Fluid end with curved internal cavity profile

Abstract

A fluid end assembly includes a fluid end and a plurality of valve assemblies each located within a cavity that has curved internal profiles. The curved internal profiles of the cavities are concaved outward. A plunger is included to provide variations in pressure within the fluid end so as to facilitate movement of the working fluid. A discharge plug is included in communication with the fluid end. The discharge plug may include a curved profile along an inner surface that corresponds with one of the cavities therein. A suction plug is releasably coupled to the fluid end and includes a curved profile along an inner surface. The suction plug also includes a recess for acceptance of a spring retainer. The spring retainer is included to support a suction valve assembly.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 555,546, filed 7 Sep. 2017. The information contained therein is hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present application relates generally to a reciprocating pump, and in particular to a fluid end having a curved internal cavity profile for the reduction of turbulent flow and cavitation in the system.2. Description of Related Art[0003]It is difficult to economically produce hydrocarbons from low permeability reservoir rocks. Oil and gas production rates are often boosted by hydraulic fracturing, a technique that increases rock permeability by opening channels through which hydrocarbons can flow to recovery wells. During hydraulic fracturing, a fluid is pumped into the earth under high pressure (sometimes as high as 50,000 PSI) where it enters a reservoir rock and cracks or fractures it. Large quantities of proppants are carried in suspension by ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent aims to provide a fluid end assembly with curved internal cavity profiles to reduce internal stresses and create a more laminar flow of proppant. This design helps to mitigate turbulent and cavitation present in the proppant. The suction plug is composed of a single member with a radiused profile and a spring retainer is seated in the suction cavity to hold the valve. The suction plug also includes a flat face to align the spring retainer in position and prevent it from rotating. The patent also provides a curved profile in the suction cavity to guide the spring retainer in position and stops it from rotating circumferentially relative to the bore diameter. These features improve the function of the fluid end assembly and enhance the performance of the valve.

Problems solved by technology

Additionally, when fully seated, a gap is always present above the mating surfaces and seal.

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