SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REINFORCING RECIPROCATING PUMP

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/155,793, filed May 1, 2015, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/095,689, filed Dec. 22, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/029,271, filed Jul. 25, 2014, each of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0002] This disclosure relates to a reciprocating pump assembly, and in particular, a power end housing for a reciprocating pump assembly.

[0003] In oil field operations, reciprocating pumps are used for various purposes. For example, reciprocating pumps are commonly used for operations, such as cementing, acidizing, or fracing a well. Oftentimes, these reciprocating pumps are mounted to a truck, a skid or other type of platform for transport to and from the well sites. In operation, such pumps deliver a fluid or slurry at pressures up to and around 20,000 psi; however, due to such extreme operating conditions, these pumps are susceptible to damage from forces caused by excessive vibrations, bending moments and/or deformation.

[0004] A typical reciprocating pump includes a fluid end and a power end, the power end configured to reciprocatingly move one or more plungers toward and away from a corresponding fluid end pump chamber. Each chamber includes an intake port for receiving fluid, a discharge port for discharging the pressurized fluid, and a one-way flow valve in each port for preventing reverse fluid flow.

[0005] Manufacturing and assembling conventional power end housings is oftentimes difficult and cumbersome due to, for example, the sheer weight of the housing, the need for precise alignment certain components, and the difficultly in accessing certain areas of the housing, such as, for example, accessing and installing the crankshaft bearings within the housing.

[0006] Thus, there is a need for a pump design, and in particular, a power end housing for a reciprocating pump, having a decreased weight, that can be easily assembled while at the same time able to reduce the likelihood of damage due to excessive forces caused by excessive vibrations, bending moments and/or deformation.

[0007] In a first aspect, there is provided a drive system for a fluid end of a reciprocating pump assembly, the drive system including a drive member; a power end housing having a crankshaft rotatably disposed therein; a gearbox secured to the power end housing, the gearbox operatively connecting the drive member to the crankshaft for rotation thereof; and at least one arm member extending between the gearbox and the power end housing, the at least one arm member positioned to resist relative movement between the gearbox and the power end housing.

[0008] In certain embodiments, the at least one arm member includes at least two arm members extending between the gearbox and the power end housing to resist relative movement between the gearbox and the power end housing.

[0009] In other certain embodiments, the at least two arm members are parallel with respect to each other.

[0010] In some embodiments, the at least one arm member includes at least two arm members extending between the gearbox and the power end housing on a same plane.

[0011] In other embodiments, the at least one arm member includes an adjustable length.

[0012] In still other embodiments, the at least one arm member is pivotably secured to the power end housing.

[0013] In another embodiment, the at least one arm member is pivotably secured to the gearbox.

[0014] In still another embodiment, the power end housing is formed having a front wall, a rear wall, a top wall and a bottom wall, the at least one arm member coupled to the power end housing adjacent the front wall.

[0015] In yet another embodiment, the at least one arm member is pivotably secured to the power end housing adjacent the top wall.

[0016] In a second aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a drive system for a fluid end of a reciprocating pump assembly, the method including providing a drive member; providing a power end housing having a crankshaft rotatably disposed therein; securing a gearbox to the power end housing so as to operatively connect the drive member to the crankshaft for rotation thereof; and securing at least one arm member between the power end housing and the gearbox to resist relative movement between the gearbox and the power end housing.

[0017] In some embodiments, securing the at last one arm member between the power end housing and the gearbox includes securing at least two arm members between the gearbox and the power end housing.

[0018] In other embodiments, securing the at least one arm member includes securing at least two arm members between the gearbox and the power end housing in a parallel relationship.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the method includes securing the at least two arm members between the gearbox and the power end housing in a same plane.

[0020] In another embodiment, the method includes adjusting a length of the at least one arm member to extend between the gearbox and the power end housing.

[0021] In yet another embodiment, the method includes pivotably securing an end of the at least one arm member to the power end housing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method includes pivotably securing an end of the at least one arm member to the gearbox.

[0023] In other embodiments, the method includes securing the at least one arm member adjacent to a front wall of the power end housing.

[0024] In yet other embodiments, the method includes securing the at least one arm member adjacent to a top wall of the power end housing.

[0025] In still other embodiments, the method includes securing an end of the at least one arm member to a skid that supports the power end housing.

[0026] In a third aspect, there is provided a method of attaching an arm member to a drive system for a fluid end of a reciprocating pump assembly, the method including forming a counterbore in a power end housing, the counterbore having a first section with a diameter and a second section with a diameter different from the diameter of the first section; providing a bolt, the bolt including a first section having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the counterbore first section, and a second threaded section having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the counterbore second section, the second section of the bolt threadably engaging the counterbore second section; and the diameter of the first section of the bolt having a larger diameter than the diameter of the second section of the bolt such that, when the first section of the bolt engages the counterbore first section, the first section of the bolt substantially absorbs shear forces during operation of the reciprocating pump assembly.

[0027] In some embodiments, forming the counterbore first section includes forming a diameter of the counterbore first section to provide a clearance of about 0.002 inches between the counterbore and the bolt.

[0028] Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are part of this disclosure and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of the inventions disclosed.

[0077] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a reciprocating pump assembly 10, such as, for example, a reciprocating plunger pump. Reciprocating pumps can be used, for example, as frac pumps, mud pumps, cement pumps, and the like. Terminology may be used in this disclosure that is commonly used in a given pump system; however, unless otherwise stated, this disclosure also includes comparable components of other pump systems (e.g., crossheads and pistons). Referring to FIG. 1, the pump assembly 10 includes a power end housing 12 coupled to a fluid end housing 14 via a plurality of stay rods 20. The power end housing 12 includes a crankshaft 16 depicted, for example, in FIG. 40), which is mechanically connected to a motor (not shown), which in operation, rotates the crankshaft 16 in order to drive the reciprocating pump assembly 10. In particular, rotation of the crankshaft 16 causes a plunger assembly 18 to reciprocate toward and away from the fluid end housing 14, which causes fluid to be pumped from one or more fluid cylinders (not illustrated) in the fluid end housing 14 through a discharge port 24. In one embodiment, the crankshaft 16 is cammed so that fluid is pumped from a plurality of cylinders in the fluid end housing 14 to minimize the primary, secondary and tertiary forces associated with reciprocating pumps 10. According to embodiments disclosed herein, the power end housing 14 employs a frame assembly 40 (FIGS. 2A and 2B), which provides for increased structural rigidity (i.e., increased resistance to deformation and/or deflection) and ease of assembly.

[0078] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the frame assembly 40 includes a pair of end segments 42 and 44, a plurality of middle segments 46, a top skin assembly 48 and a bottom skin assembly 50 forming a forward or front wall 54, a rear or back wall 56, and a pair of sidewalls 58 and 60. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, for example, the frame assembly 40 includes four equally spaced apart middle segments 46 disposed between the end segments 42 and 44 to accommodate, as discussed in further detail below, five plunger assemblies 18 thereby forming a quintuplex pump assembly. However, it should be understood the frame assembly 40 is otherwise configurable. For example, the frame assembly 40 is configurable to accommodate a duplex pump assembly, which can include at least one middle segment 46 disposed between the end segments 42 and 44. Likewise, the frame assembly 40 is configurable to accommodate a triplex pump assembly, which includes two spaced apart middle segments 46 disposed between the end segments 42 and 44. According to some embodiments, each of the segments 42, 44 and 46 are laterally spaced apart approximately twelve inches, although depending on the size of the pump assembly 10, the lateral spacing may be a longer or shorter distance. In yet other embodiments, the lateral spacing is not equal for the middle segments 46. In other embodiments, the frame assembly 40 is configured to include at least one segment 42 or 44. In still other embodiments, the frame assembly 40 includes at least one segment 42 or 44 and does not include the middle segments 46.

[0079] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the frame assembly 40 includes a plurality of feet 52, which, as discussed in greater detail below, are configured to support the power end housing 12 on a support surface, such as, for example, a skid, a truck bed, trailer or other type of platform. In FIG. 2B, for example, each end segment 42 and 44 includes a foot 52 near or adjacent to the forward wall 54 and a foot 52 near or adjacent the rear wall 56. Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2B, each middle segment 46 includes a foot 52 extending near or adjacent to the rear wall 56. It should be understood, however, that the number, size and position of each foot 52 is variable depending on the desired configuration. For example, in some embodiments, an end segment 42 or 44 includes a single foot 52 extending entirely or at least partially between the front and rear walls 54 and 56. In some embodiments, one or more additional feet 52 are otherwise positionable between the feet 52 that are located near or adjacent to the front and rear walls 54 and 56. Thus, for example, in one embodiment, an end segment 42 or 44 includes three, four or even more spaced apart feet 52 for supporting the power end housing 12. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2B, the feet 52 are integrally formed on segments 42, 44 and 46; however, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the feet 52 are separately attachable to the segments 42, 44 and/or 46.

[0080] With continued reference to FIG. 2B, each middle segment 46 includes a single foot 52 generally near or adjacent to the rear wall 56. In alternate embodiments, each middle segment 46 includes additional feet 52. For example, in some embodiments, a middle segment 46 includes a foot 52 (not illustrated) at or near the front wall 54 or at any other position between the front and rear wall 54 or 56 in addition to the foot 52 at or near the rear wall 56. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2B, for example, a total of eight feet 52 are used to support the power end housing 14 on a support surface (not illustrated). As will be discussed in greater detail below, the provision of additional feet 52 on the frame assembly 40, and in particular, feet 52 on middle segments 46, provide an increased stiffness resulting in less deflection and/or deformation of the frame assembly 40 during operation the reciprocating pump 10 thereby increasing the operating life of certain components, such as, for example, the bearings utilized to support the crankshaft 16.

[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 3-5, the middle segments 46 of FIGS. 2A and 2B are illustrated. In FIG. 3, for example, each middle segment 46 includes upper and lower grooves 80 and 82 and a bearing support surface 84. Upper and lower grooves 80 and 82 are positioned and otherwise sized so as to receive corresponding upper and lower crosshead support members 86 and 88 (FIG. 4) that, as explained in greater detail below, provide support for crosshead support tubes 100 (FIG. 9) and a means for more easily aligning and otherwise spacing apart the segments 42, 44 and 46. Furthermore, upper and lower support members 86 and 88 provide structural support to the segments 42, 44 and 46, and thus, the frame assembly 40. For example, referring specifically to FIGS. 3-6, each middle segment 46 is positioned such that the upper and lower grooves 80 and 82 are aligned to receive respective portions of the upper and lower crosshead support members 86 and 88. When secured together, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 provide additional rigidity to and maintain alignment of the segments 42, 44 and 46 and, thus, the frame assembly 40.

[0082] Referring specifically to FIG. 6, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are rigid rod-like members and are sized to extend through each of the middle segments 46 and attached to the end segments 42 and 44 (FIG. 9). In FIG. 6, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are formed having a top surface 90, a bottom surface 92 and end surfaces 94 and 96. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the top surface 90 includes a plurality of spaced apart recessed surfaces 98, each configured to receive and otherwise support at least a portion of a crosshead tube 100 (FIGS. 2A, 2B and 9) therein. Thus, for example, when the upper and lower crosshead support members 86 and 88 are positioned within the upper and lower grooves 80 and 82, respectively, the crosshead tubes 100 fit within and are supported by the recessed surfaces 98 in the upper and lower support members 86 and 88.

[0083] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the recessed surfaces 98 are arcuately shaped and sized to receive and otherwise conform to the outer surface of the crosshead tubes 100. It should be understood, however, that the recessed surfaces 98 can be otherwise configured. For example, in some embodiments, the recessed surfaces 98 include non-arcuately formed notches or recessed areas. In other embodiments, spaced apart extension members (not illustrated) extend outward from the top surface 90 of the support members 86 and 88, the extension members being spaced apart a sufficient distance to receive and otherwise support the crosshead tube 100 therebetween to prevent movement of the crosshead tube 100 relative to the crosshead support member 86, 88.

[0084] With continued referenced to FIG. 6, each crosshead support member 86, 88 includes a support segment 102 extending between each of the recessed surfaces 98. The support segments 102 are configured to facilitate alignment and attachment of the support members 86, 88 to the segments 42, 44 and 46. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, for example, the bottom surface 92 of the support segments 102 includes an alignment notch or recessed portion 104 positioned to receive and otherwise engage the middle segments 46. Referring specifically to FIGS. 4 and 5, for example, the notches 104 on the upper and lower support members 86 and 88 are formed along the bottom surfaces 92 such that upon attachment of the support members 86 and 88 to the middle segments 46, such notches 104 are aligned with and are configured to conform and/or otherwise interlock with the segments 46.

[0085] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the frame assembly 40 includes two upper crosshead support members 86 and two lower crosshead support members 88. For example, in FIGS. 3 and 4, each middle segment 46 includes a pair of parallel upper grooves 80 and a pair of parallel and corresponding lower grooves 82 to accommodate a front or first pair of crosshead tube support members 106 and a rear or second pair of crosshead support members 108. In other embodiments, additional pairs of crosshead support members 86 and 88 are utilized, such as, for example, a third pair (not illustrated) of crosshead support members 86 and 88 disposed between the first and second crosshead support members 106 and 108. Furthermore, in alternate embodiments, a single pair of crosshead support member 86 and 88 is utilized. Notwithstanding the number and/or position of the crosshead support members 86 and 88, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 assist in alignment of segments 42, 44 and 46, provide additional support and structural rigidity to the frame assembly 40, both during assembly and operation of the reciprocating pump assembly 10, and provide a means to support the crosshead tubes 100 within the frame assembly 40.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 7, the end segment 44 is illustrated. Similar to the middle segments 46, the end segment 44 includes a bearing support surface 84 and upper and lower grooves 80 and 82 configured to receive and otherwise mate with notches 104 adjacent the end surfaces 96 on the crosshead support members 86 and 88 (FIG. 6). While only end segment 44 is illustrated, it should be understood that end segment 42 contains a similar configuration for attachment to crosshead support members 86 and 88 at the opposite end surfaces 94.

[0087] Referring specifically to FIGS. 3-5 and 7, the bearing support surfaces 84 form arcuately extending openings 110 extending through each of the end and middle segments 42, 44 and 46. As discussed in further detail below, the bearing support surfaces 84 are sized to receive a bearing assembly 290 (See FIGS. 21-38 and 40-46), which facilitate the rotational movement of the crankshaft 16 (FIG. 40). As will be discussed in greater detail below, the openings 110 formed by the bearing support surfaces 84 vary in size to facilitate the assembly of bearing assemblies 290 on respective segments 42, 44 and/or 46.

[0088] In FIGS. 3, 7 and 8, the rear walls 56 of the end and middle segments 42, 44 and 46 include upper and lower grooves 140 and 142. When the middle segments 46 are positioned and aligned between the end segments 42 and 44, as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 8, an upper rod member 144 and a lower rod member 146 are disposed therein to provide additional support and rigidity to frame assembly 40. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, two rod members 144 and 146 are illustrated. However, in other embodiments, a greater or fewer number of rod members 144 and 146 can be utilized. In yet other embodiments, the rod members 144 and 146 extend only a partial distance between the end segments 42 and 44. In other embodiments, the rod members 144 and 146 are configured in a position other than horizontally. For example, in some embodiments, the rod members 144 and/or 146 are angularly disposed along the rear wall 56 of the frame assembly 40. According to some embodiments, the rod members 144 and 146 each include spaced apart alignment notches configured to correspond to and otherwise engage with the rear wall 56 of the frame assembly 40. Such notches provide for ease of assembly and enable self-alignment of the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 during assembly.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 9, once the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are secured to the frame assembly 40, and in particular, to the segments 42, 44 and 46, the crosshead tubes 100 are secured between crosshead support members 86 and 88 and are positioned generally adjacent to the front wall 54 of the frame assembly 40. Once the crosshead tubes 100 are secured thereto, the top skin assembly 48, as best illustrated in FIG. 10A, is secured to the frame assembly 40. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10A, the top skin assembly 48 includes a front plate 160 and a rear curvilinear plate 162, which together are sized to cover and otherwise enclose the top portion of the power end housing 12 between the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 by extending from the front wall 54 to the rear wall 56 of the frame assembly 40. However, in alternate embodiments, the top skin assembly 48 is a single unitary plate extending between or at least partially between the front and rear walls 54 and 56. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 10A, the top skin assembly 48 consists of a plurality of front and rear plates 160 and 162 that are mounted between each of the segments 42, 44 and 46 to enclose the top portion of the power end housing 12. In other embodiments, the top skin assembly 48, is formed of a single unitary sheet sized to overlay the upper or top portion of the frame assembly 40, which extends between the front wall 54, the rear wall 56 and the sidewalls 58 and 60.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 2B and FIGS. 10B and 10C, the bottom skin assembly 50 is illustrated. The bottom skin assembly 50 includes a plurality of front plates 164 that are sized to fit between each of the segments 42, 44 and 46 and extending rearward from the front wall 54. The bottom skin assembly 50 further includes a drain plate 166 that extends between the end segments 42 and 44, as best illustrated in FIG. 2B. The drain plate 166 further includes a plurality of drain openings 168 aligned generally beneath the middle segments 46. In other embodiments, the bottom skin assembly 50 is formed of a single unitary sheet sized to overlay the bottom portion of the frame assembly 40, which extends between the front wall 54, the rear wall 56, and the sidewalls 58 and 60.

[0091] FIG. 10D illustrates upper and lower nose plates 170 and 172, which are secured to the frame assembly 40 to form at least a portion of the front wall 54, as best illustrated in FIG. 2A. In particular, an upper nose plate 170 is secured to the frame assembly 40, between segments 42, 44 and 46, above each crosshead tube 100. Likewise, a lower nose plate 172 is secured to the frame assembly 40, between segments 42, 44 and 46, below each crosshead tube 100.

[0092] Referring now to FIG. 11, a method of assembling the frame assembly 40 is illustrated. The method begins at block 200 by providing at least one middle segment 46. For example, when assembling a quintuplex pump, four middle segments 46 are provided. Likewise, when assembling a triplex pump, two middle segments 46 are provided. Continuing to block 204, the middle segments 46 are positioned such that the upper and lower grooves 80 and 82 on each segment 46 are aligned. Once aligned, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are aligned with and inserted within the upper and lower grooves 80 and 82 of each middle segment 46, as indicated at block 204. Once positioned within the grooves 80 and 82, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are secured to the middle segments 46, as indicated at block 206. According to some embodiments, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are tack welded to the middle segments 46; however, any other suitable means of attachment can be used. At block 208, the end segments 42 and 44 are secured to the crosshead support members 80 and 82 using similar methods of attachment.

[0093] The method continues at block 210, where at least one rear support rod 144 or 146 is positioned along the rear wall 56 of the frame assembly. In particular, a rear support rod 144 is inserted within a groove 140 disposed in each end segment 42 and 44 and each middle segment 46. In some embodiments, both an upper and lower rear support rod 144 and 146 are inserted into respective upper and lower grooves 140 and 142 on each segment 42, 44 and 46 for providing additional stability to the rear portion of the frame assembly 40. According to some embodiments, the upper and lower support rods 144 and 146 are tack welded to the middle sections 46. At block 212, the method optionally includes securing a plurality of gussets 22 (FIG. 2B) between each of the end segments 42, 44 and middle segments 46, which provide additional stability to the frame assembly 40. At blocks 214 and 216, the top skin assembly 48 and the bottom skin assembly 50 are secured to the frame assembly 40 by welding or other means of attachment. Continuing on to block 218, the feet 52 on each of the segments 42, 44 and 46 are machined such that the ends of each of the feet 52 are aligned in the same plane, so that, as discussed in greater detail below, the frame assembly 40 is securable to a skid or other support surface. While FIG. 11 illustrates one method for assembling the frame assembly 40, it should be understood that the method can occur in other orders. For example, the crosshead support members 86 and 88 are securable to the end segments 42 and 44 prior to securing the cross support members 86 and 88 to the middle segments 46. In addition, the rear support members 140 and 142 are attachable to the segments 42, 44 and 46 prior to attaching the crosshead support members 86 and 88 to the segments 42, 44 and 46. Similarly, the bearing support surfaces 84 can be formed in the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 while secured to the skid.

[0094] Referring now to FIGS. 12-15, an additional embodiment of the frame assembly 40 of the power end housing 12 is illustrated. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12-15, the end segments 42 and 44 and middle segments 46 each include gussets or extensions 650 extending from a sidewall of and formed integral with each segment 42, 44 and 46 so as to provide additional strength and stability to the frame assembly 40. For example, referring specifically to FIGS. 14 and 15, each segment 44 and 46 includes a plurality of extensions 650 formed integral with and extending outward from a sidewall and in spaced apart relationship around the bearing support surfaces 84. As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, each extension 650 on a middle segment 46 is positioned to align with and contact a corresponding extension 650 on an adjacently positioned end segment 42 or 44 or middle segment 46, as applicable. Additionally or alternatively, the front wall 54 of each segment 42, 44 and/or 46 is formed of an increased width such that the use and installation of separately attachable upper and lower nose plates 170 and 172 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) is not necessary. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, the front wall 54 is formed integral with and extending from a sidewall of the segment 42, 44 and/or 46 such that when segments 42, 44 and/or 46 are adjacently positioned to form the frame assembly 40, the edges 50a and 50b of adjacently positioned frame members 42, 44 and/or 46 align and contact each other for subsequent welding and/or other forms of attachment. Similarly, each segment 42, 44 and/or 46 can optionally be formed with rear walls 56 integrally formed with an increased width extending from the sidewall such that the use and installation of separately attachable members disposed between each of the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 is avoided.

[0095] Additionally and/or alternatively, each of the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 can be formed such that, in addition to the front and rear walls 54 and 56 being formed integral with the segments 42, 44 and/or 46, the top and bottom skins 48 and 50 can be formed integral thereto, as best illustrated in FIG. 17. Thus, when segments 42, 44 and/or 46 are adjacently positioned to form the frame assembly 40, the edges 48a and 48b and 50a and 50b of the top and bottom skins 48 and 50, respectively, of adjacently positioned frame members 42, 44 and/or 46 contact each other for subsequent welding, thereby avoiding the need for separately attachable skins 48 and 50 to be welded between the segments 42, 44 and/or 46.

[0096] According to embodiments disclosed herein, one or more of the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 are forged, including extensions 650; however, other methods of manufacture are available (i.e., casting or otherwise). When segments 42, 44 and/or 46 are forged, welding time is reduced and less machining is required. As such, this results in ease of manufacture, lower costs, and higher strength. According to some embodiments, the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 are hot forged. According to some embodiments, the strength of the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 is increased by about 10-15 percent from a machined segment. According to embodiments disclosed herein, the end segments 42 and 44 may be forged and the middle segments may be machined. In other embodiments, only one end segment 42 or 44 may be forged and all or a some of the middle plate segments 46 may be forged and the remaining segments 42, 44 and/or 46 machined or otherwise formed.

[0097] Referring now to FIGS. 18A-20, an additional embodiment of portions of the frame assembly 40 of the power end housing 12 is illustrated. In FIGS. 18A, 18B and 19, a plurality of extensions 650 are disposed generally adjacent to the bearing support surfaces 84 on each of the end segments 42 and 44 and the middle plate segment 46. As illustrated, five extensions 650 are spaced apart from each other and generally around the bearing support surface 84; however, it should be understood that a greater or fewer number of extensions 650 may be utilized around the bearing support surfaces 84. Additionally and as illustrated in FIGS. 18A, 18B and 19, each plate segment 42, 44 and 46 include upper and lower extensions 652 extending outwardly therefrom and disposed generally between the front wall 54 and the bearing support surfaces 84. In addition to providing additional rigidity to the frame assembly 40, the extensions 652 are used to support the crosshead tubes 100 (FIG. 9). When the extensions 652 are utilized, as illustrated in FIGS. 18A-20, crosshead tube support members 86 and 88 (FIG. 4) are no longer necessary since the extensions 652 act to align and sufficiently space apart the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 while at the same time providing support to the crosshead tubes 100. In particular, each extension 652 includes a curvilinear portion 654 sized to receive the cylindrical crosshead tubes 100. As such, the amount of welds can be substantially reduced (i.e., no need to weld the crosshead tube support members 86 and 88 to the frame assembly 40) because the only welding required is at the point of contact between adjacently positioned extension members 652. In FIGS. 18A-20, in addition to extensions 650 and 652 being used to align and secure the segments 42, 44 and/or 46 together, the front wall 54 of each segment 42, 44 and/or 46 are sized and position to function in this fashion.

[0098] A method of assembling the frame assembly 40 illustrated in FIGS. 18A-20 is hereinafter described. During assembly, at least one middle segment 46 is provided. For example, when assembling a quintuplex pump, four middle segments 46 are provided Likewise, when assembling a triplex pump, two middle segments 46 are provided. The end segments 42 and 44 and the desired number of middle segments 46 are aligned such that the ends of each extension 650, and edges of the front walls 54, rear walls 56 and top and bottom walls 58 and 60, as applicable, are aligned and otherwise adjacent to each other for attachment by welding or otherwise. In the embodiment illustrated herein, the end of each extension 650 includes a planar surface having chamfered corners to facilitate welding attachment. By including extensions 650 that are integral with segments 42, 44 and/or 46, only a single weld is necessary to connect the extensions 650 together, and thus adjacent segments 42, 44 and/or 46, rather than employing a single gusset 22 that must be welded to both adjacent segments 42, 44 and/or 46.

[0099] FIGS. 21-46 illustrate an embodiment of a graduated frame assembly in which the frame assembly 40 includes bearing support surfaces 84 of varying diameters to facilitate ease of installation of bearing assemblies 290 (FIG. 28), as more fully described below. Referring specifically to FIG. 21, which is a cross-section of the frame assembly 40 taken along the line 21-21 of FIG. 29, each bearing support surface 84 is configured to receive and otherwise support the bearing assembly 290 (FIG. 28) to rotatably support the crankshaft 16 thereon. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the diameter of each of the bearing support surfaces 84 increases from the innermost middle segments 46 outward to the end segments 42 and 44. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 29, the frame assembly 40 includes four middle segments 300, 302, 304 and 306 and end segments 308 and 310. Each segment 300-310 includes a respective bearing support surface 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 and 322 for supporting a respective bearing assembly 290 (FIG. 28). As illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 29, the innermost bearing support surfaces 314 and 316 on segments 302 and 304 are formed having inner diameters smaller than the inner diameters of adjacently positioned bearing support surfaces 312 and 318 on segments 300 and 306, respectively, as represented by an amount of twice the distance T1 (FIG. 21). Similarly, the bearing support surfaces 312 and 318 on segments 300 and 306, respectively, are formed having diameters smaller than the inner diameters of adjacently positioned bearing support surfaces 320 and 322 on end segments 308 and 310, respectively, as represented, for example, by an amount of twice the distance of T2 (FIG. 21). According to some embodiments, the diameter of bearing support surfaces 314 and 316 is about 25 inches, the diameter of bearing support surfaces 312 and 318 is about 25.25 inches, and the diameter of bearing support surfaces 320 and 322 is about 25.5 inches. It should be understood, however, that the diameters can vary depending on the size of the frame assembly 40. For example, in some embodiments, the diameters can range between 2 inches to 35 inches or even larger amounts. Regardless of the size of the frame assembly 40, and as explained in greater detail below, this configuration of varying or “graduated” diameters of the bearing support surfaces 84 enables installation of the bearing assemblies 290 to be unimpeded and simplified.

[0100] With continued reference to FIGS. 21 and 29-34, installation of the outer bearing races 324 and 326 onto the bearing support surfaces 314 and 316 is described. As illustrated, the inner diameters of bearing support surfaces 312, 318, 320 and 322 are larger than the outer diameter of the outer bearing races 324 and 326. For example, in one embodiment, the outer diameter of the bearing races 324 and 326 is about 25 inches. Thus, as the outer bearing races 324 and 326 are moved in the direction of arrows 328 and 330 and through the openings 110 formed by bearing support surfaces 312, 318, 320 and 322, the relative size differences of about 0.5 inches between the outer bearing races 324 and 326 and the diameter of bearing support surfaces 320 and 322, and the relative size differences of about 0.25 inches between the outer bearing races 324 and 326 and the diameter of bearing support surfaces 312 and 318, enable unimpeded movement of the bearing races 324 and 326 therethrough. In another embodiment, the inner diameters of at least one bearing support surface 312, 318, 320 and 322 is larger than the outer diameter of at least one of the outer bearing races 324 and 326. Thus, when installing the bearing races 324 and 326 on bearing support surfaces 314 and 316, the bearing races 324 and 326 are inserted into the frame assembly 40 in the direction of arrows 328 and 330, respectively, toward middle segments 302 and 304 and through bearing support surfaces 312, 318, 320 and 322 with adequate clearance to minimize and/or substantially reduce the likelihood of the outer bearing races 324 and/or 326 contacting the bearing support surfaces 312, 318, 320 and 322 thereby “trapping” a bearing race 324 and/or 326 in the wrong position and/or otherwise damaging the bearing races 324 or 326 and/or the bearing support surfaces 312, 318, 320 and 322. In some embodiments, the outer bearing races 324 and 326 are substantially cooled to cause the races 324 and 326 to shrink, thereby increasing the gaps between the races 324 and 326 and the support surfaces 312, 318, 320 and 322. Once positioned on the bearing support surfaces 314 and 316, the temperature of the races 324 and 326 increases allowing the bearing races 324 and 326 to thermally expand to create an interference fit with the bearing support surfaces 314 and 316.

[0101] Once the outer bearing races 324 and 326 are installed on the bearing support surfaces 314 and 316 (FIGS. 22 and 34), the outer bearing races 332 and 334 are then inserted into the frame assembly 40 in the direction of arrows 328 and 330, as best illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 35-38. Similar to the outer bearing races 324 and 326, the outer diameter of bearing races 332 and 334 is smaller than inner diameter of bearing support surfaces 320 and 322 to facilitate unimpeded movement of the bearing races 332 and 334 for positioning onto support surfaces 312 and 318, respectively. According to some embodiments, the outer diameter of the bearing races 332 and 334 is about 0.25 inches smaller than the inner diameters of the bearing support surfaces 320 and 322. It should be understood, however, that the outer diameter of the bearing races 332 and 334 may vary. For example, in one embodiment, the outer diameter of the bearing races 332 and 334 may range between 30/1000 of an inch to 300/1000 of an inch smaller than the inner diameters of the bearing support surfaces 320 and 322. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of at least one of the bearing races 332 and 334 is equal to or smaller than 0.30 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.15 inches, or 0.10 inches smaller than the inner diameters of the bearing support surfaces 320 and 322. In some embodiments, similar variations in diameters can be seen between outer diameters of the bearing races 324 and 326 compared with the outer diameters of bearing races 332 and 334.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 23, after the bearing races 324, 326, 332 and 334 are installed on the frame assembly 40. As discussed in greater detail below, the bearing races 324, 326, 332 and 334 are used to support the crankshaft 16 on the frame assembly 40, as illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 28 and 41.

[0103] Referring now to FIGS. 24-26, assembly of the crankshaft 16 and inner bearing races 412 and 414 thereon is illustrated. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 24, for example, the crankshaft 16 includes a plurality of journals 400, 402, 404, 406, 408 and 410 that are configured to receive a plurality of bearing races 412 and 414 thereon. As illustrated in FIG. 24, journals 404 and 406 are formed having a diameter that is larger than the diameters of journals 402 and 408. Likewise, journals 402 and 408 are formed having a diameter that is larger than the diameter of journals 400 and 410. According to one exemplary embodiment, the diameters of journals 402 and 408 are between about 0.030 and 0.062 inches smaller than the diameter of the journals 404 and 406, although it should be understood that the relative lengths may be either larger or smaller. In addition and according to another exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the journals 400 and 410 are between about 0.062 and 0.124 inches smaller than the diameter of the journals 404 and 406, although it should be understood that the relative lengths may be either larger or smaller. Regardless of the diameter size of journals 400, 402, 404, 406, 408 and 410, the varying sized diameters provide ease of installation and/or removal of crankshaft bearings from the crankshaft 16.

[0104] For example, when assembling the bearing assemblies 412-418 onto the crankshaft 16, the inner bearing races 412 are first installed followed by the inner bearing races 414. As illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25, for example, an inner diameter of the inner bearing races 412 is larger than the outer diameters of journal surfaces 400, 402, 408 and 410, which facilitates unimpeded installation of the bearing races 412 onto the crankshaft 16, and in particular, journals 404 and 406. In particular, the inner bearing races 412 are positioned adjacent to each end of the crankshaft 16 and moved in the direction of arrows 328 and 330 toward journals 404 and 406. Once the innermost bearing assemblies 412 are secured onto the surfaces 404 and 406, a pair of inner bearing races 414 are then positioned onto journals 402 and 408, as illustrated in FIG. 26. The inner diameter of the inner bearing races 414 is larger than the diameter of journals 400 and 410 to facilitate unimpeded movement in the direction of arrows 328 and 330 across the journals 400 and 410. Once the inner bearing races 412 and 414 are secured onto the crankshaft 16, the outer bearing components, which include bearing races 416 and 418, are then installed onto and around the journals 400 and 410, as best illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0105] According to some embodiments disclosed herein, in addition to sizing the components to have different non-interfering diameters, the crankshaft 16 is optionally cooled to a predetermined temperature in order to effectuate thermal cooling thereby causing the crankshaft to contract in size. When cooled and in the contracted state, the inner bearing races 412, 414, 416 and 418 are positionable on the crankshaft 16. As the temperature of the crankshaft 16 increases, the bearing races 412, 414, 416 and 418 are secured to the crankshaft 16 by an interference fit. According to other embodiments disclosed herein, inner bearing races 412, 414, 416 and 418 can be heated (e.g., such as by induction heating) to a predetermined temperature thereby causing the inner bearing races 412, 414, 416 and 418 to increase in size. Inner bearings races 412, 414, 416 and 418 can then be positioned on crankshaft 16 and secured thereto by an interference fit.

[0106] After the bearing races 412, 414, 416 and 418 are installed onto the crankshaft 16 (FIGS. 26 and 40), the crankshaft 16 is secured inside the frame assembly 40. Referring specifically to FIGS. 27, 28, 40 and 41, for example, the crankshaft 16 is moved in the direction of arrow 328 such that the inner bearing races 412 are aligned with and otherwise engage outer bearing races 324 and 326, the inner bearing races 414 are aligned with and otherwise engage the outer bearing races 332 and 334, and the bearing race 418 is aligned with the opening 110 on the end segment 44. According to some embodiments, the crankshaft 16 can be installed on the opposite side of the frame assembly 40 such that when moved in the direction opposite of arrow 328, the crankshaft 16 is inserted within the frame assembly 40.

[0107] Referring now to FIGS. 39-43, a crankshaft support device 700 is employed for supporting the crankshaft 16 during installation and removal thereof. In use, the crankshaft support device 700 is configured to support the crankshaft 16 in a generally horizontal position as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 40, so as to facilitate alignment of the crankshaft 16 with the bearing support surfaces 84. As explained above, once aligned with the bearing support surfaces 84, the crankshaft 16 is movable along a horizontal axis (lifted and supported via a crane or otherwise) in the direction of arrow 328 for insertion within the openings 110 formed by the bearing support surfaces 84. Once oriented in the desired position, the support device 700 is detached from the crankshaft 16.

[0108] Referring specifically to FIG. 39, the support device 700 includes a frame assembly 702 having a first segment 704 oriented to extend substantially along the length of the crankshaft 16 and a second portion 706 extending from the first portion 704. The frame assembly further includes a base section 708, which as described in further detail below, is used to secure the crankshaft 16 to the support device 700. As illustrated, the second portion 706 extends a predetermined distance from the first portion 704 so as to enable the crankshaft 16 to be spaced apart from the first portion 704 such that when inserting the crankshaft inside the bearing support surfaces 84, the first portion 704 does not contact any portion of the power end housing 12.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 39 and 43, the base section 708 includes a cavity 710 sized to correspond to and receive an end of the crankshaft 16 therein. As illustrated in FIGS. 43-44, the crankshaft end includes threaded openings corresponding to openings 716 in the base section 708. When securing the support device 700 to the crankshaft 16, the openings 716 are aligned with corresponding openings in the end of the crankshaft 16 and a pair of threaded screws 718 are inserted therethrough to securely fasten the crankshaft 16 to the support device 700.

[0110] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 39-43, the first section 704 includes a pair of eyelets 720 for receiving and engaging with a hanging structure, such as a chain 722, that extends from a crane or other lifting structure (not illustrated). The eyelets 720 are positioned on the first section 704 and the length of the chains 722 are sized so that the crankshaft 16, when secured to the support device 700, remains generally horizontal and/or otherwise parallel with an axis extending through the center of the openings 110 formed by the bearing support surfaces 84. According to some embodiments, the eyelets 720 have lifting shackles (not illustrated) inserted therein to secure the support device 700 to the chains. One lifting shackle attaches to a single length chain and the second shackle attaches to an adjustable chain to provide tiling freedom during installation. For example, the eyelet 720 that is farthest from second portion 706 can be engaged with an adjustable hanging structure, such as chain 722, such that crankshaft 16 can be balanced substantially horizontally (e.g., to facilitate alignment of the crankshaft 16 with the bearing support surfaces 84) by adjusting the adjustable hanging structure.

[0111] It should be understood that support structure 700 may be otherwise configured. For example, the first section 704 may extend a distance longer or shorter than the overall length of the crankshaft 16. Likewise, the length of the second section 706 may otherwise vary (i.e., may be longer or shorter than that depicted in FIGS. 39-43) and may extend in any direction other than perpendicularly from the first section 704. According to some embodiments, the support structure 700 is formed of metal, wherein the first section 704, the second section 706 and the base section are welded together. It should be understood, however, that the support structure 700 may be otherwise formed from a non-metallic material and be, for example, a single contiguous structure formed without welding.

[0112] According to some embodiments and as best illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 43-47, once the crankshaft 16 is installed in the power end 12, a pair of carrier members 420 and 422, which support bearing races 290 thereon, are installed onto the end segments 310 and 308, respectively, for supporting the crankshaft 16 for rotatable movement thereof.

[0113] Referring now to FIGS. 48-50, a gearbox 600 is secured to the end plate 44 of the frame assembly 40 via a pair arm members 602 to resist movement of the gearbox 600 relative to the frame assembly 40. In FIGS. 48-50, for example, two arm members 602 are illustrated; however, in other embodiments, a greater or fewer number of arm members 602 may be employed. For example, according to some embodiments, three or more arm members 602 are secured between the end plate 44 and the gearbox 600 to resist relative movement between the end plate 44 and the gearbox 600. In operation, the position of the arm members 602 are optimized in order to resist rotational and axial movement to prevent and/or otherwise eliminate damage to the frame 40 and/or gearbox 600, including the outer housing and thus, the components therein.

[0114] In FIGS. 48-50, the first and second ends 604 and 606 of the arm members 602 are secured to the end plate of gearbox 600 (e.g., at gusset 620) and end plate 44 of frame assembly 40 (e.g., at gusset 620), respectively, such that the arm members 602 extend in a parallel configuration and in the same plane (FIG. 50). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 48, the arm members 602 generally extend and are otherwise disposed in a vertical plane that is near and/or otherwise adjacent to the front wall 54 of the frame assembly 40. However, in other embodiments, the arm members 602 may be otherwise configured to accommodate a different size and/or center of gravity of the gearbox 600, which varies depending on the size of the reciprocating pump assembly 10. For example, the arm members 602 may be secured in a non-parallel fashion and/or extend in different planes. Furthermore, the arm members 602, instead of being positioned and secured near or adjacent to the front wall 54 of the frame assembly 40, may be secured at other positions, such as, for example, at any position between the front wall 54 and the rear wall 56 of the frame assembly 40. Likewise, the arm members 602 are secured at any position along the gearbox 600 to resist rotational and/or axial movement of the gearbox 600 relative to the frame assembly 40.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 51-54, the arm member 602 includes an elongate body 608 and ball joints 610 at the first and second ends 604 and 606 to facilitate pivotable movement, as discussed further below, during installation of and attachment of the arm members 602 to the gearbox 600 and the frame assembly 40. Furthermore, in some embodiments, each arm member 602 is adjustable in length to accommodate different sized configurations of the reciprocating pump assembly 10. Referring to FIG. 53, for example, each ball joint 610 is movable relative to the elongate body 608 via a pair of threaded adjustment bolts 612, such that, when it is desired to extend the length of the arm member 602, the elongate body 608 is rotated relative to the bolts 612 on each end 604 and 606. Thus, for example, in the event it is desired to extend the length of an arm member 602, the body member 608 is rotated in the direction of arrow 614 (FIG. 51), which in turn causes rotational movement of the body member 608 with respect to the bolts 612 (FIG. 53) to extend the length of the arm member 602. Similarly, in the event it is desired to shorten the length of an arm member 602, the body member is rotated in the direction opposite of arrow 614 to cause movement of the body member 608 with respect to the bolts 612 to reduce the length of the arm member 602. Once the arm member 602 is at the desired length, a pair of nuts 616 are tightened so that they abut against the body 608 to prevent relative movement of the adjustment bolts 612 relative to the elongate body 608.

[0116] While embodiments of the arm member 602 illustrated having adjustable bolts 612 on both sides of the elongate body 608, it should be understood that the arm member 602 may be otherwise configured. For example, in some embodiments, the arm member 602 is of a fixed length without the ability to be adjusted in length. In other embodiments, the arm member 602 includes only one end 604 or 606 that is adjustable in length. Thus, for example, the arm member 602 includes only a single threaded bolt 612 being adjustable to lengthen or shorten the arm member 602. In yet other embodiments, the arm member 602 includes telescoping portions (not illustrated) that slide and otherwise move in a telescoping relationship to adjust the length thereof. A cotter pin or any other locking device is usable to secure the telescoping segments to prevent separation and/or relative movement between the members during operation of the pump assembly 10.

[0117] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 51-54, the arm members 602 are secured to the pump assembly 10 and the gearbox 600 via a shoulder bolt 618 disposed in each end 604 and 606. The shoulder bolts 618 secure the ends of the support members 602 to respective gussets 620 on the power end housing 12 and the gearbox 600 (FIG. 49).

[0118] Referring specifically to FIG. 54, each shoulder bolt 618 is sized to fit within a corresponding counterbore 622 formed in each gusset 620. As illustrated in FIG. 54, each counterbore includes a first section 622a having a first diameter and a second section 622b having a second diameter. In FIG. 54, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter so as to, as discussed in further detail below, receive corresponding portions of the shoulder bolt 618 therein to reduce failure of the shoulder bolt 618, which oftentimes occurs in response to shear stresses generated during operation of the reciprocating pump assembly 10.

[0119] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 54, the shoulder bolt 618 includes a first portion 618a having a first diameter and a second portion 618b having a second diameter, the diameters of the first and second portions 618a and 618b corresponding to the diameters of portions 622a and 622b of the counterbore 622. The shoulder bolt 618 is secured within the counterbore 622 via a threaded connection between portions 618b and 622b of the shoulder bolt 618 and the counterbore 622, respectively. According to some embodiments, the first portion 622a of the counterbore 622 is precision machined to have a clearance between the first portion 618a of the shoulder bolt 618 and the first portion 622a of the counterbore 622 of about 0.002 inches. Accordingly, when a shear force F acts on the shoulder bolt 618, a significant portion of the shear is absorbed or otherwise countered by the first portion 618a of the shoulder bolt 618 rather than the threaded second portion 618b of the shoulder bolt 618. It should be understood that the clearance between the first portion 618a of the shoulder bolt 618 and the first portion 622a of the counterbore 622 may vary (i.e., the clearance therebetween may be greater or less than 0.002 inches). By having a larger diameter first section 618a larger than the second section 618b, the shear stresses acting on the threaded section 618b are reduced thereby reducing the likelihood of failure of the connection between the arm member 602 and the frame assembly 40 and the gearbox 600.

[0120] During assembly of the reciprocating pump assembly 10, the gearbox 600 is secured to the power end housing 12. Once secured, at least one arm member 602 is provided for attachment between the end segment 44 and the gearbox 600 to resist relative movement, including relative axial and rotational movement, between the gearbox 600 and the power end housing 12. According to some embodiments, the length of the arm member 602 is first adjusted to the necessary length so as to connect to both the power end housing 12 and the gearbox 600. Once positioned to the desired length, the ends 604 and 606 of the arm member 602 are aligned with the counterbores 622 on the respective power end housing 12 and the gearbox 600. The shoulder bolts 618 are then inserted through ball joints 610 on respective ends 604 and 606 and then into the counterbores 622. Each shoulder bolt 618 is tightened within the counterbores 622 to prevent separation of the shoulder bolts 618 from the counterbores 622.

[0121] Alternatively, either end 604 or 606 is first secured to either the power end housing 12 or the gearbox 600 as previously described. Once secured thereto, the unsecured or free end 604 or 606 is pivoted via the ball joint 610 so that the ball joint 610 on the unsecured end of the arm member 602 is otherwise aligned with the counterbore 622 on the power end housing 12 or the gearbox 600, whichever is unattached to the arm member 602. Once aligned, a shoulder bolt 618 is used to secure the second end 604 or 606 to the corresponding counterbore 622. If, however, prior to securing the second end 604 or 604, the ball joint 610 cannot be aligned with the counterbore 622, the length of the arm member 602 is adjusted, as previously discussed, so that the ball joint 610 aligns with the counterbore 622 to enable the shoulder bolt 618 to secure the arm member 602 thereto.

[0122] It should be understood that while the arm members 602 are secured between the gearbox 600 and the power end housing 12, the arm members 602 may be otherwise utilized. For example, referring to FIG. 55, one arm member 602 is secured between the power end housing 12 and a second arm 602 is secured between the gearbox 600 and either a skid or a trailer 660. Alternatively, the arm members 602 may both extend from the gearbox 600 and the power end housing 12 directly to the skid and/or trailer 660.

[0123] Referring now to FIGS. 56 and 57, the power end housing 12 is supported on a skid 500. Referring specifically to FIG. 56, the skid 500 includes a base member 502, the base member having a pair of side segments 504 and 506, transverse segments 508, 510, and 512 extending between and connecting the side segments 504 and 506, and feet 514 for supporting the skid 500 on a support surface. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 56, the skid 500 includes a plurality of pads 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, 528 and 530 that correspond to feet 52 on the frame assembly 40. For example, referring specifically to FIG. 55, pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 correspond to and are positioned to align with the feet 52 on the middle segments 46. Similarly, pads 516, 518, 528 and 530 correspond to and are positioned to align with feet 52 on the end segments 42 and 44. The skid 500 further includes a pair of pads 532 and 534 to support at least a portion of the fluid end housing 14 (FIG. 1). Referring specifically to FIG. 57, the side segments 504, 506 and transverse segment 508 each include a plurality of gussets 540 secured thereto to increase the stiffness of the skid 500 to resist bending and torsional loading. In FIG. 57, each side segment 504 and 506 include two spaced apart gussets 540 and the transverse segment 508 includes five spaced apart gussets 540, disposed between the pads 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, and 530. It should be understood, however, that a greater or fewer number of gussets 540 may be utilized on the skid 500 to increase the stiffness thereof.

[0124] According to some embodiments, the pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 have a thickness that is different from the thickness of pads 516, 518, 528 and 530. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 56, the pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 have a thickness that is less than the thickness of pads 516, 518, 528 and 530. The varying thickness provides a gap between the feet 52 and the pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 to enable the frame assembly 40 to be shimmed in order to reduce “rocking”, vibration, deformation and other unwanted movement.

[0125] During manufacture of the frame assembly 40, according to one embodiment, the feet 52 on segments 42, 44 and 46 are machined so as to lie on the same plane such that when frame assembly is supported on the pads 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, 528 and 530, feet 52 on end segments 42 and 44 are in contact with pads 516, 518, 528 and 530 and feet 52 on middle segments 46 are aligned with but otherwise spaced apart from pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 to provide a gap to receive a shim or other spacer element. During assembly of the power end housing 12 to the skid 500, the desired shim or other spacer elements can be inserted in the gaps formed between the feet 52 and the pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 to reduce and or otherwise eliminate rocking or other unwanted movement of the power end housing 12 relative to the skid 500. In other embodiments, the feet 52 on middle segments 46 are formed to extend onto a different plane than the plane containing the feet 52 on the end segments 42 and 44 and the pads 520, 522, 524 and 526 have a lesser thickness than the pads 516, 518, 528 and 530. In other embodiments, each pad 516-528 is the same thickness and shims are used to fill any gap between the foot 52 and the pads 516-528.

[0126] According to other embodiments, the pads have a differing thickness to accommodate bends in the skid 500. For example, in the event the transverse segment 508 is bent (i.e. the section 508 of the segment near the pad 530 is lower than the section of the segment 508 near pad 518), the pads 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, and/or 530 are machined, as needed, such that a top surface of the pads 518′, 520′, 522′, 524, 526′, and/or 530′ rest in the same plane. Accordingly, if the section 508 of the segment near the pad 530 is lower than the section of the segment 508 near pads 518, the thickness of pad 530 will be greater than the thickness of the pad 518, because a greater portion of the pad 518 must be removed in order for surfaces 518′ and 530′ to lie in the same plane.

[0127] Referring now to FIGS. 58-60, an alternate skid configuration 800 is illustrated. In FIGS. 58 and 59, the skid 800 includes transverse support members 808, 810 and 812 extending between and connecting the side segments 804 and 806. The transverse support members 810 and 812 are formed having a hollow interior and provide additional rigidity and support for the areas around the pads 816, 828, 832 and 834. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 58 and 59, for example, the transverse segment 808 is shaped as an I-beam and includes a plurality of vertical gussets 840 disposed on each side of a web member 841; however, it should be understood that the transverse segment may be shapes other than an I-beam shape. The skid 800 further includes a plurality of vertical gussets 840 disposed on the side segments 804 and 806. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 59, the side segments 804 and 806 are formed having a “C” shaped channel in which the gussets 840 are disposed therein; however, it should be understood that the side segments 804 and 806 can be formed other than “C” shaped. Furthermore, the side segments 804 and 806 each include a plurality angularly disposed gussets 842 disposed within the “C” shaped channel. Gussets 840 and 842 provide additional support and rigidity to the skid 800.

[0128] Referring specifically to FIGS. 58 and 59, the transverse segment 508 includes a plurality of gussets 840 disposed around pads 818, 820, 822, 824, 826 and 830 and on both sides of the web 841 to provide additional support when the power end housing 12 is secured to the skid 800. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 59, the gussets 840 are positioned so as to form a channel 844 to provide access to mounting bolts (not illustrated) to enable tighten mounting bolts to secure the feet 52 to the skid 800. According to some embodiments, each side segment 804 and 806 optionally includes a reinforcing plate 862 secured thereto to provide additional rigidity to the skid 800. In FIG. 58, for example, the reinforcing plate 862 extends substantially between the transverse support members 808 and 810. Although the reinforcing plates may extend for lesser distances and/or be formed of multiple sections.

[0129] It should be understood that skids 500 and 800 may be otherwise configured. For example, a greater or fewer number of transverse segments may be utilized. Likewise, additional side segments may be positioned parallel to side segments 504, 506 and 804, 806. In other embodiments, additional segments may be angularly disposed between the side segments, the transverse segments or any combinations thereof.

[0130] Referring specifically to FIGS. 58-60, the skid 800 further includes a plurality mounting openings 846 disposed on the side segments 804 and 806, the openings 846 spaced apart and positioned to enable the skid 800 to be secured to a trailer 848 (FIG. 60). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 60, the trailer 848 includes a chassis 850 having longitudinal frame segments 852 and 854 and a transverse segment 856 extending between the longitudinal frame segments 852 and 854. The longitudinal segments 852 and 854 include slots positioned to align with the slots 846 on the skid 800 to enable the skid 800 to be secured to the chassis 850 via a plurality of bolts or any other suitable attachment means. As illustrated in FIGS. 58 and 59, the slots 846 are elongated so as to accommodate differing sized chassis 850 (i.e., the longitudinal frame segments 852 and 854 being spaced farther apart or closer together). Referring to FIG. 60, a bracket 860 is optionally attachable to and cantilevers from the chassis 850 so as to provide additional support to the skid 800 when the power end housing 12 is secured thereto.

[0131] Referring now to FIGS. 61 and 62, the bottom skin 164 is welded to the middle plate segment 46. In FIGS. 61 and 62, the bottom skin 164 is formed having a generally “J” shaped groove 920 on each edge to be joined with the corresponding segment 46 (or end plate segment 42 or 44, as applicable) at its weld joint edge near the outer surface. The segment 46 has a generally reverse “J” shaped groove 905 and a backing step 910. The backing step 910 supports the root surface 919 of the bottom skin 164 on a backing surface 915. The backing surface 915 transitions to the “J” groove 905 with a mating surface 913, which abuts the mating end 917 of the bottom skin 164. The mating surface 913 prevents lateral movement of the bottom skin 164.

[0132] In one embodiment, mating surface 913 has a depth about 0.06 inches and the backing surface 915 is extended for about 0.13 inches from the mating surface 913. The mating end 917 is about 0.06 inches thick and can thus evenly join the “J” groove 920 with the “J” groove 905, as further described below.

[0133] The “J” groove 920 of the bottom skin 164 is joined with the “J” groove 905 of the segment 46 to form a “U” groove for receiving weld metal to enable formation of a complete penetration weld, without requiring a separate a backing plate. For example, a molten weld metal 930 is provided to the “U” groove formed from the two “J” grooves 905 and 920. In one embodiment, the weld metal 930 may be the same or materially similar to the base metal of the segment 46 and the bottom skin 164.

[0134] Welding fusion occurs between the weld metal 930, the bottom skin 164 and the segment 46 and forms a fused region 935 though the thickness of the segment 46, thus unifying the three pieces (i.e., the segment 46, the weld material 930, and the bottom skin 164) into one. For example, the fused region may have a thickness of about 0.06″ to 0.13″, depending on welding power and material. The solidified weld metal 930 may not necessarily be planed as illustrated but a proximate plane surface can be achieved with proper control of the amount of the weld metal 930. Various welding methods may be used, such as flux-cored arc welding, gas metal arc welding, submerged arc welding, or other appropriate method. In some embodiments, the segment 46, the weld metal 930, and the bottom skin 164 may be submerged in a solution for welding.

[0135] It should be understood that the above-mentioned welding process can be used to secure both the top and bottom skin assemblies 162 and 164 to the end and middle plate segments 42, 44 and/or 46.

[0136] The various embodiments and aspects described herein provide multiple advantages such as, for example, providing a power end housing frame assembly 40 having components that can self-align, enable bearing assemblies to be inserted with minimal risk that the bearing assemblies will be trapped on the bearing support surfaces, can be more easily assembled, require less welding, can be manufactured at a reduced weight, and have increased strength thereby operating with less deflection and/or deformation to increase the operating life and integrity of the frame assembly 40 while at the same time reducing manufacturing costs.

[0137] In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as “left” and right”, “front” and “rear”, “above” and “below” and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0138] In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its “open” sense, that is, in the sense of “including”, and thus not limited to its “closed” sense, that is the sense of “consisting only of”. A corresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words “comprise”, “comprised” and “comprises” where they appear.

[0139] In addition, the foregoing describes only some embodiments of the invention(s), and alterations, modifications, additions and/or changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments, the embodiments being illustrative and not restrictive.

[0140] Furthermore, invention(s) have been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments and it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the invention(s). Also, the various embodiments described above may be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, e.g., aspects of one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment to realize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.