Valve Cover Lock Assembly Reducing Torque via Cone Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve cover locks for mud pumps require high torque for proper installation and removal, leading to potential misalignment and increased downtime due to the need for significant force to secure the valve cover, which can result in reduced pump performance and accelerated wear.
Innovation Solution
A valve cover lock assembly comprising a ring, an insert with radially movable segments, and a cone nut that reduces the required torque for installation and removal by using a cone to move segments radially outward, providing improved resistance to movement during pumping operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional threaded valve pot covers are used to secure valve covers during pumping operations, then the valve covers can withstand high operating pressures, but a relatively large amount of torque (up to 8000-9000 ft-lbs) is required to tighten the covers sufficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The valve cover lock assembly is divided into multiple functional segments: a ring component, an insert with radially movable segments, and a cone nut. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to distribute and manage forces more effectively, reducing the torque required for installation while maintaining adequate locking strength during high-pressure pumping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert includes radially movable segments that can dynamically adjust their position. When the cone nut is tightened, these segments move radially outward to engage with the ring, creating a progressive locking action that reduces the peak torque requirement compared to conventional static threaded connections.
2Reliability
If conventional threaded valve cover locks are used, then the valve covers can be secured for high pressure operations, but removal and reinstallation require significant time and effort due to the high torque needed
Solution Approach 1:
The radially movable segments in the insert create a dynamic locking mechanism that engages progressively as the cone nut is tightened. During removal, the segments can be easily disengaged by backing off the cone nut, significantly reducing the time and effort required for maintenance operations while maintaining reliable locking during pumping.
Solution Approach 2:
The cone nut acts as an intermediary component that translates rotational motion into radial movement of the insert segments. This intermediary mechanism provides mechanical advantage, allowing the operator to achieve secure locking with less effort and time compared to direct threaded connections.
3Strength
If high torque is applied to tighten conventional valve covers, then the valve covers can withstand pumping pressures, but misalignment may occur and wear components may accelerate
Solution Approach 1:
The radially movable segments allow the locking mechanism to adapt dynamically during tightening, distributing the loading more evenly and reducing peak stresses that cause misalignment and wear. This progressive engagement protects wear components from accelerated degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism changes the operational parameters from high-torque static loading to progressive radial engagement. This parameter change reduces the harmful effects of misalignment and distributed wear on pump components during high-pressure operations.
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 allows for easier and faster installation and removal of the valve cover lock, reducing downtime and maintaining pump performance while withstanding high pressures, thus enhancing the structural integrity of the valve system.
Implementation Method 1
a cone adapted to be at least partially disposed within an opening in the insert... wherein the cone is configured to move one or more of the plurality of segments when the cone is moved
Data Source
AI summary
A valve cover lock assembly for a pump having a fluid end module can include a ring adapted to couple to the module, an insert comprising a plurality of segments, and a cone adapted to couple with the insert, wherein the ring comprises a first coupler and the insert comprises a second coupler configured to couple with the first coupler, wherein the cone is configured to move one or more of the plurality of segments when the cone is moved, and wherein the first and second couplers are adapted to at least partially resist movement of the insert. A method of locking a valve cover can include coupling a ring to a valve cover opening, disposing an insert comprising a plurality of segments at least partially within the ring, coupling an actuator to the insert, and coupling the insert to the ring.