Fluid End Wedge Clamp Assembly for Joint Fatigue Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high pressure reciprocating pumps face issues with joint fatigue failure due to improper pre-loading of threaded retainers, leading to high cyclical stress and reduced performance and lifespan of fluid end components.
Innovation Solution
A retaining assembly with a wedge-shaped geometry is used to secure fluid end components to the casing, allowing for pre-loading of the joint to match operational stress levels, thereby increasing fatigue life and reducing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded retainers are used to secure elements to the fluid end casing, then the joint can be assembled, but the threads are subject to high cyclical stress and are not pre-loaded correctly, leading to fatigue failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the threaded retainer component entirely from the joint assembly. Instead of using threads to secure the fluid end element, the invention uses a simple clamp that applies compression force directly to the element and casing, eliminating the threaded connection that was prone to fatigue failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of joint securing from threaded mechanical engagement to compression-based clamping. By applying continuous compressive force through the clamp, the joint achieves pre-loading without threads, thereby eliminating cyclical stress on threaded components and improving fatigue life.
2Ease of repair
If large threaded retainers are used to secure elements to the fluid end casing, then the joint can be assembled, but the assembly is complex and difficult to service
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the threaded retainer component entirely from the joint assembly. Instead of using threads to secure the fluid end element, the invention uses a simple clamp that applies compression force directly to the element and casing, eliminating the threaded connection that was prone to fatigue failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assembly is segmented into simple, discrete components: the clamp, the fluid end element, and the casing. This segmentation allows for easy disassembly and reassembly, improving serviceability by enabling quick replacement of the fluid end element without complex threaded fastening operations.
3Productivity
If threaded retainers are used to secure elements to the fluid end casing, then the joint can be assembled, but the threads do not provide correct pre-load, reducing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of joint securing from threaded mechanical engagement to compression-based clamping. By applying continuous compressive force through the clamp, the joint achieves pre-loading without threads, thereby eliminating cyclical stress on threaded components and improving fatigue life.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is designed to apply pre-load force to the fluid end element before the pump begins operation. This preliminary compression ensures the joint is properly loaded from the start, eliminating the need for precise thread tightening and ensuring optimal performance from initialization.
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 wedge-shaped geometry enhances the pre-load stress on the joint, improving the performance and longevity of the fluid end components without the need for threads, facilitating easier maintenance and serviceability.
Implementation Method 1
The retaining assembly includes a clamp with a wedge-shaped geometry. A benefit of the wedge-shaped geometry is that it allows the clamp to be pre-loaded to a stress level that is close or similar to the stress level that the joint will experience during operation of the pump.
Implementation Method 2
The retaining feature or clamp utilizes a minimal number of connectors due to the mechanical advantage provided by the wedge geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining assembly for coupling a fluid end component to a fluid end casing. The retaining assembly includes a pair for clamp members, each of which has a pair of rails that define a wedge-shaped groove therebetween. The groove applying an increasing amount of pre-load force or tension to a flange of the fluid end components and a flange of the fluid end casing to drive them together. The amount of pre-load tension applied can vary and can be determined by the user and amount of tightening of the clamp members.