Monolithic Reciprocating Pump Power End for Force Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High-pressure reciprocating pumps experience structural integrity issues due to concentrated forces exerted by the fluid end, leading to frequent maintenance and reduced operational lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic core design for the power end of a reciprocating pump, featuring a base with integral extensions and ribs, distributed apertures, and openings for crankshaft and couplers, which distribute forces and enhance structural rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power end components are used, then the pump can operate, but the concentrated forces cause structural integrity issues and frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate power end components (base, extensions, ribs, openings) into a single monolithic core structure. This integration eliminates the need for multiple separate parts that would require assembly and connection, thereby improving structural integrity by removing potential failure points at joints while reducing overall device complexity through consolidation.
2Strength
If the power end components are separate, then manufacturing is easier, but the structural rigidity is reduced under high forces
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple components into one monolithic core, the patent achieves superior structural rigidity that can withstand high forces from the fluid end. The monolithic structure eliminates weak joints between separate parts. While manufacturing a single large component may be more challenging than making smaller separate parts, the design optimizes the monolithic structure to balance manufacturability with the required strength and rigidity.
3Ease of repair
If multiple separate components are used, then maintenance is easier, but downtime increases due to frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The monolithic core structure reduces the number of parts that can fail or require maintenance. By integrating multiple functions into one robust component, the patent minimizes the frequency of maintenance interventions. Although access to the integrated structure may require careful design for serviceability, the overall reduction in maintenance frequency significantly decreases downtime compared to traditional multi-component designs that require frequent repairs.
Data Source
AI summary
A power end includes a monolithic core with a base having a surface configured to mount to a fluid end of the reciprocating pump and a plurality of extensions integral to the base. Each extension of the plurality of extensions includes a ring portion that defines an opening configured to receive a crankshaft of the reciprocating pump. The power end also includes a plurality of plates separate from the monolithic core. Each plate of the plurality of plates extends between a pair of adjacent of extensions of the plurality of extensions to enclose the monolithic core.


