Power-End Frame Fastener Assembly for Reciprocating Pump Deflection Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

High pressure reciprocating pumps experience structural integrity issues due to stress and deformation during operation, leading to reduced lifespan and increased downtime, particularly in high-pressure applications like hydraulic fracturing.

Innovation Solution

A power end frame design using a fastener assembly that couples multiple rings together with a rod and locks, providing additional structural support to prevent deflection and deformation, supplemented by welds if necessary.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the power end frame uses a traditional single-piece or welded construction, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the structural integrity and resistance to stress-induced deformation are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidframe construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power end frame is divided into multiple separate rings that are coupled together using fastener assemblies. Each ring can be manufactured independently and then assembled, allowing for better stress distribution and reduced deformation while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular construction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Stress or pressure

If the power end frame is designed to withstand high stress, then the pump can operate at higher pressures, but the frame becomes more prone to deformation and failure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperating pressureVSAvoidframe durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stress or pressureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing the frame into multiple rings with fastener assemblies allows stress to be distributed across multiple connection points rather than concentrated in welds, reducing deformation and improving reliability under high operating pressures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame combines different materials or material treatments in the rings and fasteners to create a composite structure that can better withstand high stress while maintaining dimensional stability and reducing deformation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Duration of action of stationary object

If the power end frame uses traditional construction methods, then the initial manufacturing cost is lower, but the lifespan is reduced and maintenance downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveframe lifespanVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The modular ring design with fastener assemblies enables easier maintenance and replacement of individual components, extending the overall lifespan of the frame while the initial manufacturing complexity is offset by reduced maintenance downtime.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design allows individual rings or fasteners to be replaced when worn, extending the lifespan of the overall frame structure without requiring complete replacement, thereby improving cost-effectiveness over time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentUS20250257726A1Power end of reciprocating pump with fastener assembly

Publication Date: 2025.08.14 GD ENERGY PRODUCTS LLC

AI summary

A power end frame includes a plurality of rings cooperatively defining an interior of the power end frame configured to enclose a portion of a crankshaft of a power end of the reciprocating pump and a rod extending through each ring of the plurality of rings to couple each ring with an adjacent ring of the plurality of rings.