy assembly / alignment and create a center of gravity that generally corresponds to the location of the lifting bail.

[0022] FIGS. 1 and 2 are right side perspective and left side perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of an electric skid assembly 10. FIG. 3 is a right side view of electric skid assembly 10, and FIG. 12 is an assembly view of electric skid assembly 10. Electric skid assembly 10 may include a welded skid base 100, a motor support 200, a frame support 300, a volute support 400, an electrical cabinet 500, a lifting bail 600, a check valve support 700, and a motor bracket 800. Each of motor support 200, frame support 300, volute support 400, electrical cabinet 500, and lifting bail 600 may be bolted or otherwise removably attached to welded skid base 100 to form electric skid assembly 10.

[0023] A motor 20 may be mounted on motor support 200 selected to position motor 20 in alignment with a corresponding pump 30. Motor 20 may include, for example, an electric motor that drives pump 30. As best shown in FIG. 3, 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 frame support 300 and volute support 400 to position pump 30 in alignment with motor 20. More particularly, motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may be sized to align an output shaft of a motor 20 with an input shaft of pump 30 when motor 20 and pump 30 are mounted on the electric skid assembly 10. As shown in FIG. 3, motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may determine the height of motor 20 and pump 30 above base 100 such that the output shaft of a motor 20 and the input shaft of pump 30 can be aligned on a common axis 12 (FIG. 3). Check valve support 700 may be secured to portions of frame support 300 and volute support 400 to support a check valve 40. Motor bracket 800 may be connected to the mounted motor 20 and pump 30 around the coupling of the motor output shaft and the pump input shaft.

[0024] In one implementation, a single base 100 size can be used for a range of multiple motor 20 and pump 30 sizes. For example, a small, medium, and large size base 100 may be used to support multiple motor horsepower (HP) ratings in a supplier's product line (e.g., from 10 HP to 350 HP) 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, motor, controller, etc.). Different sizes of motor supports 200, frame supports 300, volute supports 400, and electrical cabinets 500 may be selected and attached to one of the skid bases 100 to accommodate different motor / pump combinations. FIGS. 1-3 and 12 illustrate an example of a skid assembly 10 using a large base 100 size, while FIG. 13 (described below) illustrates an example, of a skid assembly 10 using a small base 100 size.

[0025] As described further herein, each of the bolt-on supports (e.g., motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400) may include slots to allow for adjustment of the center of gravity or general alignment. In particular, the slots in each support allow the supports to be moved forward or backward relative to base 100. This adjustment allows skid 10 to be assembled and customized so it can be picked up while level. 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, or bolt / washer / nut combinations 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 that can secure components of skid assembly 10. In some implementations, bolts 150 may be provided in different sizes for different applications on skid assembly 10.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of base 100. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-4, welded base 100 may include longitudinal slats 102 connected by cross beams 120. Slats 102 and cross beams 120 may have welded or other permanent or semi-permanent connections. In one implementation, each of longitudinal slats 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. Bolt holes 110 and / or slots 112 may be included on to panels 108 throughout the length of slats 102 for placement of the different bolt-on supports (e.g., motor support 200, frame support 300, volute support 400, and electrical cabinet 500). Additional holes 114 may be included on vertical panel 106 for placement other components (e.g. lifting bail 600). Multiple configurations and combinations of the bolt-on supports allow for different pump and motor combinations to be mounted on identical skid bases 100.

[0027] Cross beams 120 may be welded, for example, to each longitudinal slat 102, providing a fixed width for skid base 100 (e.g., along an X-axis of FIG. 4). Cross beams 120 may be affixed, for example, at the front and back (e.g., along a Y-axis of FIG. 4) of the longitudinal slats 102. Each vertical panel 106 may also include openings 116 into which a fork pocket 118 may be mounted, with each fork pocket 118 spanning the width of welded base 100. Fork pockets 118 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 118 may be welded to into openings 116 to provide additional structural rigidity for welded base 100.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of motor support 200. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 5, and 12, motor support 200 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while supporting motor 20. Motor support 200 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized motors 20, while the width of motor support 200 may remain the same. Each motor support 200 may include two side mounting brackets 202 (e.g., a right side and a left side) with a mounting surface 204 therebetween. Mounting surface 204 may include a set of bolt holes 206 configured to match a motor footprint of one or more types of motors 20. For example, some of bolt holes 206 may be used to mount a 15 horsepower (HP) motor, while other of bolt holes 206 may be used to mount a 25 HP or larger motor. Only some of bolt holes 206 are labeled to simplify the drawings.

[0029] Mounting surface 204 may be in a different plane (e.g., orthogonal to the Z-axis) than the plane of mounting brackets 202. That is, mounting surface 204 may be higher (or lower) than mounting brackets 202. The height of mounting surface 204 may vary for different motor supports 200 and corresponding motor 20 sizes. For example, with respect to FIG. 13, mounting surface 204 is configured to be nearly level with horizontal panel 108 of longitudinal slat 102. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 3, mounting surface 204 may be configured to be higher than horizontal panel 108 for other applications. Vertical panels 208 on motor support 200 may provide structural support for mounting brackets 202 and mounting surface 204. The size of vertical panels 208 may vary with the height differences provided for each mounting support 200.

[0030] Motor support 200 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 of base 100 and position motor 20 relative to pump 30 and other components. Motor support 200 may include slots 210 in mounting brackets 202. Slots 210 may be configured to align with some of the bolt holes 110 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 so as to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the motor support 200 relative to the welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting brackets 202 are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10. More particularly, mounting brackets 202 are configured to be load-bearing when installed over slats 102 without use of bolts 150. Each mounting bracket 202 may be reinforced with flanges 212 that include notches 214 below the mounting brackets 202. The arrangement of notches 214 under mounting brackets 202 may allow motor support 200 to sit on top of slats 102 and permit longitudinal adjustment (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) of motor support 200 while restricting transverse movement (e.g., in the X-axis direction) or rotation. Thus, motor support 200 (and a supported motor 20) can be fully supported on slats 102 while motor support 200 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through slots 210 and holes 110.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of frame support 300. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 6, and 12, frame support 300 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while supporting bearing frame 32 of pump 30. Frame support 300 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized pumps 30, while the width of frame support 300 may generally remain the same. Each frame support 300 may include two side mounting brackets 302 (e.g., a right side and a left side) with a mounting surface 304 therebetween. Mounting surface 304 may include a set of bolt holes 306 configured to match a pump footprint of one or more types of pumps 30. In one implementation, each frame support 300 may be configured for a single type of pump 30. In other implementations, a frame support 300 may be used with different types of pumps 30. For example, bolt holes 306 may be used to mount a 15-inch diameter bearing frame 32 or an 18-inch diameter (or other size) bearing frame 32 with a similar footprint. To simplify the drawings, not all of bolt holes 306 are labeled.

[0032] Mounting surface 304 may be in a different plane (e.g., orthogonal to the Z-axis) than the plane of mounting brackets 302. That is, mounting surface 304 may be higher (or lower) than mounting brackets 302. The height of mounting surface 304 may vary for different frame supports 300 and corresponding pump 30 sizes. For example, with respect to FIG. 13, in one implementation, mounting surface 304 is configured to be at a height of 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 of longitudinal slat 102. In contrast, with respect to FIG. 3, in another implementation, mounting surface 304 may be configured to be at a height of 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 for other applications. Vertical panels 308 on frame support 300 may provide structural support for mounting brackets 302 and mounting surface 304. The size of vertical panels 308 may vary with the height differences provided for each frame support 300.

[0033] Frame support 300 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 of base 100 and position a bearing frame 32 of pump 30 relative to motor 20 and other components. Frame support 300 may include slots 310 in mounting brackets 302. Slots 310 may be configured to align with some of the bolt holes 110 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the frame support 300 relative to welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting brackets 302 are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10. More particularly, mounting brackets 302 are configured to be load-bearing when installed over slats 102 without the use of bolts 150. Each mounting bracket 302 may be reinforced with flanges 312 that include notches 314 below the mounting brackets 302. The arrangement of notches 314 under mounting brackets 302 may allow frame support 300 to sit on top of slats 102 and permit longitudinal adjustment (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) of frame support 300 while restricting transverse movement (e.g., in the X-axis direction) or rotation. Thus, frame support 300 (and a supported bearing frame 32) can be fully supported by slats 102 while frame support 300 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through slots 310 and holes 110.

[0034] Frame support 300 may also include mounting tabs 322. In one implementation, mounting tabs 322 may include a hole 324 to receive a bolted connection. Mounting tabs 322 may project, for example, from vertical surface 308 and / or flange 312. In one implementation, mounting tabs 322 may be slightly angled from vertical (e.g., between 5 and 30 degrees from the plane of vertical surface 308). As described further herein, mounting tabs 322 may provide an attachment point for check valve support 700. Mounting tabs 322 may be included, for example, on one or both sides of frame support 300 to accommodate different orientations of volute 34.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of volute support 400. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 7, and 12, volute support 400 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while supporting volute 34 of pump 30. Volute support 400 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized pumps 30, while the width of volute support 400 may remain the same. Each volute support 400 may include a mounting surface 402 with a flange brace 404 supported by a vertical surface 408 therebetween. Flange brace 404 may include a set of bolt holes 406 configured to match a flange pattern (e.g., an SAE standard pattern) at a suction flange of volute 34. For example, in one implementation, flange brace 404 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt hole pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with a 12-inch suction flange, such that two or more of bolt holes 406 align with the bolt pattern at the suction flange. In another implementation, flange brace 404 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt hole pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with an 8-inch suction flange.

[0036] The height of flange brace 404 (e.g., in the Z-axis) may vary for different volute supports 400 and corresponding pump 30 sizes. Vertical surface 408 on volute support 400 may provide structural support for flange brace 404. For example, with respect to FIG. 13, in one implementation, the lowest point of curved flange brace 404 is configured to be at a height of 4 inches (10.16 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 of longitudinal slat 102. In contrast, with respect to FIG. 3, in another implementation, the lowest point of curved flange brace 404 may be configured to be at a height of 8 inches (20.32 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 for other applications. The size of vertical surface 408 may vary with the height differences provided for each volute support 400.

[0037] Volute support 400 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 and position volute 34. Volute support 400 includes holes 410 in mounting surface 402 configured to align with some of the slots 112 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the volute support 400 relative to welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting surface 402 is configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10, since frame support 300 can be fully supported by slats 102 while frame support 300 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through holes 410 and slots 112.

[0038] Volute support 400 may also include mounting tabs 412. In one implementation, mounting tabs 412 may each include a hole 414 to receive a bolted connection. Mounting tabs 412 may project, for example, from vertical surface 408. In one implementation, mounting tabs 412 may be slightly angled from vertical (e.g., between 5 and 30 degrees from the plane of vertical surface 408). As described further herein, mounting tabs 412 may provide an attachment point for check valve support 700. Mounting tabs 412 may be included, for example, on one or both sides of volute support 400 to accommodate different orientations of volute 34.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of electrical cabinet 500 for electric skid assembly 10. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 8, and 12, electrical cabinet 500 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while providing a vertical surface for mounting a control panel 50. Electrical cabinet 500 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized control panels 50. Control panel 50 may include, for example, quick-connect leads 52 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 13) to allow for safer installation on site. Each electrical cabinet 500 may include two side mounting brackets 502 (e.g., a right side and a left side) with a vertical mounting surface 504 therebetween. Mounting surface 504 may include a set of bolt holes 506 configured to match a mounting footprint of one or more types of control panels 50.

[0040] Electrical cabinet 500 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 of base 100 and position a control panel 50 relative to motor 20 and other components. Electrical cabinet 500 may include slots 510 in mounting brackets 502. Slots 510 may be configured to align with some of the bolt holes 110 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 so as to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of electrical cabinet 500 relative to welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting brackets 502 are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10, since electrical cabinet 500 can be fully supported by slats 102 while electrical cabinet 500 is being longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are being installed through slots 510 and holes 110.

[0041] FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of a side piece 610 and a top piece 620, respectively, of lifting bail 600 for electric skid assembly 10. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 9A, 9B, and 12 lifting bail 600 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while providing an accessible lifting point for skid assembly 10. Lifting bail 600 may comprise two identical side pieces 610 and a single top piece 620. In one implementation, side pieces 610 and top piece 620 of lifting bail 600 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized skid assemblies 10. For example, small or large sized side pieces 610 may be used with top piece 620 to ensure that lifting bail 600 is accessible over mounted equipment on skid assembly 10.

[0042] Each side piece 610 may include a beam 611 with a substantially C-shaped cross section. Side piece 610 may include a set of mounting holes 612 near one end of beam 611 (e.g., a bottom end) and a cross-piece flange 614 near an opposite end of beam 611. Cross-piece flange 614 may be welded and / or keyed to beam 611. Cross-piece flange 614 may include a set of holes 616. Mounting holes 612 may be configured to align with holes 114 in vertical panel 106 of longitudinal slat 102.

[0043] Top piece 620 may include a vertical panel 622 with a set of holes 626 on opposite ends (e.g., a left end and a right end) and a set of lifting holes 624 substantially in the middle of panel 622. Holes 626 may be configured to align with at least some of holes 616 in each side piece 620. As shown, for example, in FIG. 1, holes 616 of side pieces 610 and holes 626 of top piece 620 may be aligned and bolts 150 inserted therethrough to form lifting bail 600.

[0044] Lifting bail 600 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 in one of multiple alignments along vertical panel 106. For example, vertical panel 106 may include multiple holes 114 in a pattern along a central portion of slat 102 that allows for forward / backward adjustment along the skid base 100 center. Using holes 114 and holes 612, beams 611 may be attached to slats 102 via bolts 150. In one implementation, lifting bail 600 can be moved forward or backward along holes 114 should there be interference with the other supports or the center of gravity needs adjustment, without moving any of the other components mounted on skid assembly 10.

[0045] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of check valve support 700. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 10, and 12, check valve support 700 may generally be configured to adjustably support (or brace) a check valve 40 that is attached to an exit port of volute 34. 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. 2) when attached to the exit port of volute 34.

[0046] In one implementation, check valve support 700 may include a set of arms 710 connected to a bracket 720. Each arm 710 may include two threaded rods 712 with opposite thread orientations and a turnbuckle 714 therebetween. Each arm 710 may include a ball joint 716 at opposite ends. As shown in FIG. 10, each of arm 710 may connect at one end to bracket 720 via one of ball joints 716. Bracket 720 may include a set of holes 722 (e.g., at opposite ends of bracket 720) for bolted attachment to ball joints 716.

[0047] Bracket 720 may also include as set of holes 724 for bolted attachment to check valve 40. For example, bracket 720 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 720 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.

[0048] Bracket 720 may be attached to check valve 40 such that arms 710 are positioned on each side (e.g., forward and aft along the Y-axis) of valve 40 body. As shown in FIG. 3, for example, ball joints 716 of arms 710 may attach to projections provided on the volute support 400 (e.g., mounting tabs 412) and the frame support 300 (e.g., mounting tabs 322) via bolted connections (e.g., bolts 150).

[0049] When check valve support 700 is connected to the volute support 400 (e.g., mounting tab 412), the frame support 300 (e.g., mounting tab 322), and the check valve 40 (e.g., flange 42), turnbuckles 714 may be threaded to extend threaded rods 712 and put arms 710 into compression. When in compression, arms 710 allow transfer of the check valve and associated piping loads into the welded base 100 and supports (e.g., frame support 300 and volute support 400), rather than relying on the moment loading of output flange 38. Check valve support 700 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.

[0050] While shown with a two-arm configuration in FIG. 10, in other implementations, check valve support 700 may use a single arm 710. For example, a single arm 710 may be attached between bracket 720 and either of frame support 300 (e.g., mounting tab 322) or volute support 400 (e.g., mounting tab 412). In still another implementation, one or more arms 710 may be bolted directly to frame 110. For example, instead of using mounting tabs 322 / 412, one or more projections may be welded or bolted to slat 102 to receive a ball joint of arm 710.

[0051] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of motor bracket 800. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 11, and 12, motor bracket 800 may provide a rigid, substantially-cylindrical housing that goes over the coupling of the motor 20 shaft and the pump 30 shaft. In one implementation, motor bracket 800 may include a cast cylinder 802 with a pump-facing flange 810 at one end and a motor-facing flange 820 at the other end. One or more access windows 804 may be formed in cylinder 802.

[0052] Pump-facing flange 810 may include a set of holes 812 to facilitate bolted attachment to pump 30. Pump-facing flange 810 may be sized to match a size and hole pattern of, for example, a flanged bracket that surrounds an input shaft on pump 30. In one implementation, flange 810 and holes 812 may be sized and oriented, for example, to meet one or more standardized interface requirements, such as a Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standard.

[0053] Motor-facing flange 820 may include a set of holes 822 to facilitate bolted attachment to motor 20. Motor-facing flange 820 may be sized to match a size and hole pattern on, for example, a face of motor 20 that surrounds an output (or drive) shaft. In one implementation, flange 820 and holes 822 may be sized and oriented, for example, to meet one or more standardized interface requirements.

[0054] In one implementation, motor bracket 800 (e.g., motor-facing flange 820) may be attached to motor 20, which is attached to motor support 200 during assembly of skid 10. Motor 20 and motor support 200 may be slid along longitudinal slats 102 to position pump-facing flange 810 against pump 30, which is attached to frame support 300. A technician may access the motor output shaft and the pump input shaft through windows 804 to complete the coupling. Motor bracket 800 (e.g., pump-facing flange 810) may then be attached to pump 30. Screw holes 806 may be provided around window 804 to attach a cover over windows 804 after the coupling is completed. Attachment of motor bracket 800 during skid 10 assembly may eliminate the need for initial alignment of the coupling by customers and may maintain alignment during transportation and setup at temporary use sites.

[0055] FIG. 14 is a flow chart of an example process 1400 for assembling electric skid assembly 10. Process 1400 may be performed, for example, by a supplier of electric skid assemblies, a pump and / or motor manufacturer, or some other entity associated with providing pumps and motors to work sites.

[0056] Process 1400 may include selecting an electric skid base sized for a pump class (block 1405). For example, a small, medium, or large base 100 may be selected to accommodate a motor 20 and pump 30 based on horsepower and / or other site-related requirements,

[0057] Process 1400 may also include selecting a motor support and resting the motor support on the base (block 1410), selecting a bearing frame support and resting the bearing frame support on the base (1415), and selecting a volute support and resting the volute support on the base (1420). For example, a motor support 200 may be selected from a group of differently-sized motor supports to match a footprint of a chosen motor 20 type. Motor support 200 may be configured to match a footprint of multiple different motors. Similarly, a frame support 300 may be selected from a group of differently-sized frame supports to match a footprint of a chosen bearing frame 32. Also, a volute support 400 may be selected to match a size and flange shape for a chosen volute 34. Each of motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may be placed on base 100 spanning from a right side slat 102 to a left side slat 102 so that each respective mounting bracket (e.g., mounting brackets 202, mounting brackets 302, and mounting surface 402) sits on horizontal top panel 108. In one implementation, one or more of motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may be partially secured (e.g., bolted) to slats 102.

[0058] Process 1400 may further include attaching a centrifugal pump to the bearing frame support and the volute support (block 1425) and attaching a motor bracket to the centrifugal pump (block 1430). For example, the bearing frame 32 of the selected pump 30 may be bolted to mounting surface 304, and the flange brace 404 of volute support 400 may be bolted to volute 34 of the selected pump 30. A motor bracket 800 of the appropriate size for the pump-motor combination may be attached (e.g., at pump-facing flange 810) to pump 30.

[0059] Process 1400 may additionally include attaching the motor to the motor support and coupling the motor to the centrifugal pump (block 1435) and securing the motor support, the volute support, and the frame support to the base (block 1440). For example, the selected motor 20 may be bolted to mounting surface 204 of motor support 200. The motor 20 / support 200 combination may be positioned such that an output shaft of motor 20 may be coupled to an input shaft of pump 30, which may cause the motor-facing flange 820 of motor bracket 800 to align with motor 20. Using access windows 804 the coupling may be secured / confirmed, and motor-facing flange 820 may be bolted to motor 20. Motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may then be secured / bolted to slats 102. For example, bolts 150 may be inserted through slots 210 of motor support into bolt holes 110 of horizontal top panel 108 and tightened. Frame support 300 and volute support 400 may similarly secured.

[0060] Process 1400 may also include connecting a check valve to the centrifugal pump (block 1445) and attaching a check valve support between the check valve and the base (block 1450). For example, a check valve 40 may be attached at an output flange 38 of volute 34. Check valve support 700 may be secured to check valve 40 (e.g., by bolting bracket 720 to a flange 42 of check valve 40), frame support 300 (e.g., by bolting a ball joint 716 end to a mounting tab 322), and volute support 400 (e.g., by bolting a ball joint 716 end to a mounting tab 412). Adjustable arms 710 may then be extended slightly by rotating turnbuckles 714 to place arms 710 into compression for supporting check valve 40. Note that check valve 40 in the instant description also refers to a check valve assembly that includes the check valve 40 and one or more other corresponding components, e.g., bolts, fasteners, or other types of components suitable to be coupled with check valve 40.

[0061] Process 1400 may additionally include selecting an electrical cabinet and securing the cabinet to the base (block 1455), selecting mounting holes for positioning the lifting bail and bolting the lifting bail to the base (block 1460), and attaching an electrical panel and pump accessories (block 1465). For example, an electrical cabinet 500 may be selected from one of multiple different sizes to accommodate a control panel 50 sized for the selected pump 30 / motor 20 combination on skid assembly 10. The selected electrical cabinet 500 may be secured to slats 102 using mounting brackets 502. A top piece 620 may be attached to two side pieces 610 to form lifting bail 600, which may then be bolted to base 100 using selected holes 114 and holes 612. An electrical panel 50 may be secured to mounting surface 504, and other accessories (e.g., priming system, etc.) may be added to pump 30, if necessary.

[0062] As described herein, a modular skid assembly is provided for a pump driven by an electric motor. The skid assembly may include a base including slats, with first bolt holes and first longitudinal slots formed therein, and a cross beam connected to the slats. A motor support to position the motor may be configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A frame support to position a pump bearing frame may be configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A volute support to support a pump volute may be configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A lifting bail may be configured to be bolted to the slats in one of multiple longitudinal positions along the base. A check valve support may be configured to 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 base.

[0063] While a series of blocks has been described with regard to the processes illustrated in FIG. 14, 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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, 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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

[0016]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.

[0017]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 motor with an input shaft of a given pump when the motor 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. As part of a 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 connec...

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 715,800, filed on Nov. 4, 2024 and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 678,585, filed on Aug. 2, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Portable pump systems typically include a pump coupled to a motor 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 an electric motor or 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 rear end perspective and front end perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation described herein;

[0004] FIG. 3 is a right side perspective view of the electric skid assembly of FIGS. 1 and 2;

[0005] FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of a welded base for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0006] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a motor support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0007] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a frame support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0008] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a volute support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0009] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of an electrical cabinet for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0010] FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of a side piece and top piece, respectively, of a lifting bail for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0011] FIG. 10 is perspective view of a check valve support for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0012] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a motor bracket for an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation;

[0013] FIG. 12 is an assembly view of an exemplary embodiment of an electric skid assembly;

[0014] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the electric skid assembly according to another implementation; and

[0015] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of an exemplary process for assembling an electric skid assembly, according to an implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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 motor with an input shaft of a given pump when the motor 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. As part of a 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.

[0018] Skid assemblies are typically moved as a unit to, from, and within a job site. The skid or frame must be rigid and robust to maintain alignment of the pump, motor, and other components as the skid is dragged or lifted. Skids for pumps driven by electric motors (referred to herein as electric skids) typically take the form of fully-welded single body units. The fully-welded units require each skid to be unique for the pump that is mounted on the skid. Furthermore, the skid design 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.

[0019] Pump manufacturers and / or skid assemblers can benefit from a modular skid frame that meets requirements for structural rigidity yet can be configured for a variety of different pump / motor combinations and orientations. Implementations described herein provide a welded body (or base) electric skid with bolt-on supports for the motor, pump frame, suction cover (also referred to as a volute), and control / electrical cabinet. The position of the bolt-on supports may be adjusted on the welded base to allow for different sizes and spacing of the mounted components. Differently sized supports may be used to mount and axially align different sizes of pumps and motors. According to one implementation, as described further herein, each of the supports may be configured to rest on top of, and be supported by, the welded base and be bolted to the base from the top. Thus, the supports may be load-bearing (e.g., during assembly) to allow for positioning and alignment prior to insertion and / or tightening of the bolts.

[0020] According to another implementation, an adjustable check valve support is provided for the skid assembly. The check valve support may be connected directly or indirectly to the skid base. The check valve support may also be connected to the check valve at a mid- or distal point from the cantilevered attachment. One or more adjustable arms of the check valve support may be extended to put the arms in compression between the check valve and support brackets, thus supporting the check valve against the welded skid base.

[0021] According to another implementation, the location of a lifting bale, the supports, and / or an electrical cabinet may be longitudinally adjustable relative to the welded skid base. Positions of any of these components (e.g., lifting bale, supports, or electrical cabinet) may be adjusted to facilitate easy assembly / alignment and create a center of gravity that generally corresponds to the location of the lifting bail.

[0022] FIGS. 1 and 2 are right side perspective and left side perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of an electric skid assembly 10. FIG. 3 is a right side view of electric skid assembly 10, and FIG. 12 is an assembly view of electric skid assembly 10. Electric skid assembly 10 may include a welded skid base 100, a motor support 200, a frame support 300, a volute support 400, an electrical cabinet 500, a lifting bail 600, a check valve support 700, and a motor bracket 800. Each of motor support 200, frame support 300, volute support 400, electrical cabinet 500, and lifting bail 600 may be bolted or otherwise removably attached to welded skid base 100 to form electric skid assembly 10.

[0023] A motor 20 may be mounted on motor support 200 selected to position motor 20 in alignment with a corresponding pump 30. Motor 20 may include, for example, an electric motor that drives pump 30. As best shown in FIG. 3, 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 frame support 300 and volute support 400 to position pump 30 in alignment with motor 20. More particularly, motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may be sized to align an output shaft of a motor 20 with an input shaft of pump 30 when motor 20 and pump 30 are mounted on the electric skid assembly 10. As shown in FIG. 3, motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may determine the height of motor 20 and pump 30 above base 100 such that the output shaft of a motor 20 and the input shaft of pump 30 can be aligned on a common axis 12 (FIG. 3). Check valve support 700 may be secured to portions of frame support 300 and volute support 400 to support a check valve 40. Motor bracket 800 may be connected to the mounted motor 20 and pump 30 around the coupling of the motor output shaft and the pump input shaft.

[0024] In one implementation, a single base 100 size can be used for a range of multiple motor 20 and pump 30 sizes. For example, a small, medium, and large size base 100 may be used to support multiple motor horsepower (HP) ratings in a supplier's product line (e.g., from 10 HP to 350 HP) 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, motor, controller, etc.). Different sizes of motor supports 200, frame supports 300, volute supports 400, and electrical cabinets 500 may be selected and attached to one of the skid bases 100 to accommodate different motor / pump combinations. FIGS. 1-3 and 12 illustrate an example of a skid assembly 10 using a large base 100 size, while FIG. 13 (described below) illustrates an example, of a skid assembly 10 using a small base 100 size.

[0025] As described further herein, each of the bolt-on supports (e.g., motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400) may include slots to allow for adjustment of the center of gravity or general alignment. In particular, the slots in each support allow the supports to be moved forward or backward relative to base 100. This adjustment allows skid 10 to be assembled and customized so it can be picked up while level. 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, or bolt / washer / nut combinations 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 that can secure components of skid assembly 10. In some implementations, bolts 150 may be provided in different sizes for different applications on skid assembly 10.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of base 100. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-4, welded base 100 may include longitudinal slats 102 connected by cross beams 120. Slats 102 and cross beams 120 may have welded or other permanent or semi-permanent connections. In one implementation, each of longitudinal slats 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. Bolt holes 110 and / or slots 112 may be included on to panels 108 throughout the length of slats 102 for placement of the different bolt-on supports (e.g., motor support 200, frame support 300, volute support 400, and electrical cabinet 500). Additional holes 114 may be included on vertical panel 106 for placement other components (e.g. lifting bail 600). Multiple configurations and combinations of the bolt-on supports allow for different pump and motor combinations to be mounted on identical skid bases 100.

[0027] Cross beams 120 may be welded, for example, to each longitudinal slat 102, providing a fixed width for skid base 100 (e.g., along an X-axis of FIG. 4). Cross beams 120 may be affixed, for example, at the front and back (e.g., along a Y-axis of FIG. 4) of the longitudinal slats 102. Each vertical panel 106 may also include openings 116 into which a fork pocket 118 may be mounted, with each fork pocket 118 spanning the width of welded base 100. Fork pockets 118 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 118 may be welded to into openings 116 to provide additional structural rigidity for welded base 100.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of motor support 200. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 5, and 12, motor support 200 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while supporting motor 20. Motor support 200 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized motors 20, while the width of motor support 200 may remain the same. Each motor support 200 may include two side mounting brackets 202 (e.g., a right side and a left side) with a mounting surface 204 therebetween. Mounting surface 204 may include a set of bolt holes 206 configured to match a motor footprint of one or more types of motors 20. For example, some of bolt holes 206 may be used to mount a 15 horsepower (HP) motor, while other of bolt holes 206 may be used to mount a 25 HP or larger motor. Only some of bolt holes 206 are labeled to simplify the drawings.

[0029] Mounting surface 204 may be in a different plane (e.g., orthogonal to the Z-axis) than the plane of mounting brackets 202. That is, mounting surface 204 may be higher (or lower) than mounting brackets 202. The height of mounting surface 204 may vary for different motor supports 200 and corresponding motor 20 sizes. For example, with respect to FIG. 13, mounting surface 204 is configured to be nearly level with horizontal panel 108 of longitudinal slat 102. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 3, mounting surface 204 may be configured to be higher than horizontal panel 108 for other applications. Vertical panels 208 on motor support 200 may provide structural support for mounting brackets 202 and mounting surface 204. The size of vertical panels 208 may vary with the height differences provided for each mounting support 200.

[0030] Motor support 200 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 of base 100 and position motor 20 relative to pump 30 and other components. Motor support 200 may include slots 210 in mounting brackets 202. Slots 210 may be configured to align with some of the bolt holes 110 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 so as to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the motor support 200 relative to the welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting brackets 202 are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10. More particularly, mounting brackets 202 are configured to be load-bearing when installed over slats 102 without use of bolts 150. Each mounting bracket 202 may be reinforced with flanges 212 that include notches 214 below the mounting brackets 202. The arrangement of notches 214 under mounting brackets 202 may allow motor support 200 to sit on top of slats 102 and permit longitudinal adjustment (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) of motor support 200 while restricting transverse movement (e.g., in the X-axis direction) or rotation. Thus, motor support 200 (and a supported motor 20) can be fully supported on slats 102 while motor support 200 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through slots 210 and holes 110.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of frame support 300. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 6, and 12, frame support 300 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while supporting bearing frame 32 of pump 30. Frame support 300 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized pumps 30, while the width of frame support 300 may generally remain the same. Each frame support 300 may include two side mounting brackets 302 (e.g., a right side and a left side) with a mounting surface 304 therebetween. Mounting surface 304 may include a set of bolt holes 306 configured to match a pump footprint of one or more types of pumps 30. In one implementation, each frame support 300 may be configured for a single type of pump 30. In other implementations, a frame support 300 may be used with different types of pumps 30. For example, bolt holes 306 may be used to mount a 15-inch diameter bearing frame 32 or an 18-inch diameter (or other size) bearing frame 32 with a similar footprint. To simplify the drawings, not all of bolt holes 306 are labeled.

[0032] Mounting surface 304 may be in a different plane (e.g., orthogonal to the Z-axis) than the plane of mounting brackets 302. That is, mounting surface 304 may be higher (or lower) than mounting brackets 302. The height of mounting surface 304 may vary for different frame supports 300 and corresponding pump 30 sizes. For example, with respect to FIG. 13, in one implementation, mounting surface 304 is configured to be at a height of 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 of longitudinal slat 102. In contrast, with respect to FIG. 3, in another implementation, mounting surface 304 may be configured to be at a height of 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 for other applications. Vertical panels 308 on frame support 300 may provide structural support for mounting brackets 302 and mounting surface 304. The size of vertical panels 308 may vary with the height differences provided for each frame support 300.

[0033] Frame support 300 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 of base 100 and position a bearing frame 32 of pump 30 relative to motor 20 and other components. Frame support 300 may include slots 310 in mounting brackets 302. Slots 310 may be configured to align with some of the bolt holes 110 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the frame support 300 relative to welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting brackets 302 are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10. More particularly, mounting brackets 302 are configured to be load-bearing when installed over slats 102 without the use of bolts 150. Each mounting bracket 302 may be reinforced with flanges 312 that include notches 314 below the mounting brackets 302. The arrangement of notches 314 under mounting brackets 302 may allow frame support 300 to sit on top of slats 102 and permit longitudinal adjustment (e.g., in the Y-axis direction) of frame support 300 while restricting transverse movement (e.g., in the X-axis direction) or rotation. Thus, frame support 300 (and a supported bearing frame 32) can be fully supported by slats 102 while frame support 300 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through slots 310 and holes 110.

[0034] Frame support 300 may also include mounting tabs 322. In one implementation, mounting tabs 322 may include a hole 324 to receive a bolted connection. Mounting tabs 322 may project, for example, from vertical surface 308 and / or flange 312. In one implementation, mounting tabs 322 may be slightly angled from vertical (e.g., between 5 and 30 degrees from the plane of vertical surface 308). As described further herein, mounting tabs 322 may provide an attachment point for check valve support 700. Mounting tabs 322 may be included, for example, on one or both sides of frame support 300 to accommodate different orientations of volute 34.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of volute support 400. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 7, and 12, volute support 400 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while supporting volute 34 of pump 30. Volute support 400 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized pumps 30, while the width of volute support 400 may remain the same. Each volute support 400 may include a mounting surface 402 with a flange brace 404 supported by a vertical surface 408 therebetween. Flange brace 404 may include a set of bolt holes 406 configured to match a flange pattern (e.g., an SAE standard pattern) at a suction flange of volute 34. For example, in one implementation, flange brace 404 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt hole pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with a 12-inch suction flange, such that two or more of bolt holes 406 align with the bolt pattern at the suction flange. In another implementation, flange brace 404 may include a radius of curvature and a bolt hole pattern that corresponds to a volute 34 with an 8-inch suction flange.

[0036] The height of flange brace 404 (e.g., in the Z-axis) may vary for different volute supports 400 and corresponding pump 30 sizes. Vertical surface 408 on volute support 400 may provide structural support for flange brace 404. For example, with respect to FIG. 13, in one implementation, the lowest point of curved flange brace 404 is configured to be at a height of 4 inches (10.16 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 of longitudinal slat 102. In contrast, with respect to FIG. 3, in another implementation, the lowest point of curved flange brace 404 may be configured to be at a height of 8 inches (20.32 centimeters) above horizontal panel 108 for other applications. The size of vertical surface 408 may vary with the height differences provided for each volute support 400.

[0037] Volute support 400 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 and position volute 34. Volute support 400 includes holes 410 in mounting surface 402 configured to align with some of the slots 112 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the volute support 400 relative to welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting surface 402 is configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10, since frame support 300 can be fully supported by slats 102 while frame support 300 is longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are installed through holes 410 and slots 112.

[0038] Volute support 400 may also include mounting tabs 412. In one implementation, mounting tabs 412 may each include a hole 414 to receive a bolted connection. Mounting tabs 412 may project, for example, from vertical surface 408. In one implementation, mounting tabs 412 may be slightly angled from vertical (e.g., between 5 and 30 degrees from the plane of vertical surface 408). As described further herein, mounting tabs 412 may provide an attachment point for check valve support 700. Mounting tabs 412 may be included, for example, on one or both sides of volute support 400 to accommodate different orientations of volute 34.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of electrical cabinet 500 for electric skid assembly 10. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 8, and 12, electrical cabinet 500 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while providing a vertical surface for mounting a control panel 50. Electrical cabinet 500 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized control panels 50. Control panel 50 may include, for example, quick-connect leads 52 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 13) to allow for safer installation on site. Each electrical cabinet 500 may include two side mounting brackets 502 (e.g., a right side and a left side) with a vertical mounting surface 504 therebetween. Mounting surface 504 may include a set of bolt holes 506 configured to match a mounting footprint of one or more types of control panels 50.

[0040] Electrical cabinet 500 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 of base 100 and position a control panel 50 relative to motor 20 and other components. Electrical cabinet 500 may include slots 510 in mounting brackets 502. Slots 510 may be configured to align with some of the bolt holes 110 on slats 102 and to receive bolts 150 so as to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of electrical cabinet 500 relative to welded base 100. In one implementation, mounting brackets 502 are configured to lie on top of (e.g., overlap) horizontal top panels 108, which may simplify construction of electric skid assembly 10, since electrical cabinet 500 can be fully supported by slats 102 while electrical cabinet 500 is being longitudinally adjusted and bolts 150 are being installed through slots 510 and holes 110.

[0041] FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of a side piece 610 and a top piece 620, respectively, of lifting bail 600 for electric skid assembly 10. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 9A, 9B, and 12 lifting bail 600 may generally be configured to span the width of base 100 between slats 102 while providing an accessible lifting point for skid assembly 10. Lifting bail 600 may comprise two identical side pieces 610 and a single top piece 620. In one implementation, side pieces 610 and top piece 620 of lifting bail 600 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different sized skid assemblies 10. For example, small or large sized side pieces 610 may be used with top piece 620 to ensure that lifting bail 600 is accessible over mounted equipment on skid assembly 10.

[0042] Each side piece 610 may include a beam 611 with a substantially C-shaped cross section. Side piece 610 may include a set of mounting holes 612 near one end of beam 611 (e.g., a bottom end) and a cross-piece flange 614 near an opposite end of beam 611. Cross-piece flange 614 may be welded and / or keyed to beam 611. Cross-piece flange 614 may include a set of holes 616. Mounting holes 612 may be configured to align with holes 114 in vertical panel 106 of longitudinal slat 102.

[0043] Top piece 620 may include a vertical panel 622 with a set of holes 626 on opposite ends (e.g., a left end and a right end) and a set of lifting holes 624 substantially in the middle of panel 622. Holes 626 may be configured to align with at least some of holes 616 in each side piece 620. As shown, for example, in FIG. 1, holes 616 of side pieces 610 and holes 626 of top piece 620 may be aligned and bolts 150 inserted therethrough to form lifting bail 600.

[0044] Lifting bail 600 may be configured to be bolted to slats 102 in one of multiple alignments along vertical panel 106. For example, vertical panel 106 may include multiple holes 114 in a pattern along a central portion of slat 102 that allows for forward / backward adjustment along the skid base 100 center. Using holes 114 and holes 612, beams 611 may be attached to slats 102 via bolts 150. In one implementation, lifting bail 600 can be moved forward or backward along holes 114 should there be interference with the other supports or the center of gravity needs adjustment, without moving any of the other components mounted on skid assembly 10.

[0045] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of check valve support 700. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 10, and 12, check valve support 700 may generally be configured to adjustably support (or brace) a check valve 40 that is attached to an exit port of volute 34. 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. 2) when attached to the exit port of volute 34.

[0046] In one implementation, check valve support 700 may include a set of arms 710 connected to a bracket 720. Each arm 710 may include two threaded rods 712 with opposite thread orientations and a turnbuckle 714 therebetween. Each arm 710 may include a ball joint 716 at opposite ends. As shown in FIG. 10, each of arm 710 may connect at one end to bracket 720 via one of ball joints 716. Bracket 720 may include a set of holes 722 (e.g., at opposite ends of bracket 720) for bolted attachment to ball joints 716.

[0047] Bracket 720 may also include as set of holes 724 for bolted attachment to check valve 40. For example, bracket 720 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 720 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.

[0048] Bracket 720 may be attached to check valve 40 such that arms 710 are positioned on each side (e.g., forward and aft along the Y-axis) of valve 40 body. As shown in FIG. 3, for example, ball joints 716 of arms 710 may attach to projections provided on the volute support 400 (e.g., mounting tabs 412) and the frame support 300 (e.g., mounting tabs 322) via bolted connections (e.g., bolts 150).

[0049] When check valve support 700 is connected to the volute support 400 (e.g., mounting tab 412), the frame support 300 (e.g., mounting tab 322), and the check valve 40 (e.g., flange 42), turnbuckles 714 may be threaded to extend threaded rods 712 and put arms 710 into compression. When in compression, arms 710 allow transfer of the check valve and associated piping loads into the welded base 100 and supports (e.g., frame support 300 and volute support 400), rather than relying on the moment loading of output flange 38. Check valve support 700 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.

[0050] While shown with a two-arm configuration in FIG. 10, in other implementations, check valve support 700 may use a single arm 710. For example, a single arm 710 may be attached between bracket 720 and either of frame support 300 (e.g., mounting tab 322) or volute support 400 (e.g., mounting tab 412). In still another implementation, one or more arms 710 may be bolted directly to frame 110. For example, instead of using mounting tabs 322 / 412, one or more projections may be welded or bolted to slat 102 to receive a ball joint of arm 710.

[0051] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of motor bracket 800. Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-3, 11, and 12, motor bracket 800 may provide a rigid, substantially-cylindrical housing that goes over the coupling of the motor 20 shaft and the pump 30 shaft. In one implementation, motor bracket 800 may include a cast cylinder 802 with a pump-facing flange 810 at one end and a motor-facing flange 820 at the other end. One or more access windows 804 may be formed in cylinder 802.

[0052] Pump-facing flange 810 may include a set of holes 812 to facilitate bolted attachment to pump 30. Pump-facing flange 810 may be sized to match a size and hole pattern of, for example, a flanged bracket that surrounds an input shaft on pump 30. In one implementation, flange 810 and holes 812 may be sized and oriented, for example, to meet one or more standardized interface requirements, such as a Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standard.

[0053] Motor-facing flange 820 may include a set of holes 822 to facilitate bolted attachment to motor 20. Motor-facing flange 820 may be sized to match a size and hole pattern on, for example, a face of motor 20 that surrounds an output (or drive) shaft. In one implementation, flange 820 and holes 822 may be sized and oriented, for example, to meet one or more standardized interface requirements.

[0054] In one implementation, motor bracket 800 (e.g., motor-facing flange 820) may be attached to motor 20, which is attached to motor support 200 during assembly of skid 10. Motor 20 and motor support 200 may be slid along longitudinal slats 102 to position pump-facing flange 810 against pump 30, which is attached to frame support 300. A technician may access the motor output shaft and the pump input shaft through windows 804 to complete the coupling. Motor bracket 800 (e.g., pump-facing flange 810) may then be attached to pump 30. Screw holes 806 may be provided around window 804 to attach a cover over windows 804 after the coupling is completed. Attachment of motor bracket 800 during skid 10 assembly may eliminate the need for initial alignment of the coupling by customers and may maintain alignment during transportation and setup at temporary use sites.

[0055] FIG. 14 is a flow chart of an example process 1400 for assembling electric skid assembly 10. Process 1400 may be performed, for example, by a supplier of electric skid assemblies, a pump and / or motor manufacturer, or some other entity associated with providing pumps and motors to work sites.

[0056] Process 1400 may include selecting an electric skid base sized for a pump class (block 1405). For example, a small, medium, or large base 100 may be selected to accommodate a motor 20 and pump 30 based on horsepower and / or other site-related requirements,

[0057] Process 1400 may also include selecting a motor support and resting the motor support on the base (block 1410), selecting a bearing frame support and resting the bearing frame support on the base (1415), and selecting a volute support and resting the volute support on the base (1420). For example, a motor support 200 may be selected from a group of differently-sized motor supports to match a footprint of a chosen motor 20 type. Motor support 200 may be configured to match a footprint of multiple different motors. Similarly, a frame support 300 may be selected from a group of differently-sized frame supports to match a footprint of a chosen bearing frame 32. Also, a volute support 400 may be selected to match a size and flange shape for a chosen volute 34. Each of motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may be placed on base 100 spanning from a right side slat 102 to a left side slat 102 so that each respective mounting bracket (e.g., mounting brackets 202, mounting brackets 302, and mounting surface 402) sits on horizontal top panel 108. In one implementation, one or more of motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may be partially secured (e.g., bolted) to slats 102.

[0058] Process 1400 may further include attaching a centrifugal pump to the bearing frame support and the volute support (block 1425) and attaching a motor bracket to the centrifugal pump (block 1430). For example, the bearing frame 32 of the selected pump 30 may be bolted to mounting surface 304, and the flange brace 404 of volute support 400 may be bolted to volute 34 of the selected pump 30. A motor bracket 800 of the appropriate size for the pump-motor combination may be attached (e.g., at pump-facing flange 810) to pump 30.

[0059] Process 1400 may additionally include attaching the motor to the motor support and coupling the motor to the centrifugal pump (block 1435) and securing the motor support, the volute support, and the frame support to the base (block 1440). For example, the selected motor 20 may be bolted to mounting surface 204 of motor support 200. The motor 20 / support 200 combination may be positioned such that an output shaft of motor 20 may be coupled to an input shaft of pump 30, which may cause the motor-facing flange 820 of motor bracket 800 to align with motor 20. Using access windows 804 the coupling may be secured / confirmed, and motor-facing flange 820 may be bolted to motor 20. Motor support 200, frame support 300, and volute support 400 may then be secured / bolted to slats 102. For example, bolts 150 may be inserted through slots 210 of motor support into bolt holes 110 of horizontal top panel 108 and tightened. Frame support 300 and volute support 400 may similarly secured.

[0060] Process 1400 may also include connecting a check valve to the centrifugal pump (block 1445) and attaching a check valve support between the check valve and the base (block 1450). For example, a check valve 40 may be attached at an output flange 38 of volute 34. Check valve support 700 may be secured to check valve 40 (e.g., by bolting bracket 720 to a flange 42 of check valve 40), frame support 300 (e.g., by bolting a ball joint 716 end to a mounting tab 322), and volute support 400 (e.g., by bolting a ball joint 716 end to a mounting tab 412). Adjustable arms 710 may then be extended slightly by rotating turnbuckles 714 to place arms 710 into compression for supporting check valve 40. Note that check valve 40 in the instant description also refers to a check valve assembly that includes the check valve 40 and one or more other corresponding components, e.g., bolts, fasteners, or other types of components suitable to be coupled with check valve 40.

[0061] Process 1400 may additionally include selecting an electrical cabinet and securing the cabinet to the base (block 1455), selecting mounting holes for positioning the lifting bail and bolting the lifting bail to the base (block 1460), and attaching an electrical panel and pump accessories (block 1465). For example, an electrical cabinet 500 may be selected from one of multiple different sizes to accommodate a control panel 50 sized for the selected pump 30 / motor 20 combination on skid assembly 10. The selected electrical cabinet 500 may be secured to slats 102 using mounting brackets 502. A top piece 620 may be attached to two side pieces 610 to form lifting bail 600, which may then be bolted to base 100 using selected holes 114 and holes 612. An electrical panel 50 may be secured to mounting surface 504, and other accessories (e.g., priming system, etc.) may be added to pump 30, if necessary.

[0062] As described herein, a modular skid assembly is provided for a pump driven by an electric motor. The skid assembly may include a base including slats, with first bolt holes and first longitudinal slots formed therein, and a cross beam connected to the slats. A motor support to position the motor may be configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A frame support to position a pump bearing frame may be configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A volute support to support a pump volute may be configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats. A lifting bail may be configured to be bolted to the slats in one of multiple longitudinal positions along the base. A check valve support may be configured to 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 base.

[0063] While a series of blocks has been described with regard to the processes illustrated in FIG. 14, 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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, 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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

[0016]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.

[0017]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 motor with an input shaft of a given pump when the motor 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. As part of a 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 connec...

Claims

1. A skid assembly, comprising:a base including:slats having first bolt holes and first longitudinal slots formed therein, anda cross beam connected to the slats;a motor support configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats, wherein the motor support positions a motor;a frame support configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats, wherein the frame support positions a pump bearing frame;a volute support configured to rest on the slats and to be bolted to the slats, wherein the volute support supports a pump volute;a lifting bail configured to be bolted to the slats in one of multiple longitudinal positions along the base; anda check valve support configured to brace a check valve extending from the pump volute, wherein the check valve support includes an adjustable arm that extends to put the adjustable arm in compression between the check valve and the base.

2. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a motor bracket attached to the pump bearing frame and the motor and around a coupling, wherein the motor bracket is configured to align the coupling of the pump bearing frame to the motor.

3. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the motor support includes second slots configured to align with some of the first bolt holes and to receive bolts to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the motor support relative to the base.

4. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame support includes third slots configured to align with some of the first bolt holes and to receive bolts to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the frame support relative to the base.

5. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the volute support includes second holes configured to align with some of the first longitudinal slots in the slats and to receive bolts to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the volute support relative to the base. and wherein the volute support includes a second projection configured to receive a bolted connection.

6. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the lifting bail includes multiple lifting holes distributed transversely on the lifting bail between the slats.

7. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:an electrical cabinet configured to be bolted to the slats, wherein the electrical cabinet includes third holes configured to align with some of the first longitudinal slots in the slats and to receive bolts to enable adjustment of a longitudinal position of the electrical cabinet relative to the base.

8. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame support includes two first projections, each of the two first projections being on opposite sides of the frame support, andwherein the volute support includes two second projections, each of the two second projections being on opposite sides of the volute support.

9. The skid assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame support includes a first projection configured to receive a bolted connection,wherein the volute support includes a second projection configured to receive a bolted connection, andwherein the check valve support includes a first adjustable length arm that attaches to the first projection and a second adjustable length arm that attaches to the second projection.

10. 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.

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

12. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:the motor,wherein the motor includes a motor footprint, wherein the motor support further includes holes that align with the motor footprint to enable bolting of the motor to the motor support.

13. The skid assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a pump, wherein the pump includes the pump bearing frame and the pump volute,wherein the pump bearing frame includes a pump footprint,wherein the motor support further includes holes that align with the pump footprint to enable bolting of the motor to the motor support.

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

15. A method of forming a pump skid assembly, the method comprising:selecting, from a group of differently-sized skid bases, a skid base for a pump class that corresponds to a chosen pump, wherein the skid base includes a pair of longitudinal slats connected by cross beams;selecting, from a group of differently-sized bearing frame supports, a bearing frame support that corresponds to a bearing frame of the chosen pump;selecting, from a group of differently-sized volute supports, a volute support that corresponds to a volute of the chosen pump;resting the bearing frame support on the pair of longitudinal slats and attaching the bearing frame to the bearing frame support;resting the volute support on the pair of longitudinal slats and attaching the volute to the volute support;securing the volute support and the bearing frame support to the pair of longitudinal slats;connecting a check valve to the volute;attaching a check valve support to the check valve, the bearing frame support, and the volute support, wherein the check valve support includes at least one adjustable arm connected between the check valve and one of the bearing frame support or the volute support; andextending the adjustable arm between the check valve and one of the bearing frame support or the volute support to place the adjustable arm in a compressive state.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising:selecting, from a group of differently-sized motor supports, a motor support that corresponds to a chosen motor;resting the motor support on the pair of slats and attaching the chosen motor to the motor support; andcoupling an output shaft of the chosen motor to an input shaft of the bearing frame, andsecuring the motor support, the volute support, and the bearing frame support to the skid base.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:attaching, prior to the coupling, a first end of a motor bracket to one of the bearing frame or the chosen motor; andattaching, after the coupling, a second end of the motor bracket to another one of the bearing frame or the chosen motor.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising:adjusting a longitudinal position of the motor support, relative to the skid base, to align slots on a mounting bracket of the motor support with bolt holes on top surfaces of the pair of longitudinal slats.

19. The method of claim 15, further comprising:selecting an electrical cabinet; andsecuring the electrical cabinet to the skid base.

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 with threads in opposite orientations,a turnbuckle joining the two threaded rods, anda ball joint at a respective end of each of the two threaded 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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