SYSTEM FOR DISTRIBUTING WORKING FLUID FLOW ACROSS INLET PASSAGES OF RECIPROCATING PUMPS

Abstract

A system for distributing a fluid flow across multiple inlet passages of a reciprocating pump includes an auger configured to be positioned into a suction manifold fluidly coupled with the multiple inlet passages of the reciprocating pump. The auger defines an axis, a first axial end, a second axial end, and a helical body extending between the first axial end and the second axial end. The auger is receivable into the suction manifold such that the first axial end is positioned to receive the fluid flow and force the fluid to move along a helical path defined by the helical body to introduce an angular momentum into the fluid flow. The system includes an end flange fixedly coupled to the second axial end proximate the opening. The system further includes a clamp arrangement for the auger wherein the clamp arrangement is movable between a clamped state and an unclamped state.

Claims

1. A system for distributing a fluid flow across multiple inlet passages of a reciprocating pump, the system comprising: an auger configured to be positioned into a suction manifold fluidly coupled with the multiple inlet passages of the reciprocating pump, the auger defining an axis, a first axial end, a second axial end, and a helical body extending between the first axial end and the second axial end, wherein the auger is receivable into the suction manifold such that: the first axial end is positioned to receive the fluid flow and force the fluid to move along a helical path defined by the helical body to introduce an angular momentum into the fluid flow, and the second axial end is positioned towards an opening of the suction manifold; an end flange fixedly coupled to the second axial end proximate the opening; and a clamp arrangement for the auger, the clamp arrangement movable between a clamped state and an unclamped state, wherein in the clamped state, the clamp arrangement engages the end flange with an end of the suction manifold defining the opening to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold, and in the unclamped state, the auger is removable from the suction manifold through the opening.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the auger defines a void passing through the helical body to define an inner helical periphery of the helical body, the system further including a plurality of coupler rods fixedly connected to the inner helical periphery and to the end flange to fixedly retain the end flange with the helical body.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of coupler rods is arranged along the inner helical periphery in a rotational array around the axis and is equidistantly spaced with respect to one another along the rotational array to rigidly support the helical body with the end flange.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the end flange defines a base and a stepped surface extending from the base, the stepped surface is insertable into the suction manifold through the opening to center the second axial end of the auger relative to the suction manifold, and the base is configured to rest against the end of the suction manifold.

5. The system of claim 1, further including an end support fixedly coupled to the first axial end, wherein the end support is engageable with the suction manifold to center the first axial end of the auger relative to the suction manifold.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the end support includes a hub, an outer ring circumventing the hub and abuttable with an inner wall of the suction manifold, and a plurality of spokes coupling the hub with the outer ring, and wherein the plurality of coupler rods is fixedly connected to the hub, and gaps are defined between consecutive spokes of the plurality of spokes to provide passage to the fluid flow across the end support and allow the first axial end to receive the fluid flow.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the clamp arrangement includes a first clamping part and a second clamping part claspable with the first clamping part to move the clamp arrangement to the clamped state, and the first clamping part is configured to engage first portions of the end and the end flange with each other and the second clamping part configured to engage second portions of the end and the end flange with each other when the first clamping part is clasped with the second clamping part to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the first clamping part and the second clamping part include one or more bores to receive one or more fasteners therein, wherein the one or more fasteners are configured to couple and clasp the first clamping part with the second clamping part to engage the end flange with the end of the suction manifold defining the opening to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold.

9. A system comprising: an auger configured to be positioned into a suction manifold that is fluidly coupled with multiple inlet passages of a reciprocating pump, the auger defining an axis, a first axial end, a second axial end, and a helical body extending between the first axial end and the second axial end; an end flange fixedly coupled to the second axial end; an end support fixedly coupled to the first axial end and configured to fit with the suction manifold to center the first axial end of the auger relative to the suction manifold; and a plurality of coupler rods fixedly connected to the helical body and fixedly connected between the end support and the end flange to fixedly retain the end support and the end flange with the helical body.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the auger defines a void passing through the helical body to define an inner helical periphery of the helical body.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the plurality of coupler rods is arranged along the inner helical periphery in a rotational array around the axis and each coupler rod, of the plurality of coupler rods, is equidistantly spaced with respect to one another along the rotational array, and the plurality of coupler rods include three coupler rods separated by an angular offset of 120 degrees along the rotational array.

12. The system of claim 9, wherein the end flange defines a base and a stepped surface extending from the base, the stepped surface is inserted into the suction manifold through the opening to center the second axial end of the auger relative to the suction manifold, and the base rests against the end of the suction manifold.

13. The system of claim 9, wherein the end support defines gaps to provide passage to a fluid flow across the end support.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the end support includes a hub, an outer ring circumventing the hub and abutted with an inner wall of the suction manifold, and a plurality of spokes coupling the hub with the outer ring, and wherein the plurality of coupler rods is fixedly connected to the hub, and the gaps are defined between consecutive spokes of the plurality of spokes to provide passage to the fluid flow across the end support and allow the first axial end to receive the fluid flow.

15. The system of claim 9, further including a clamp arrangement for the auger, the clamp arrangement movable between a clamped state and an unclamped state, wherein in the clamped state, the clamp arrangement engages the end flange with an end of the suction manifold defining an opening to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold, and in the unclamped state, the auger is removable from the suction manifold through the opening, and wherein the clamp arrangement includes a first clamping part and a second clamping part claspable with the first clamping part to move the clamp arrangement to the clamped state, and the first clamping part is configured to engage first portions of the end and the end flange with each other and the second clamping part configured to engage second portions of the end and the end flange with each other when the first clamping part is clasped with the second clamping part to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first clamping part and the second clamping part include one or more bores to receive one or more fasteners therein, wherein the one or more fasteners are configured to couple and clasp the first clamping part with the second clamping part to engage the end flange with the end of the suction manifold defining the opening to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold.

17. A method for distributing a fluid flow across multiple inlet passages of a reciprocating pump, the method comprising: positioning an auger into a suction manifold fluidly coupled with the multiple inlet passages of the reciprocating pump, the auger defining an axis, a first axial end, a second axial end, and a helical body extending between the first axial end and the second axial end, wherein the auger is receivable into the suction manifold such that: the first axial end is positioned to receive the fluid flow and force the fluid to move along a helical path defined by the helical body to induce an angular momentum into the fluid flow, and the second axial end is positioned towards an opening of the suction manifold; fixedly coupling an end flange to the second axial end proximate the opening; and using a clamp arrangement for the auger, the clamp arrangement movable between a clamped state and an unclamped state, wherein in the clamped state, the clamp arrangement engages the end flange with an end of the suction manifold defining the opening to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold, and in the unclamped state, the auger is removable from the suction manifold through the opening.

18. The method of claim 17 further including fixedly coupling an end support to the first axial end, wherein the end support is engageable with the suction manifold to center the first axial end of the auger relative to the suction manifold, the end support includes a hub, an outer ring circumventing the hub and abutted with an inner wall of the suction manifold, and a plurality of spokes coupling the hub with the outer ring, the plurality of coupler rods is fixedly connected to the hub, and gaps are defined between consecutive spokes of the plurality of spokes to provide passage to the fluid flow across the end support and allow the first axial end to receive the fluid flow.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the auger defines a void passing through the helical body to define an inner helical periphery of the helical body, a plurality of coupler rods fixedly connected to the helical periphery and to the end flange to fixedly retain the end flange with the helical body, and the end flange defines a base and a stepped surface extending from the base, the stepped surface is insertable into the suction manifold through the opening to center the second axial end of the auger relative to the suction manifold, and the base is configured to rest against the end of the suction manifold.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the clamp arrangement includes a first clamping part and a second clamping part claspable with the first clamping part to move the clamp arrangement to the clamped state, and the first clamping part is configured to engage first portions of the end and the end flange with each other and the second clamping part configured to engage second portions of the end and the end flange with each other when the first clamping part is clasped with the second clamping part to removably and immovably retain the auger within the suction manifold.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary reciprocating pump, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIGS. 2 and 3 are various perspective views of a fluid end and a suction manifold of the exemplary reciprocating pump of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid end of FIG. 3 along a section 4-4 provided in FIG. 3, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an auger used for positioning within the suction manifold of the reciprocating pump of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a side view of the auger of FIG. 5, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the auger of FIG. 6 along a section 7-7 provided in FIG. 6, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the auger viewed in conjunction with the suction manifold, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the auger and the suction manifold of the reciprocating pump of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0016] FIG. 10 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary method for distributing a fluid flow across multiple inlet passages of the reciprocating pump, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments or features, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or the like parts.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary reciprocating pump 100 is described. In the embodiment illustrated, the reciprocating pump 100 may be used in a variety of industrial operations such as, but not limited to, fracturing, cementing, acidizing, gravel packing, snubbing, and the like. The reciprocating pump 100 may include a power end 104, and a fluid end 108. The power end 104 is coupled to the fluid end 108. The power end 104 may include a crank assembly (not shown) which may be driven by an external power source (not shown), such as but not limited to, an engine, a motor, and the like, which allows the reciprocating pump 100 to draw a fluid (e.g., fracking fluid) from a reservoir (not shown) into the fluid end 108. The fracturing fluid is commonly called a slurry, which may be a mixture of water, abrasive proppants (silica sand or ceramic), and corrosive chemical additives.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the fluid end 108 may include a cylinder block 106. The cylinder block 106 may include multiple inlet passages 114 and external surfaces. For example, the cylinder block 106 includes a mounting surface 110 that may be directed towards the power end 104 and used to secure the fluid end 108 to the power end 104, e.g. by using fasteners or bolts 120. The cylinder block 106 further includes a first surface or a top surface 112, a second surface or a bottom surface 112opposite to the top surface 112, and a third surface or a front surface 112. The cylinder block 106 may be formed from a high strength steel via a forging process. In some embodiments, the fluid end 108 may be formed of any other material known in the art via alternate manufacturing process such as, but not limited to, casting, additive manufacturing, and the like.

[0020] Referring to FIG. 4, as shown in the cross-sectional view of the cylinder block 106 of the fluid end 108, the cylinder block 106 includes a first internal surface 124, a second internal surface 126, a third internal surface 128, and a fourth internal surface 130. The cylinder block 106 defines a first set of fluid bores 118 and a discharge manifold 116. The cylinder block 106 may further define other sets of fluid bores (e.g., a second set of fluid bores, a third set of fluid bores, and the like) positioned in line with the first set of fluid bores 118. The first set of fluid bores 118 may include multiple fluid bores (e.g., a first bore 136 defined by the first internal surface 124, a second bore 140 defined by the second internal surface 126, a third bore 144 defined by the third internal surface 128, and a fourth bore 148 defined by the fourth internal surface 130). The cylinder block 106 of the fluid end 108 further defines a common volume chamber 152 that fluidly couples the first bore 136, the second bore 140, the third bore 144, and the fourth bore 148 with each other. The first bore 136 may extend from the second surface 112 to the common volume chamber 152. The second bore 140 may extend from the mounting surface 110 to the common volume chamber 152. The third bore 144 may extend from the third surface 112 to the common volume chamber 152. The fourth bore 148 may extend from the first surface 112 to the common volume chamber 152.

[0021] The second bore 140 is configured to receive a plunger 156 of the power end 104. The plunger 156 is configured to reciprocate within the second bore 140 (e.g., with the help of the crank assembly of the power end 104) to selectively generate a negative pressure and a positive pressure in the first set of fluid bores 118. For example, the negative pressure is generated in the first set of fluid bores 118 to receive a fluid flow and the positive pressure is generated in the first set of fluid bores 118 to discharge the fluid flow out from the first set of fluid bores 118. The fourth bore 148 is fluidly coupled to a discharge passage 160, defined in the cylinder block 106 of the fluid end 108, which serves as a passageway to transmit the fluid (e.g., a pressurized fracking fluid) from the fourth bore 148 to the discharge manifold 116.

[0022] The first bore 136 is configured to receive an inlet valve 164. The inlet valve 164 engages with the first internal surface 124. The inlet valve 164 may include a valve seat 164a and a valve member 164b engaged therewith. Similarly, the fourth bore 148 is configured to receive an outlet valve 168. The outlet valve 168 engages with the fourth internal surface 130. The outlet valve 168 may include a valve seat 168a and a valve member 168b engaged therewith. In some embodiments, each of the inlet valve 164 and the outlet valve 168 may be a spring-loaded, unidirectional valve that is actuated by a predetermined pressure differential thereacross.

[0023] The fourth bore 148 is configured to receive a plug 172 and a fastener 174. The plug 172 and the fastener 174 engage with the fourth internal surface 130. In some embodiments, the fastener 174 may be disconnected from the fluid end 108 to provide access to the plug 172, the outlet valve 168, the fourth bore 148, and/or the plunger 156. The third bore 144 is configured to receive another plug 176 and another fastener 178. The plug 176 and the fastener 178 engage with the third internal surface 128. In some embodiments, the fastener 178 may be disconnected from the fluid end 108 to provide access to the plug 176, the third bore 144, or the inlet valve 164. The configuration of other multiple sets of fluid bores 118 (e.g., the second set of fluid bores, the third set of fluid bores, and the like) may be similar to that of the first set of fluid bores 118.

[0024] The cylinder block 106 of the fluid end 108 further includes the multiple inlet passages 114 (e.g., a first inlet passage 114, a second inlet passage 114, a third inlet passage 114, and the like.). Each of the multiple inlet passages 114 may be connected to at least a bore of the multiple sets of fluid bores 118. For example, the first inlet passage 114 may be fluidly coupled to the first bore 136 of the first set of fluid bores 118. Similarly, the other inlet passages (e.g., the second inlet passage 114, the third inlet passage 114, and the like) may be respectively fluidly coupled to first bores of the other sets of fluid bores (e.g., the second set of fluid bores, the third set of fluid bores, and the like).

[0025] In operation of the reciprocating pump 100, as the reciprocating pump 100 is powered by an engine or a motor, the plunger 156 starts to reciprocate within the second bore 140 and thus moves in and out relative to the common volume chamber 152. While the plunger 156 executes a stroke in the second bore 140, as the plunger 156 reciprocates out of the common volume chamber 152 (see direction, F) (see FIG. 4), negative pressure may be generated inside the common volume chamber 152, causing the inlet valve 164 to move to an open position, e.g., the valve member 164b moves upward relative to the valve seat 164a. As a result, fluid (e.g., fracking fluid) flows through the first bore 136 and the inlet valve 164, and is drawn into the common volume chamber 152. As the fluid flows through the inlet valve 164 and moves into the common volume chamber 152, the outlet valve 168 remains in its closed position.

[0026] Fluid continues to be drawn into the common volume chamber 152 through the first bore 136 and the inlet valve 164 until the plunger 156 reaches to an end of its stroke, e.g., away from the common volume chamber 152. At this point, the valve member 164b of the inlet valve 164 moves downward, causing the inlet valve 164 to move to a closed position, e.g., the inlet valve member 164b moves downward relative to the valve seat 164a. As a result, the fluid (e.g., fracking fluid) stops its flows through the first bore 136 and the inlet valve 164, in turn halting further ingress of fluid into the common volume chamber 152.

[0027] As part of a subsequent stroke, as the plunger 156 reverses its reciprocating direction (see direction, R) (see FIG. 4) and moves towards the common volume chamber 152, positive pressure within the common volume chamber 152 is generated, causing the outlet valve 168 to move to an open position. The open position of the outlet valve 168 permits fluid received within the first bore 136 to be pushed out of the common volume chamber 152, through the fourth bore 148, and the outlet valve 168, into the discharge passage 160. As the fluid discharges and flows out through the fourth bore 148 and the outlet valve 168 into the discharge passage 160, the inlet valve 164 remains in its closed position. As the plunger 156 reaches to an end of this subsequent stroke towards the common volume chamber 152, the fluid is pushed out (e.g., completely) and the outlet valve 168 returns to its closed position. The foregoing process may be repeated multiple times during a work cycle for continuous fluid influx and discharge relative to the reciprocating pump 100.

[0028] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, the fluid end 108 further includes a suction manifold 200. The suction manifold 200 may include a linearly extending, hollow cylindrical profile, defining a length, L, and may include openings 202 defined exemplarily along the length, L. The openings 202 may be fluidly coupled with the inlet passages 114 of the fluid end 108 and, in some embodiments, may be disposed transversely or orthogonally to the inlet passages 114. The suction manifold 200 further includes an inner wall 212 and an inlet 204 disposed on a first end 206 of the suction manifold 200 and is configured to receive the fluid flow, e.g., from a reservoir or from a low-pressure line (not shown). The suction manifold 200 defines an end 210 and an opening 208 disposed at the end 210, which may be located opposite to the first end 206.

[0029] Referring now to FIGS. 5, 6, and 7, the reciprocating pump 100 further includes a system 220 for distributing (e.g., evenly distributing) the fluid flow across the multiple inlet passages 114 of the fluid end 108. The system 220 includes an auger 224. The auger 224 is positioned into and/or is received within the suction manifold 200 (also see FIGS. 2 and 3). The auger 224 defines an axis, A, as shown in FIG. 5, a first axial end 228, a second axial end 232, and a helical body 236 extending (e.g., longitudinally extending) between the first axial end 228 and the second axial end 232 and along the axis, A. The helical body 236 of the auger 224 may define an outer diameter, Do, an inner diameter, Di, and a pitch, P. In some embodiments, the helical body 236 may include a tapered cross-section from the outer diameter, Do, to the inner diameter, Di, of the helical blade (see FIGS. 7 and 9). That is, the helical body 236 may include a cross-sectional area defined at the outer diameter, Do, less than a cross-sectional area defined at the inner diameter, Di, of the helical body 236. In some embodiments, said cross-sectional area defined at the outer diameter and said cross-sectional area defined at the inner diameter of the auger 224 remains consistent along or throughout the length of the helical body 236. The helical body 236 may further define a helical face configured to receive the fluid flow from the inlet 204. The auger 224 may further define dimensionally identical profiles (e.g., circular profiles) at each of the first axial end 228 and the second axial end 232. Further, the auger 224 defines a void, V, passing through the helical body 236 to define an inner helical periphery 238 of the helical body 236. The void, V, may be a longitudinal void about which the helical body 236 may be wound around (e.g., spirally would around to define the helical path). In some embodiments, the void, V, defines a constant diameter or cross-section along the entire length of the helical body 236.

[0030] The auger 224 may be placed within the suction manifold 200 in such a way that the first axial end 228 of the auger 224 is positioned to receive the fluid flow received through the inlet 204 of the suction manifold 200. In this regard, the first axial end 228 may be positioned towards the inlet 204, while the second axial end 232 may be positioned towards the opening 208. The auger 224 is further configured to force the fluid to enable the fluid to move along a helical path, H, defined by the helical body 236 to introduce an angular momentum into the fluid flow causing portions of the fluid flow to be pushed into the one or more of the inlet passages 114 as the portions of the fluid flow move along the helical path, H.

[0031] The system 220 further includes an end flange 240 fixedly coupled to the second axial end 232. For instance, the end flange 240 is fixedly coupled to the second axial end 232 proximate the opening 208. The end flange 240 defines a base 244 and a stepped surface 248 extending from the base 244. The stepped surface 248 is configured to be inserted or plugged into the suction manifold 200 through the opening 208 to center the second axial end 232 of the auger 224 relative to the suction manifold 200. The base 244 is configured to rest against the end 210 of the suction manifold 200. In some embodiments, the base 244 and the stepped surface 248 are concentric to each other. In some embodiments, an outer diameter of the base 244 may be equal to an outer diameter of the suction manifold 200. Further, an outer diameter of the stepped surface 248 may be slightly less than the inner diameter of the suction manifold 200, such that the stepped surface 248 snugly fits with the inner wall 212 of the suction manifold 200 through the opening 208. In some embodiments, the base 244 may be connected to the stepped surface 248 by using fasteners (not shown). In some embodiments, the base 244 and the stepped surface 248 are fabricated from a single piece of metal.

[0032] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, the system 220 further includes a plurality of coupler rods 252. In some embodiments, the coupler rods 252 are linear and cylindrical in shape, however, different shapes, cross-sections, profiles, of the coupler rods 252 may be contemplated. The coupler rods 252 may be fixedly connected to the inner helical periphery 238 of the auger 224. For example, the coupler rods 252 are fixedly connected (e.g., by welding) to the inner helical periphery 238 of the auger 224. The coupler rods 252 are further connected to the end flange 240 to fixedly retain the end flange 240 with the helical body 236. In some embodiments, the coupler rods 252 may be connected to a cylindrical hub 254 disposed (e.g., integrally formed) on the end flange 240. For example, the coupler rods 252 may be inserted correspondingly into slots 258 defined on the cylindrical hub 254. In some embodiments, the coupler rods 252 are arranged in a rotational array around the axis, A. Each coupler rod 252 is equidistantly spaced with respect to one another (or to another coupler rod 252) along the rotational array to rigidly support the helical body 236 with the end flange 240. In some embodiments, the coupler rods 252 include three coupler rods 252 separated by an angular offset of 120 degrees, along the rotational array. Use of higher or lesser number of coupler rods 252 may be contemplated.

[0033] The system 220 further includes an end support 260 fixedly coupled to the first axial end 228 of the auger 224. The end support 260 is engageable with the suction manifold 200 to center the first axial end 228 of the auger 224 relative to the suction manifold 200. In some embodiments, the end support 260 is configured to fit with the suction manifold 200 to center the first axial end 228 of the auger 224 relative to the suction manifold 200. The end support 260 includes a hub 264, an outer ring 268 circumventing the hub 264, and abuttable with the inner wall 203 of the suction manifold 200. The end support 260 further includes a plurality of spokes 266 coupling the hub 264 with the outer ring 268. The plurality of coupler rods 252 is fixedly connected to the hub 264. In some embodiments, the coupler rods 252 may be connected to the cylindrical hub 264 disposed (e.g., integrally formed) on the end support 260. For example, the coupler rods 252 may be inserted correspondingly into slots 262 defined on the cylindrical hub 264. In some embodiments, the coupler rods 252 are fixedly connected to the end support 260 so as to be coupled between the end support 260 and the end flange 240 to fixedly retain the end support 260 and the end flange 240 with the helical body 236, e.g., to retain the auger as a single, unitary unit. Further, the end support 260 defines gaps, G, (see FIGS. 3, 5 and 7) to provide passage to the fluid flow across the end support 260. More particularly, the gaps, G, are defined between consecutive spokes 266 (and are defined in the manner of a sector of a circle) to provide passage to the fluid flow across the end support 260 and allow the first axial end 228 to receive the fluid flow from the inlet 204. In some embodiments, an outer diameter of the end support 260 may be equal to the outer diameter of the stepped surface 248 of the end flange 240. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the end support 260 and the end flange 240 may be greater than the outer diameter, Do, of the helical body 236.

[0034] Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, the system 220 further includes a clamp arrangement 270 for the auger 224. The clamp arrangement 270 is configured to clamp the auger 224 with the suction manifold 200. The clamp arrangement 270 is movable between a clamped state and an unclamped state. In the clamped state, the clamp arrangement 270 is configured to engage the end flange 240 with an end 210 of the suction manifold 200 to removably and immovably retain the auger 224 within the suction manifold 200. In the unclamped state, the auger 224 is removable from the suction manifold 200 through the opening 208. The clamp arrangement 270 includes a first clamping part 274 and a second clamping part 278 claspable with the first clamping part 274 to move the clamp arrangement 270 to the clamped state.

[0035] The first clamping part 274 and the second clamping part 278 may be semi-circular in shape and match the cylindrical shape of the end flange 240 (or the base of the end flange) and the suction manifold 200. The first clamping part 274 and the second clamping part 278 are configured to fixedly retain the end flange 240 with the suction manifold 200. The first clamping part 274 and the second clamping part 278 include one or more bores 284 to receive one or more fasteners 286 therein to couple the first clamping part 274 to the second clamping part 278. In some embodiments, the first clamping part 274 may be hinged to the second clamping part 278 from one end and a single fastener 286 may be used to couple the first clamping part 274 to the second clamping part 278.

[0036] During assembly of the clamp arrangement 270 on the end flange 240 and the suction manifold 200, the first clamping part 274 is configured to engage first portions 280 of the end 210 and the end flange 240 with each other. The second clamping part 278 is configured to engage second portions 282 of the end 210 and the end flange 240 with each other when the first clamping part 274 is clasped with the second clamping part 278 to removably and immovably retain the auger 224 within the suction manifold 200. The fasteners 286 are configured to couple and clasp the first clamping part 274 with the second clamping part 278 to engage the end flange 240 with the end 210 of the suction manifold 200 to removably and immovably retain the auger 224 within the suction manifold 200. The first clamping part 274 and the second clamping part 278 positively holds the suction manifold 200 and the end flange 240 in position to form a fluid-tight joint between the suction manifold 200 and the end flange 240. To remove the auger 224 from the suction manifold, the first clamping part 274 is removed from the second clamping part 278 and the end flange 240 is disengaged from the end 210 of the suction manifold 200 to remove the auger 224 from the suction manifold 200.

[0037] In some embodiments, the use of the clamp arrangement 270 may be omitted and the auger 224 may be casted with the suction manifold 200 as a wholly integrated, single structure. In such a case, the end flange 240 may be integrated into the end 210 of the suction manifold 200. Also, in case of such integration, some portions of the end flange 210 (e.g., the stepped surface 248) may be omitted. In some embodiments, the auger 224 may be welded with the suction manifold 200. For example, the helical body 236 of the auger 224 may be welded to the inner wall 212 of the suction manifold 200. In some embodiments, the auger 224 may be casted with the same material as that of the suction manifold 200. In some embodiments, the auger 224 may be casted with material including, but not limited to, polymer, plastic composite, metal and the like.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0038] The operation of the reciprocating pump 100 will now be discussed. During operation of the reciprocating pump 100, the fluid flow, incoming at a relatively high pressure, is received by the end support 260 of the auger from the inlet 204 of the suction manifold. The fluid flow moves through the end support 260 (e.g., through the gaps) and is then forced along the helical path, H, defined by the helical body 236 of the auger 224 to introduce an angular momentum into the fluid flow causing portions of the fluid flow to be pushed into the inlet passages 114 as the portions move along the helical path, H. The helical body 236 of the auger 224 reduces a velocity (e.g., a linear velocity) of the incoming fluid flow into the suction manifold 200 and assists the fluid flow to move along the helical path so that the fluid flow is distributed (e.g., substantially evenly distributed) across the inlet passages 114 of the reciprocating pump 100.

[0039] In one example implementation, it has been observed that a usage of the auger causes up to one fifth portion of the total fluid flow to be pushed into a first inlet passage 114 or into one or more of the initial inlet passages 114 that the fluid flow encounters when moving along the helical path. Similarly, various portions of the fluid flow may be pushed into respective inlet passages 114 as the moving fluid encounters the inlet passages 114 along the helical path, H. This helps in distributing (e.g., evenly distributing) the fluid flow across the multiple inlet passages 114 of the fluid end 108. In some embodiments, a part of the fluid flow is also received into and passed through the void, V. Effectively, void, V, allows a relatively higher volume of fluid flow to enter into the suction manifold 200 as compared to a case where the void, V, is omitted from the auger.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 10, an exemplary method for distributing a fluid flow across multiple inlet passages 114 of a reciprocating pump 100, is discussed. The method is discussed by way of a flowchart 1000 that illustrates exemplary stages (e.g., from 1002 to 1006) associated with the method. The method is also discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 5, 6 and 7. It will be appreciated that the order of steps described in the method is exemplary in nature and that the steps can be performed in a different order than what is set out below, as will be contemplated by a person skilled in the art based on the description of the present disclosure.

[0041] The method begins with positioning the auger 224 into the suction manifold 200 fluidly coupled with the multiple inlet passages 114 of the reciprocating pump 100, at block 1002. To this end, an operator may open or remove an end cap (not shown) which may be assembled at the opening to generally close the opening from external access. Although not limited, the end cap may be shaped similarly to the end flange 240 but may not be connected to any auger. An opening or removal of the end cap may thus reveal an interior volume, S, of the suction manifold devoid of the auger, e.g., a hollow or an empty suction manifold. The operator may then insert and position the auger 224 into the suction manifold 200 from the opening 208. The operator may position the auger 224 within the suction manifold 200 in such a way that the first axial end 228 of the auger 224 is positioned to receive the fluid flow through the inlet 204 of the suction manifold 200 and the second axial end 232 of the auger 224 is positioned towards the opening 208 of the suction manifold 200. The method proceeds to block 1004.

[0042] At block 1004, the method includes fixedly coupling the end flange 240 to the second axial end 232. For example, the operator may place the end flange 240 on the end 210 of the suction manifold 200 in such a way that the stepped surface 248 is inserted into the suction manifold 200 through the opening 208 to center the second axial end 232 of the auger 224 relative to the suction manifold 200. The operator then allows the base 244 to be rested against the end 210 of the suction manifold 200. In some embodiments, the base 244 sits flush with the outer diameter of the suction manifold 200. The method proceeds to block 1006.

[0043] At block 1006, the method includes using the clamp arrangement 270 for the auger 224. For example, the operator may use the first clamping part 274 to engage the first portions 280 of the end 210 and the end flange 240 together. Similarly, the operator may use the second clamping part 278 to engage the second portions 282 of the end 210 and the end flange 240 together. The operator may then fasten the fasteners 286 to couple and clasp the first clamping part 274 with the second clamping part 278 to engage (e.g., fixedly engage) the end flange 240 with the end 210 of the suction manifold 200. The clamp arrangement 270, as discussed above, is movable between the clamped state (e.g., by tightening the bolts) and the unclamped state (e.g., by loosening the bolts), and accordingly allows the auger to be selectively installed and removed from the suction manifold with relative ease. Thus, the method 800 helps in installing the auger 224 within the suction manifold 200 and allows for the distribution of the fluid flow across multiple inlet passages 114 of the reciprocating pump 100. A retention of the auger within the suction manifold by the clamp arrangement may be immovable.

[0044] In addition, the clamp arrangement 270 being easily movable into the unclamped state allows the augers (such as auger 224) having different configurations (e.g., different flight/slope) to be placed within the suction manifold 200. Augers having different configurations may be used for receiving different fluid types (e.g., depending on an amount of proppant and/or additives in the fluid or the density of the fluid). Also, augers with different configurations may be used for receiving different fluid flow pressure and/or different fluid flow volumes. The generally even distribution of the fluid flow across the multiple inlet passages 114, as attained by way of the system, reduces or altogether mitigates untimely wear in the valves. This makes the reciprocating pump's maintenance cycle more predictable and more manageable, while also increasing the overall productivity of the reciprocating pump 100.

[0045] Further, the use of the coupler rods 252 (e.g., three coupler rods 252) helps in overall weight reduction of the auger as compared to a case where a larger single solid rod was needed to perform the function of the coupler rods. The reduced weight of the auger 224 saves material costs and eases out the handling of the auger. In some embodiments, it has been observed that the use of the coupler rods 252 instead of the larger single solid rod reduces the weight of the overall assembly of the auger 224 by up to eighty percent. Further, the space between the coupler rods 252 (e.g., void, V) also helps in increasing a volume of the fluid flow into the suction manifold 200.

[0046] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the method and/or system of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the method and/or system disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims and their equivalent.