Dual Engine Parallel Pumping Trailer With Flow-Smoothing Baffle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pumping systems at oil and gas extraction sites are unable to meet the increased demand for pumping liquids at higher flow rates, such as 4,200 gallons per minute, without requiring new engines and pumps, and need to be easily transportable, safe, and cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A dual engine parallel pumping trailer system with two pumps connected to engines, a baffle at the convergence point to smooth flow, pressure and flow rate sensors, and a master control system to manage operations, allowing for efficient and balanced liquid transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single engine and pump are used, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but the pumping capacity is insufficient to meet the increased demand of 4,200 gallons per minute
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the pumping task into two separate pumping lines, each with its own engine and pump. This segmentation allows each unit to operate independently at 2,100 gallons per minute, combining to achieve the total capacity of 4,200 gallons per minute while maintaining operational simplicity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines two independent pumping systems into a single integrated trailer unit. The merging of two engines, two pumps, and their supporting infrastructure into one transportable platform achieves the required pumping capacity while consolidating the system into a manageable and deployable configuration
2Productivity
If two engines and pumps are combined in one trailer, then the pumping capacity increases to 4,200 gallons per minute, but the trailer width may exceed road travel restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The system arranges the two pumping lines and their components in a three-dimensional space that optimizes for width constraints. By vertically stacking equipment, utilizing vertical clearance, and arranging components in multiple levels rather than purely horizontal layouts, the design achieves 4,200 gallons per minute capacity while keeping the trailer width within legal road travel dimensions
3Productivity
If liquid flows converge without a baffle, then the system is simpler, but the flow convergence is turbulent and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
A baffle plate is introduced as an intermediary element at the convergence point of the two pumping lines. This baffle redirects and smooths the liquid flow from both lines before they merge into the common discharge line, reducing turbulence and improving flow efficiency while adding minimal structural complexity
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 system effectively doubles the pumping capacity to 4,200 gallons per minute using existing engines and pumps, is easily transportable, cost-effective, and ensures safe and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
a baffle is placed at the intersection. The baffle is configured to smooth the convergence of the flow of liquid at the intersection
Data Source
AI summary
In one or more arrangements, a pumping system is presented having a plurality of pumps with inlets and outlets, wherein liquid enters the pumps through the inlets and exists the pumps through the outlets. In one or more arrangements, the pumping system has a plurality of engines configured to provide power to the plurality of pumps. In one or more arrangements, the pumping system has a plurality of tubes connected to the plurality of pumps such that liquid exiting the plurality of pumps flows through the plurality of tubes. In one or more arrangements, the plurality of tubes, and liquid flowing through the plurality of tubes, converge at an intersection. In one or more arrangements, the pumping system has a baffle positioned at the intersection to smooth the convergence of the liquid flowing through the plurality of tubes.