Spring-Loaded Chain Tensioner for Submersible Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chain tensioning arrangements for submersible pumps in column pipes require the chain to be removed before operation to prevent damage from liquid currents, leading to cumbersome reattachment and potential cable damage, and lack controlled oscillation reduction.
Innovation Solution
A chain tensioning arrangement with a spring-loaded arm that extends radially to engage the chain, reducing oscillations and allowing the chain to remain in place, featuring adjustable displacement and pivotable components to manage chain tension and support the pump's weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the chain is removed from the column pipe before pump operation, then damage from liquid current oscillations is prevented, but the reattachment process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The chain is pre-attached to the pump lifting handle before pump installation, and the chain tensioning arrangement is pre-configured in the column pipe. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for cumbersome reattachment operations later, as the chain remains in place throughout operation
Solution Approach 2:
The chain tensioning arrangement acts as an intermediary device that secures the chain in a controlled manner within the column pipe. This intermediary mechanism allows the chain to remain attached to the pump while preventing harmful oscillations, thus protecting cables without requiring chain removal
2Productivity
If the chain remains in the column pipe during pump operation, then operational time is reduced, but liquid currents cause violent oscillations that damage electric cables
Solution Approach 1:
The chain tensioning arrangement applies a preliminary counteracting force to the chain through spring-loaded arms that engage with the chain. This pre-established counter-force prevents the chain from developing violent oscillations when exposed to liquid currents during pump operation
Solution Approach 2:
The chain tensioning arrangement uses movable spring-loaded arms that can dynamically adjust their position and engagement with the chain. This dynamic mechanism allows the system to respond to varying chain oscillation forces while maintaining controlled tension throughout operation
3Ease of operation
If a guide wire is used to control chain positioning, then hook attachment is facilitated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for separate guide wires by integrating the chain positioning function directly into the chain tensioning arrangement. The spring-loaded arms provide inherent chain guidance and control without requiring additional guide wire components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces chain oscillations, eliminates the need for a dedicated wire for electric cables, and enables controlled hoisting and lowering of the pump, reducing operational time and preventing cable damage.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arrangement connected to the cross beam and comprising at least one spring member
Implementation Method 2
an arm that is movably connected to the cross beam... said at least one spring member being arranged to displace the arm in the direction from the lower position towards the upper position
Data Source
AI summary
A chain tensioning arrangement for a column pipe which is configured to house a submersible pump. The chain tensioning arrangement includes a radially extending cross beam, a spring arrangement connected to the cross beam, at least one spring member, and an arm that is movably connected to the cross beam. The arm includes an engagement member configured to optionally engage a chain connected to the pump. The arm is displaceable in the axial direction between a lower position and an upper position. The spring member is arranged to displace the arm in the direction from the lower position towards the upper position. Also described is a pump station including a column pipe, a submersible pump arranged in the column pipe and an axially extending chain connected to the pump and configured to move the pump in the column pipe.