Double Acting Fluid End With Modular Check Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid ends in high-pressure fluid delivery systems are prone to quick degradation, material failures, and maintenance issues, leading to operational outages and high economic costs, with a need for more reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions that can convert single acting pump performance to double acting pump functionality.
Innovation Solution
A double acting fluid end arrangement featuring a piston translating within a block, connected to a pump, with check valves in housings allowing fluid flow and pressure in both directions, utilizing modular and self-contained cartridge-style check valves for efficient operation and easy maintenance, and made of durable materials like stainless steel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional single acting fluid end is used, then the structure is simple, but the productivity is limited because fluid can only be pumped in one direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two fluid end assemblies into a single integrated unit with a common piston, allowing the system to function as a double-acting pump. The piston simultaneously operates both fluid end assemblies, enabling fluid to be pumped during both forward and reverse strokes, thereby doubling the productivity without requiring two separate pumps.
Solution Approach 2:
The single piston serves multiple functions by simultaneously actuating both fluid end assemblies. This multi-functional design allows one piston to perform the work of two pistons in conventional single-acting systems, achieving double-acting pump functionality where fluid is delivered on both sides of the piston during operation.
2Reliability
If conventional fluid end materials and designs are used, then manufacturing is easier, but the reliability deteriorates due to quick degradation under high stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction by integrating multiple material components including stainless steel check valves, elastomeric seals, and metallic housing structures. This composite approach allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to enhance overall reliability and resistance to degradation under high-stress conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid end assembly is divided into modular segments including separate check valve assemblies, piston components, and housing sections. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of individual components, quality control during assembly, and simplified replacement of worn parts, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while improving overall reliability.
3Productivity
If conventional single-acting pump configuration is used, then the device complexity is lower, but the productivity function is insufficient because it cannot utilize both pushing and pulling motions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-direction (one-dimensional) fluid pumping to bidirectional (two-dimensional) fluid pumping by arranging fluid end assemblies on opposite sides of the piston. This dimensional change allows the system to exploit both the pushing motion and pulling motion of the piston, effectively utilizing the full cycle of piston movement to generate flow and pressure in both directions.
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 enhances fluid handling efficiency by allowing both pushing and pulling motions, increasing flow and pressure within horsepower limits, reducing maintenance needs, and extending equipment lifespan while lowering operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least a first suction check valve and a first discharge check valve located in the first housing. The arrangement may also comprise at least a second suction check valve and a second discharge check valve located in the second housing
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid end that provides for fluid transference in a double acting configuration. The fluid end acts for both suction and discharge operations and wherein fluid is ejected from the fluid end for high pressure environments.