Combined Compression Seal for High-Pressure Reciprocating Pumps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reciprocating pumps experience leakage and maintenance challenges due to the degradation and deformation of elastomeric radial seals under high pressure and vibrations, leading to reduced performance and increased maintenance complexity.
Innovation Solution
A combined seal mechanism using a compression seal and metal-to-metal seal for the suction and discharge bores of the plunger portion, which minimizes vibratory movement and leakage, and is designed to withstand pressures up to 15,000 psig with reduced maintenance requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elastomeric radial seals (D-rings or O-rings) are used in reciprocating pumps, then sealing function is provided, but the seals weaken and deform under high pressure and vibrations causing leakage and pump failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from elastomeric (rubber) to metal, fundamentally altering the seal's physical properties to resist deformation under high pressure and vibration. The metal seal maintains its dimensional stability while providing the necessary sealing function, eliminating the degradation issues of elastomeric materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite sealing system combining metal seal elements with elastomeric O-rings. The metal components provide structural stability and resistance to deformation, while the elastomeric O-rings provide the sealing contact. This composite approach leverages the strengths of both material types to overcome the limitations of using either alone.
2Reliability
If elastomeric seals are stretched over the part during installation, then sealing is achieved, but the seals deform further during use causing blow by, extrusion, and nibbling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from elastomeric to metal, eliminating the need to stretch the seal during installation. The metal seal can be press-fitted or mechanically retained without undergoing the permanent deformation that elastomeric materials experience when stretched, thereby maintaining its shape and sealing integrity throughout operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a retention ring that can be easily installed and removed, allowing for quick replacement of the seal assembly. This approach treats the seal as a consumable component that can be rapidly exchanged rather than attempting to extend its service life through design modifications, reducing maintenance downtime.
3Ease of repair
If force is applied to remove the suction cap and radial seal, then seal replacement is possible, but frictional forces make removal difficult requiring purpose-built pullers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the seal assembly into modular components: the radial seal, the retention ring, and the suction/discharge caps. This segmentation allows each component to be independently accessed and replaced. The retention ring acts as a separate element that can be removed with simple tools, eliminating the need for complex pullers.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention ring serves as an intermediary element between the radial seal and the suction/discharge caps. It provides a mechanical interface that simplifies installation and removal, allowing the seal assembly to be detached without applying excessive force to the cap itself, thereby eliminating the need for purpose-built pullers.
4Reliability
If D-rings degrade and erode allowing media leakage, then sealing performance decreases, but the worn bore requires even more compression that new seals cannot provide
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the seal material from elastomeric to metal, which fundamentally alters the wear characteristics. Metal seals are significantly more resistant to erosion and degradation from abrasive media compared to elastomeric materials. This parameter change prevents the progressive wear that leads to bore enlargement and sealing failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention incorporates a backup ring or support structure behind the metal seal that prevents extrusion into the extrusion gap. This protective element acts as a cushion that absorbs the high pressure forces, preventing the seal from being forced into the gap where it would degrade and cause bore wear. The backup ring maintains the seal's position and protects both the seal and the bore from damage.
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 combined seal significantly reduces leakage and enhances the operational efficiency of the pump, allowing for extended maintenance cycles with minimal operator input, as it maintains sealing integrity and simplifies maintenance procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A compression seal broadly is a device that joins parts in a system or mechanism together and prevents leakage of usually fluids from the device
Implementation Method 2
The plungers perform a reciprocating motion through multiple threaded bores for facilitating the motion of high pressure fluid through the fluid end
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to use of a combined seal involving a compression seal coupled with a metal-to-metal seal for use on the suction and discharge side of the plunger portion of a reciprocating pump. This combined seal results in less vibratory movement and better pumping during use of the pump, and an overall more efficient pump based on the improved seal.