U.S. patent application number 14/880870 was filed with the patent office on 2016-02-04 for packing nut lock and method of use.
This patent application is currently assigned to S.P.M. FLOW CONTROL, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc.. Invention is credited to Mark C. Dille, Wesley D. Freed.
Application Number | 20160032958 14/880870 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45063410 |
Filed Date | 2016-02-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160032958 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dille; Mark C. ; et
al. |
February 4, 2016 |
PACKING NUT LOCK AND METHOD OF USE
Abstract
An apparatus for preventing a threaded nut from unscrewing from
a threaded bore of a device. The threaded nut has a circular
periphery containing a plurality of apertures. The apparatus has a
body with a first pin configured to insert into one of the
apertures of the threaded nut, and a retainer that releasably holds
the first pin within the aperture.
Inventors: |
Dille; Mark C.; (Houston,
TX) ; Freed; Wesley D.; (Fort Worth, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc. |
Fort Worth |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
S.P.M. FLOW CONTROL, INC.
Fort Worth
TX
|
Family ID: |
45063410 |
Appl. No.: |
14/880870 |
Filed: |
October 12, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13152076 |
Jun 2, 2011 |
9157468 |
|
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14880870 |
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61351537 |
Jun 4, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
417/313 ;
29/525.02; 411/167 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16B 39/103 20130101;
Y10T 29/49947 20150115; F16B 39/10 20130101; F15B 15/26
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F16B 39/10 20060101
F16B039/10; F15B 15/26 20060101 F15B015/26 |
Claims
1. A locking apparatus for preventing a nut from disengaging from a
bore of a device, the locking apparatus comprising: a body having a
top surface, an opposed bottom surface and an aperture extending at
least partially between the top and bottom surfaces; a non-movable
pin extending from the bottom surface, the non-movable pin
insertable into a first aperture of a nut; a retractable pin
movable along a central axis of the aperture between an engaged
position in which the retractable pin extends at least partially
from the bottom surface, for positioning the retractable pin into a
second aperture of a nut, and a retracted position, for removing
the retractable pin from a second aperture of a nut to facilitate
removal of the body; and a shank extending from the top surface of
the body.
2. The locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the central axis is in
a same plane as an axis of the non-movable pin.
3. The locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the central axis
intersects an axis of the non-movable pin.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a resilient member
to bias the retractable pin toward the engaged position.
5. The locking apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a resilient
member disposed within the shank, the resilient member biasing the
retractable pin toward the engaged position.
6. The locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body is
arcuate.
7. The locking apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a planar
surface on an outer end of the shank, opposite the body, the planar
surface adapted to transfer a rotational force to the nut.
8. The locking apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a handle
extending from the retractable pin to retract the retractable
pin.
9. A method of manufacturing a locking apparatus for preventing a
nut from disengaging from a bore of a device, the method
comprising: providing a body having a top surface, an opposed
bottom surface and an aperture extending at least partially between
the top and bottom surfaces; securing a fixed pin to the body such
that the fixed pin extends in fixed relation from a bottom surface
of the body and configured to be insertable into a first aperture
of a nut; positioning a retractable pin within the aperture such
that the retractable pin is movable along a central axis of the
aperture between an engaged position, for positioning the
retractable pin into a second aperture of a nut, and a retracted
position, for removing the retractable pin from a second aperture
of a nut to facilitate removal of the body; and securing a shank to
a top surface of the body opposite the bottom surface.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising providing a body
having an aperture such that the central axis of the aperture is in
a same plane as an axis of the fixed pin.
11. The method of claim 9, further comprising providing a body
having an aperture such that the central axis of the aperture
intersects an axis of the fixed pin.
12. The method of claim 9 further comprising providing a resilient
member to bias the retractable pin toward the engaged position.
13. The method of claim 9, further comprising positioning a
resilient member inside the shank, the resilient member biasing the
retractable pin toward the engaged position.
14. The method of claim 9, wherein securing a fixed pin to a body
further comprises securing the fixed pin to an arcuate body.
15. The method of claim 9, further comprising forming a planar
surface on an outer end of the shank, opposite the body, the planar
surface configured to transfer a rotational force to the nut.
16. The method of claim 9, further comprising securing a handle to
the retractable pin to retract the retractable pin.
17. A reciprocating pump assembly, the assembly comprising: a
reciprocating pump; a threaded member in engagement with a threaded
bore on the reciprocating pump; a lock for resisting movement of
the threaded member relative to the reciprocating pump, the lock
comprising: a body having a top surface, an opposed bottom surface
and an aperture extending at least partially between the top and
bottom surfaces; a first pin non-rotatably attached to and
extending from the bottom surface of the body for engagement with
the threaded member; a second pin at least partially disposed
within the aperture and movable relative to the body between an
engaged position, where at least a portion of the second pin is
configured to engage the threaded member to secure the body to the
threaded member, and a retracted position, to facilitate separation
of the body from the threaded member; and a shank extending from
the top surface.
18. The reciprocating pump assembly of claim 17, further comprising
a resilient member to bias the second pin toward the engaged
position.
19. The reciprocating pump assembly of claim 17, further comprising
a resilient member disposed within the shank, the resilient member
biasing the second pin toward the engaged position.
20. The reciprocating pump assembly of claim 17, further comprising
a handle extending from the second pin to retract the second
pin.
21. The reciprocating pump assembly of claim 17, wherein the
threaded member comprises at least one aperture to receive at least
one of the first or second pin therein.
22. A nut lock comprising: a main body having a top surface, an
opposed bottom surface, and an aperture extending at least
partially through the main body; a shank extending from a top
surface of the main body; a non-movable member extending from the
bottom surface of the main body and configured to engage a nut; and
a movable member movable between an engaged position, wherein the
movable member extends from the main body and is configured to
engage a nut such that rotation of a nut is prevented, and a
disengaged position, wherein the movable member is at least
partially retracted with respect to the main body and is configured
to be disengaged from a nut.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/152,076, filed Jun. 2, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,157,468,
entitled "Packing Nut Lock and Method of Use", which claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/351,537 filed on
Jun. 4, 2010, entitled "Packing Nut Lock and Method of Use," the
disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference
in their entireties.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates in general to reciprocating pumps,
and in particular, to a packing nut lock for a reciprocating
pump.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] In oil field operations, reciprocating pumps are often used
for various purposes. Some reciprocating pumps, generally known as
"service pumps," are typically used for operations such as
cementing, acidizing, or fracing a well. Typically, these service
pumps run for relatively short periods of time, but they operate on
a frequent basis. Often they are mounted to a truck or a skid for
transport to various well sites. A pump might operate several times
a week. In many applications, several pumps are connected in
parallel to a single flow line.
[0004] High pressure pumps are widely used in the petroleum
industry for a variety of field operations relating to oil and gas
wells. Such pumps deliver a fluid or slurry, which may carry solid
particles (e.g., a sand proppant), at pressures up to 20,000 psi. A
common type is a positive displacement pump having one or more
plungers reciprocally movable in a corresponding pump chamber. Each
chamber has an intake port for receiving fluid, a discharge port
for exhaust, and a one-way flow valve in each port for preventing
reverse flow. These valves require frequent maintenance.
[0005] With the many different ports and chambers in a high
pressure pump, it is advantageous to ensure that threaded
assemblies are securely threaded into the corresponding bores of
the pump assembly. Unfortunately, many of these threaded assemblies
are prone to inadvertently loosen. The pump experiences substantial
vibration during operation at high power settings such that the
threaded assemblies may overcome their initially applied torque and
begin to "back out", or rotate in a loosening direction. With
respect to many of the threaded assemblies, should the assemblies
continue to loosen, the closure, and in some instances, a quantity
of high pressure fluid may be ejected from the pump housing and
potentially cause damage or injury. Consequently, safety
regulations demand that operators respond to any loosening of
threaded assemblies by stopping the pump. That degrades efficiency
and can necessitate the expense of a back-up pump for continuing a
pumping operation while the primary pump is shut down.
SUMMARY
[0006] In a first aspect, there is provided a locking apparatus for
preventing a nut from disengaging from a bore of a device. The
locking apparatus includes a body having a top surface, an opposed
bottom surface and an aperture extending at least partially between
the top and bottom surfaces. The locking apparatus also includes
non-movable pin extending from the bottom surface, the non-movable
pin insertable into a first aperture of a nut, and a retractable
pin movable along a central axis of the aperture between an engaged
position in which the retractable pin extends at least partially
from the bottom surface, for positioning the retractable pin into a
second aperture of a nut, and a retracted position, for removing
the retractable pin from a second aperture of a nut to facilitate
removal of the body. In addition, the apparatus includes a shank
extending from the top surface of the body.
[0007] In certain embodiments, the central axis is in a same plane
as an axis of the non-movable pin.
[0008] In other certain embodiments, the central axis intersects an
axis of the non-movable pin.
[0009] In yet another embodiment, the apparatus also includes a
resilient member to bias the retractable pin toward the engaged
position.
[0010] In still another embodiment, the locking apparatus further
includes a resilient member disposed within the shank, the
resilient member biasing the retractable pin toward the engaged
position.
[0011] In yet another embodiment, the body is arcuate.
[0012] In other certain embodiments, the locking apparatus further
includes a planar surface on an outer end of the shank, opposite
the body, the planar surface adapted to transfer a rotational force
to the nut.
[0013] In certain embodiments, the locking apparatus further
includes a handle extending from the retractable pin to retract the
retractable pin.
[0014] In a second aspect, there is provided a method of
manufacturing a locking apparatus for preventing a nut from
disengaging from a bore of a device. The method includes providing
a body having a top surface, an opposed bottom surface and an
aperture extending at least partially between the top and bottom
surfaces. Additionally, the method includes securing a fixed pin to
the body such that the fixed pin extends in fixed relation from a
bottom surface of the body and is configured to be insertable into
a first aperture of a nut, and positioning a retractable pin within
the aperture such that the retractable pin is movable along a
central axis of the aperture between an engaged position, for
positioning the retractable pin into a second aperture of a nut,
and a retracted position, for removing the retractable pin from a
second aperture of a nut to facilitate removal of the body. The
method further includes securing a shank to a top surface of the
body opposite the bottom surface.
[0015] In certain embodiments, the method includes providing a body
having an aperture such that the central axis of the aperture is in
a same plane as an axis of the fixed pin.
[0016] In other certain embodiments, the method includes providing
a body having an aperture such that the central axis of the
aperture intersects an axis of the fixed pin.
[0017] In yet another embodiment, the method further includes
providing a resilient member to bias the retractable pin toward the
engaged position.
[0018] In still another embodiment, the method includes positioning
a resilient member inside the shank, the resilient member biasing
the retractable pin toward the engaged position.
[0019] In other certain embodiments, the method includes securing
the fixed pin to an arcuate body.
[0020] In certain embodiments, the method includes forming a planar
surface on an outer end of the shank, opposite the body, the planar
surface configured to transfer a rotational force to the nut.
[0021] In other certain embodiments, the method includes securing a
handle to the retractable pin to retract the retractable pin.
[0022] In a third aspect, there is provided a reciprocating pump
assembly including a reciprocating pump, a threaded member in
engagement with a threaded bore on the reciprocating pump, and a
lock for resisting movement of the threaded member relative to the
reciprocating pump. The lock includes a body having a top surface,
an opposed bottom surface and an aperture extending at least
partially between the top and bottom surfaces and a first pin
non-rotatably attached to and extending from the bottom surface of
the body for engagement with the threaded member. The lock further
includes a second pin at least partially disposed within the
aperture and movable relative to the body between an engaged
position, where at least a portion of the second pin is configured
to engage the threaded member to secure the body to the threaded
member, and a retracted position, to facilitate separation of the
body from the threaded member. The lock also includes a shank
extending from the top surface.
[0023] In certain embodiments, the assembly includes a resilient
member to bias the second pin toward the engaged position.
[0024] In other certain embodiments, the assembly further includes
a resilient member disposed within the shank, the resilient member
biasing the second pin toward the engaged position.
[0025] In yet another embodiment, the assembly further includes a
handle extending from the second pin to retract the second pin.
[0026] In still another embodiment, the threaded member includes at
least one aperture to receive at least one of the first or second
pin therein.
[0027] In a fourth aspect there is provided a nut lock having a
main body having a top surface, an opposed bottom surface, and an
aperture extending at least partially through the main body and a
shank extending from a top surface of the main body. The apparatus
further includes a non-movable member extending from the bottom
surface of the main body and configured to engage a nut and a
movable member movable between an engaged position, wherein the
movable member extends from the main body and is configured to
engage a nut such that rotation of a nut is prevented, and a
disengaged position, wherein the movable member is at least
partially retracted with respect to the main body and is configured
to be disengaged from a nut.
[0028] Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent
from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings, which are a part of this disclosure
and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of any
disclosures disclosed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0029] The accompanying drawings facilitate an understating of the
various embodiments.
[0030] FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a reciprocating pump
assembly;
[0031] FIG. 2 is a top plan schematic view of the reciprocating
pump assembly of FIG. 1;
[0032] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the pump assembly shown in
FIG. 1;
[0033] FIG. 4 is a front plan view of a packing nut lock in
accordance with the present disclosure;
[0034] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the packing nut lock of FIG.
4;
[0035] FIG. 6 is a spring pin assembly in accordance with the
present disclosure;
[0036] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a portion of a reciprocating
pump assembly in accordance with the present disclosure, with a
packing nut lock installed in a disengaged position;
[0037] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a portion of a reciprocating
pump assembly in accordance with the present disclosure, with a
packing nut lock installed in an engaged position;
[0038] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a portion of a reciprocating
pump assembly in accordance with the present disclosure, with a
packing nut lock installed in an engaged position;
[0039] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a
reciprocating pump assembly in accordance with the present
disclosure, with a packing nut lock installed and in an engaged
position, and in contact with a stay rod;
[0040] FIG. 11 is a front plan view of a packing nut lock in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0041] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the packing nut lock of
FIG. 11; and
[0042] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the packing nut lock in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure,
and taken along the line A-A of FIG. 11.
[0043] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a spring pin assembly in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0044] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a packing nut lock and tool
in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0045] FIG. 16 is an additional perspective view of the packing nut
lock and tool of FIG. 15, connected to a packing nut; and
[0046] FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the packing nut lock and tool
taken along the line B-B of FIG. 16.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, a reciprocating pump assembly or
pump 12 includes a crankshaft housing 13 that comprises the outer
surface of the reciprocating pump 12. A plurality of stay rods 15
attach to a side of the crankshaft housing 13 and extend to a fluid
cylinder housing 17. Each cylinder typically includes a fluid inlet
19 and a fluid outlet 21. As best shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, an
access bore cover 22 connects to an end of the cylinder housing 17,
opposite the plurality of stay rods 15. The pump 12 can easily be
mounted to a trailer that can be towed between operational sites,
or to a skid for use in offshore operations. Accordingly, a pump
assembly may include the pump 12 mounted directly to the ground or
a support structure, a skid, a trailer, etc.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, the plurality of stay rods 15 are
segmented into three portions, each portion having multiple stay
rods 15, and each portion comprising a plunger throw 23. The
reciprocating pump 12 (as shown in FIG. 2) has three plunger throws
23, a configuration which is commonly known as a triplex pump, but
the stay rod can also be segmented for five plunger throws, a
configuration which is commonly known as a quintuplex pump. The
present description is directed to a triplex pump, but as will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the features and
aspects described are easily applicable for a quintuplex pump or
other types of pumps. Each plunger throw 23 houses a plunger or
pony rod 33 (FIG. 3) that extends to the cylinder housing 17. As
shown in FIG. 2, each of the plunger throws 23 extend in the same
longitudinal direction as each other from the crankshaft housing
13.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 3, a portion of the reciprocating pump 12
that is housed within the crankshaft housing 13 is shown. The
crankshaft housing 13 houses a crankshaft 25, which is typically
mechanically connected to a motor (not shown). The motor rotates
the crankshaft 25 in order to drive the reciprocating pump 12. In
one embodiment, the crankshaft 25 is cammed so that fluid is pumped
from the cylinder housing 17 at alternating times. As will be
readily apparent by those skilled in the art, alternating the
cycles of pumping fluid from the cylinder housing 17 helps minimize
the primary, secondary, and tertiary (et al.) forces associated
with the reciprocating pump 12.
[0050] In one embodiment, a gear 24 is mechanically connected to
the crankshaft 25 and is rotated by the motor through a gear 26. A
connector rod 27 connects to a crosshead 29 through a crosshead pin
31, which holds the connector rod 27 laterally relative to the
crosshead 29. The connector rod 27 pivots about the crosshead pin
31 as the crankshaft 25 rotates with the other end of the connector
rod 27. The pony rod 33 extends from the crosshead 29 in a
longitudinally opposite direction from the connector rod 27. The
connector rod 27 and the crosshead 29 convert rotational movement
of the crankshaft 25 into longitudinal movement of the pony rod
33.
[0051] A plunger 35 is connected to the pony rod 33 for pumping the
fluid which passes through the cylinder housing 17 during operation
of the pump 12. A packing 36 surrounds the plunger 35. A packing
nut 38 is threaded into the cylinder housing 17, and acts to
maintain the packing 36 in the proper position within the packing
bore 37. A number of holes or apertures 40 (FIGS. 7, 8, and 10)
extend along the outer diameter of the rim of the packing nut 38.
The holes 40 are for engagement by a spanner to tighten and loosen
the packing nut 38. When properly positioned, the packing 36 and
the packing nut 38 maintain the necessary pressure between the
plunger 35 and the packing 36, and prevent the packing bore 37 from
leaking.
[0052] The cylinder housing 17 connects to the ends of the stay
rods 15, extending away from the crankshaft housing 13 (FIG. 1).
The cylinder housing 17 includes a plurality of interior or
cylinder chambers 39, which is where the plungers 35 compress the
fluid being pumped by the reciprocating pump 12. The cylinder
housing 17 also typically includes an inlet valve 41 and an outlet
valve 43. The valves 41, 43 are usually spring-loaded valves and
are actuated by a predetermined differential pressure. The inlet
valve 41 actuates to control fluid flow through the fluid inlet 19
into the cylinder chamber 39, and the outlet valve 43 actuates to
control fluid flow through the fluid outlet 21 from the cylinder
chamber 39. Other valve arrangements and configurations of the
fluid end of equivalent functionality are envisaged.
[0053] The plunger 35 reciprocates, or moves longitudinally toward
and away from the cylinder housing 17 as the crankshaft 25 rotates.
As the plunger 35 moves longitudinally away from the cylinder
chamber 39, the pressure of fluid inside the chamber 39 decreases,
creating a differential pressure across the inlet valve 41, which
actuates the valve 41 and allows the fluid to enter the cylinder
chamber 39 from the fluid inlet 19. The fluid being pumped enters
the cylinder chamber 39 as the plunger 35 continues to move
longitudinally away from the cylinder housing 17 until the pressure
difference between the fluid inside the cylinder chamber 39 and the
fluid in the fluid inlet 19 is small enough for the inlet valve 41
to actuate its closed position. On the return stroke as the plunger
35 begins to move longitudinally towards the cylinder housing 17,
the pressure on the fluid inside of the cylinder chamber 39 begins
to increase. Fluid pressure inside the cylinder chamber 39
continues to increase as the plunger 35 approaches the cylinder
housing 17 until the differential across the outlet valve 43 is
large enough to actuate the outlet valve 43 and allow the fluid to
exit the cylinder housing 17 through the fluid outlet 21. In one
embodiment, fluid is only pumped across one side of the plunger 35;
therefore, the reciprocating pump 12 is a single-acting
reciprocating pump. As the operation of the pump 12 is
conventional, it will not be described in further detail. During
operation of the pump 12, vibration and reciprocating forces from
the plunger 35 may cause the packing nut 38 to loosen or back out.
As the packing nut 38 backs out, the packing 36 is affected, which
may result in pressure differentials and leakage of fluid from the
packing bore 37.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in this embodiment, a packing
nut lock 67 is comprised of a main body 69 having a generally
elongate, arcuate shape. In this embodiment, the main body 69
generally subtends an angle of around one sixth of a circle and has
a top surface 71 and a bottom surface 73. The bottom surface 73 of
the main body 69 is substantially geometrically complimentary to
the rim of the packing nut 38 and is adapted to be in abutting
contact with a portion of the outer diameter of the rim of the
packing nut 38 (FIGS. 7 and 8). Two apertures 75, 77 are located in
and extend through opposite end portions of the main body 69, with
each aperture 75, 77 extending from the top surface 71 through to
the bottom surface 73. In this embodiment, a fixed cylindrical pin
79 having an upper flange portion 81 with a greater diameter than a
lower portion 83, is inserted into and passes through one of the
apertures 75. In this embodiment, the cylindrical pin 79 is welded
to the main body 69. However, in additional embodiments, the
cylindrical pin 79 may be cast as one member with main body 69, or
may be connected to main body 69 by other means. The lower portion
83 of the fixed cylindrical pin 79 is adapted to be inserted into
one of the holes 40 that extend around the outer diameter of the
rim of packing nut 38, when the packing nut lock 67 is engaged
(FIG. 8).
[0055] Although the packing nut 38 illustrated with the current
embodiment is circular in shape, the packing nut 38 may have
alternative shapes. For example, the packing nut 38 may be
hexagonal, square, etc., in additional embodiments. In such
additional embodiments, the main body 69 of the packing nut lock 67
may be shaped to be geometrically complimentary to the shape of the
packing nut 38. For example, if the packing nut 38 were hexagonal
in shape, the main body 69 of the packing nut lock 67 would be
geometrically complimentary to the hexagonal shape of the packing
nut 38.
[0056] A spring pin assembly 85 is connected to the top surface 71
of the main body 69, above the other aperture 77. Referring to FIG.
6, the spring pin assembly 85 is comprised of a collar 87, a center
pin 89, a resilient member or spring 91, a retaining nut 93, and a
handle 95. In this embodiment, the collar 87 is a hollow bodied
cylindrical member having a closed end 97 and an open end 99. The
closed end 97 of the collar 87 has an aperture 101 located in and
extending therethrough that is aligned with the aperture 77 in the
main body 69. In this embodiment, the collar 87 is welded to the
main body 69. However, in additional embodiments, the collar 87 may
be cast as one member with the main body 69, or may be connected to
the main body 69 by other means. In this embodiment, the inner
surface of the open end 99 of the collar 87 has threads located
therein. An elongated aperture or slot 103 is located in and
extends through the cylindrical collar 87 along a portion of its
outer surface.
[0057] The center pin 89 has a cylindrical medial flange portion
105 having a diameter that is slightly less than the inner diameter
of the collar 87, such that the center pin 89 is positioned within
the collar 87. In this embodiment, a threaded aperture 107 is
located in and extends through the medial flange portion 105 of the
center pin 89, substantially perpendicular to the axis of the
center pin 89. A cylindrical locking pin portion 109 of the center
pin 89 has a smaller diameter than the flange portion 105 and
extends axially downward therefrom. The locking pin portion 109 of
the center pin 89 is adapted to be inserted into one of the holes
40 that extend along the outer diameter of the rim of the packing
nut 38 when the packing nut lock 67 is engaged (FIG. 8). A
cylindrical guide pin portion 111 of the center pin 89 has a
diameter which is smaller than the flange portion 105 and smaller
than the locking pin portion 109, and extends axially upward from
the flange portion 105, in a direction opposite to the locking pin
portion 109.
[0058] Although the holes 40 of the packing nut 38 illustrated with
the current embodiment are circular in shape, the holes 40 may have
alternative shapes. For example, the holes 40 may be hexagonal,
square, etc. in additional embodiments. In such additional
embodiments, the fixed pin 79 and the center pin 89 may be shaped
to be geometrically complimentary to the shape of the holes 40 in
the packing nut 38. For example, if the holes 40 of the packing nut
38 were hexagonal in shape, the fixed pin 79 and the center pin 89
of the packing nut lock 67 would be geometrically complimentary to
the hexagonal shape of the holes 40 of the packing nut 38.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 9, in this embodiment the handle 95 is
cylindrical and has threads located in the exterior surface of one
of its ends 113. The threaded end 113 of the handle 95 threadingly
engages with the threaded aperture 107 in the flange portion 105 of
the center pin 89, thereby connecting the handle 95 and the center
pin 89. The handle 95 extends radially outwardly from the flange
portion 105 of the center pin 89 and also passes through the
elongated aperture or slot 103 in the collar 87. The handle 95
extends a desired distance radially outward from the collar 87. The
handle 95 is adapted to move vertically within the aperture 103 of
the collar 87 to thereby move the center pin 89, and in particular
the locking pin portion 109, from an engaged position to a
disengaged position.
[0060] The cap or retaining nut 93 has a first end 115 and a second
end 117. In this embodiment, the retaining nut 93 is cylindrical
and has threads on its exterior surface that are threadably engaged
with the threads on the inner surface of the open end 99 of the
collar 87. The retaining nut 93 thereby seals or caps the open end
99 of the collar 87 when the two are connected to one another. The
second end 117 of the retaining nut 93 has an aperture 119 located
therein with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the
guide pin portion 111 of the center pin 89. The guide pin portion
111 of the center pin 89 is captured within the aperture 119 of the
retaining nut 93. As the center pin 89, and in particular, the
locking pin portion 109 is moved vertically upward from an engaged
position to a disengaged position, the guide pin portion 111 of the
center pin 89 travels further into the aperture 119 in the
retaining nut 93.
[0061] In this embodiment, the spring 91 surrounds the guide pin
portion 111 of the center pin 89 and abuts against the retaining
nut 93 on one end and the flange portion 105 of the center pin 89
on the other end. The spring 91 acts to bias the center pin 89 into
an engaged position, with the locking pin portion 109 of the center
pin 89 extending fully outward through the aperture 77 in the main
body 69 (FIGS. 4 and 5).
[0062] Referring to FIG. 9, in operation, once the packing 36 has
been inserted around the plunger 35 within the packing bore 37, the
packing nut 38 is threaded into the body of the cylinder housing
17. Referring generally to FIG. 7, a spanner (not shown) is
inserted into holes or apertures 40 on the outer diameter of the
rim of the packing nut 38, and the packing nut 38 is securely
tightened. The packing nut lock 67 is then connected to the packing
nut 38. The fixed cylindrical pin 79 is machined so that the
smaller diameter portion 83 will fit into one of the holes 40
extending around the rim of the packing nut 38. The packing nut 67
is positioned so that the smaller diameter portion 83 of the fixed
cylindrical pin 79 is positioned within one of the holes 40 of the
packing nut 38. The center pin 89 of the spring pin assembly 85 is
positioned in a disengaged position within the collar 87 by
positioning the handle 95 to its most upward position within the
elongated aperture 103. Force is maintained against the handle 95
to compress the spring 91 and to allow the center pin 89 to
maintain the disengaged position. The guide pin portion 111 of the
center pin 89 fully enters the aperture 119 in the retaining nut
93. The main body 69 of the packing nut lock 67 is positioned so
that the bottom surface 73 is in abutting contact with the outer
diameter of the rim of the packing nut 38, and the aperture 77 is
positioned directly above another hole 40 in the packing nut
38.
[0063] Referring generally to FIGS. 8 and 9, once the packing nut
lock 67 is properly positioned, the force is removed from the
handle 95 of the spring pin assembly 85, and the spring 91 expands
and pushes the center pin 89 downward relative to the collar 87.
The locking pin portion 109 of the center pin 89 fully extends
through the aperture 77 in the main body 69 of the packing nut lock
67 and engages another hole 40 in the packing nut 38. Based on the
angles of the fixed cylindrical pin 79 and the center pin 89
relative to one another within the holes 40 of the packing nut 38,
the packing nut lock 67 is securely engaged with the packing nut
38, and cannot be removed without disengaging the spring pin
assembly 85.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 10, the spring pin assembly 85, and in
particular, the collar 87 and the retaining cap 95, extend radially
outward from the center of the packing bore 37 by a distance that
is greater than or equal to the distance from the center of the
packing bore to the stay rod 15. If the packing nut 38 begins to
rotate relative to the housing 17, the spring pin assembly 85 makes
contact with the stay rod 15, thereby preventing the packing nut
lock 67 from rotating relative to the housing 17, and thus, also
preventing the packing nut 38 from rotating any further relative to
the housing 17. As a result, the packing nut lock 67 prevents the
packing nut 38 from loosening and backing out of the packing bore
37.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, in an alternate embodiment, a
packing nut lock 121 is comprised of a main body 123 having a
generally elongate, arcuate shape. In this alternate embodiment,
the main body 123 generally subtends an angle of about one sixth of
a circle and has a top surface 125 and a bottom surface 127. The
bottom surface 127 of the main body 123 is substantially
geometrically complimentary to the rim of the packing nut 38 and is
adapted to be in abutting contact with a portion of the outer
diameter of the rim of the packing nut 38. An aperture 131 is
located in and extends through an end portion of the main body 123,
with the aperture 131 extending from the top surface 125 through to
the bottom surface 127. In this alternate embodiment, a fixed
cylindrical pin 133 having an upper concave portion 135 with a
lesser diameter than a lower portion 137, extends from the bottom
surface 127 of the main body 123, opposite the end portion of the
main body 123 through which the aperture 131 extends. In this
alternate embodiment, the cylindrical pin 133 is cast as one member
with the main body 123. However, in additional embodiments, the
cylindrical pin 133 may be welded to the main body 123, or may be
connected to the main body 123 by other means. The fixed
cylindrical pin 133 is adapted to be inserted into one of the holes
40 that extend along the outer diameter of the rim of the packing
nut 38 when the packing nut lock 121 is engaged.
[0066] A spring pin assembly 139 is connected to the top surface
125 of the main body 123, above the aperture 131. Referring to
FIGS. 13 and 14, the spring pin assembly 139 is comprised of a
collar 141, a center pin 143, a resilient member or spring 145, and
a handle 147. In this embodiment, the collar 141 is a hollow bodied
cylindrical member having a closed end 149 and an open end 151. The
open end 151 of the collar 141 is aligned with the aperture 131 in
the main body 123. In this alternate embodiment, the collar 141 is
welded to the main body 123. However, in additional embodiments,
the collar 141 may be cast as one member with the main body 123, or
may be connected to the main body 123 by other means. An elongated
aperture or slot 153 is located in and extends through the
cylindrical collar 141 along a portion of its outer surface.
[0067] The center pin 143 is a cylindrical member having a diameter
that is slightly less than the inner diameter of the collar 141,
such that the center pin 143 is positioned within the collar 141.
In this embodiment, a threaded aperture 155 is located in and
extends through a medial portion of the center pin 143,
substantially perpendicular to the axis of the center pin 143. An
end portion 157 of the center pin 143 is adapted to be inserted
into one of the holes 40 that extend around the outer diameter of
the rim of the packing nut 38 when the packing nut lock 121 is
engaged.
[0068] In this embodiment, the handle 147 is cylindrical and has
threads located in the exterior surface of one of its ends 159. The
threaded end 159 of the handle 147 threadingly engages the threaded
aperture 155 in the medial portion of the center pin 143, thereby
connecting the handle 147 and the center pin 143. The handle 147
extends radially outward from the center pin 143 before passing
through the elongated aperture or slot 153 in the collar 141. The
handle 147 extends a desired distance radially outward from the
collar 141. The handle 147 is adapted to move vertically within the
aperture 153 of the collar 141 to thereby move the center pin 143,
and in particular, the end portion 157, from an engaged position to
a disengaged position.
[0069] In this embodiment, the spring 145 is positioned within the
collar 141 between the closed end 149 of the collar 141 and the
center pin 143. The spring 145 acts to bias the center pin 143 in
an engaged position, with the end portion 157 of the center pin 143
extending fully outward through the aperture 131 in the main body
123 (FIGS. 11 and 12).
[0070] In operation, the alternate embodiment packing nut lock 121
is installed on the reciprocating pump 12 and engaged/disengaged
with the packing nut 38 just as for the first embodiment of a
packing nut lock 67 described herein.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 15 through 17, in an alternate
embodiment, a packing nut lock and tool 161 is comprised of a main
body 163 having a generally elongate, arcuate shape. The packing
nut lock and tool 161 of this alternate embodiment may be employed
similarly to the packing nut locks 67, 121 of the aforementioned
embodiments set forth herein. The packing nut lock and tool 161 of
this alternate embodiment may also be utilized with other portions
of the reciprocating pump 12. For example, the packing nut lock and
tool 161 may be utilized with the packing nut 38, a discharge
flange, a gauge port, or any item that incorporate holes or
apertures on the outer diameter of the rim of the item. For
illustration purposes only, the packing nut lock and tool 161 shown
in FIG. 15 will be discussed in relationship to the packing nut
38.
[0072] In this alternate embodiment, the main body 163 of the
packing nut lock and tool 161 generally subtends an angle of around
one fifth of a circle and has a top surface 165 and a bottom
surface 167. The bottom surface 167 of the main body 163 is
substantially geometrically complimentary to the rim of the packing
nut 38 and is adapted to be in abutting contact with a portion of
the outer diameter of the rim of the packing nut 38. Referring to
FIG. 17, an aperture 169 is located in and extends through an end
portion of the main body 163, with the aperture 169, extending from
the top surface 165 through to the bottom surface 167. In this
alternate embodiment, a fixed cylindrical pin 171 having an upper
concave portion 173 with a lesser diameter than a lower portion
175, extends from the bottom surface 167 of the main body 163,
opposite the end portion of the main body 163 through which the
aperture 169 extends. In this alternate embodiment, the cylindrical
pin 171 is cast as one member with the main body 163. However, in
additional embodiments, the cylindrical pin 171 may be welded to
the main body 163, or may be connected to main body 163 by other
means. The fixed cylindrical pin 171 is adapted to be inserted into
one of the holes 40 that extend along the outer diameter of the rim
of packing nut 38 when the packing nut lock and tool 161 are
engaged.
[0073] A cylindrical arm 176 extends from the top surface 165 of
the main body 163 of the packing nut lock and tool 161, just above
the fixed cylindrical pin 171. In this embodiment, the cylindrical
arm 176 is cast as one member with the main body 163. However, in
additional embodiments, the cylindrical arm 176 may be welded to
the main body 163, or may be connected to the main body 163 by
other means. In this embodiment, a substantially rectangular
engagement member 177 is connected to the end of the cylindrical
arm 176, opposite the main body 163 of the packing nut lock and
tool 161. The substantially rectangular engagement member 177 has
two substantially planar contact surfaces 178, 179 on opposite
sides of and parallel to one another. The planar contact surfaces
178, 179 extend in a plane that intersects and is substantially
perpendicular to the arc of the main body 163. The planar contact
surface 178, 179 are adapted to act as a contact point for a force
to be exerted on the packing nut lock and tool 161, for example,
the force of a sledge hammer.
[0074] A spring pin assembly 181 is connected to the top surface
165 of the main body 163, above the aperture 169. Referring to FIG.
17, the spring pin assembly 181 is comprised of a collar 183, a
center pin 185, a resilient member or spring 187, and a handle 189.
In this embodiment, the collar 183 is a hollow bodied cylindrical
member having a closed end 191 and an open end 193. The open end
193 of the collar 183 is aligned with the aperture 169 in the main
body 163. In this alternate embodiment, the collar 183 is cast as
one member with the main body 163. However, in additional
embodiments, the collar 183 may be welded to the main body 163, or
may be connected to the main body 163 by other means. An elongated
aperture or slot 195 is located in and extends through the
cylindrical collar 183 along a portion of its outer surface.
[0075] The center pin 185 is a cylindrical member having a diameter
that is slightly less than the inner diameter of the collar 183,
such that the center pin 185 is positioned within the collar 183.
In this embodiment, a threaded aperture 197 is located in and
extends through a portion of the center pin 185, substantially
perpendicular to the axis of the center pin 185. An end portion 199
of the center pin 185 is adapted to be inserted into one of the
holes 40 that extend along the outer diameter of the rim of the
packing nut 38 when the packing nut lock and tool 161 is
engaged.
[0076] In this embodiment, the handle 189 is cylindrical and has
threads located in the exterior surface of one of its ends 201. The
threaded end 201 of the handle 189 threadingly engages the threaded
aperture 197 in the portion of the center pin 185, thereby
connecting the handle 189 and the center pin 185. The handle 189
extends radially outward from the center pin 185 before passing
through the elongated aperture or slot 195 in the collar 183. The
handle 189 extends a desired distance radially outward from the
collar 183. The handle 189 is adapted to move vertically within the
aperture 195 of the collar 183 to thereby move the center pin 185,
and in particular, the end portion 199, from an engaged position to
a disengaged position.
[0077] In this embodiment, the spring 187 is positioned within the
collar 183 between the closed end 191 of the collar 183 and the
center pin 185. The spring 187 acts to bias the center pin 185 in
an engaged position, with the end portion 199 of the center pin 185
extending fully outward through the aperture 169 in the main body
163. In this embodiment, a rib or brace structure 203 extends
between the collar 183, the upper surface 165 of the main body 163,
and the cylindrical arm 176. In this alternate embodiment, the rib
or brace structure 203 is cast as one member with the main body
163, collar 183, and cylindrical arm 176. However, in additional
embodiments, the brace structure 203 may be welded to the main body
163, collar 183, and cylindrical arm 176, or may be connected by
other means. In this embodiment, a rib or brace structure 205
extends between the upper surface 165 of the main body 163 and the
cylindrical arm 176. In this alternate embodiment, the rib or brace
structure 205 is cast as one member with the main body 163 and with
the cylindrical arm 176. However, in additional embodiments, the
brace structure 205 may be welded to the main body 163 and to the
cylindrical arm 176, or may be connected by other means.
[0078] In operation, the alternate embodiment packing nut lock and
tool 161 is installed on the reciprocating pump 12 and
engaged/disengaged with the packing nut 38 just as for the first
embodiment of a packing nut lock 67 and also for the additional
embodiment of a packing nut lock 121. However, in the packing nut
lock and tool 161 of this embodiment, the cylindrical arm 176 and
the substantially rectangular engagement member 177 extend radially
outward from the center of the packing bore 37 a distance that is
greater than or equal to the distance from the center of the
packing bore to the stay rod 15 (items illustrated in FIG. 10 may
be referred to). If the packing nut 38 begins to rotate relative to
the housing 17, the cylindrical arm 176 and the substantially
rectangular engagement member 177 may make contact with the stay
rod 15, thereby preventing the packing nut lock and tool 161 from
rotating relative to the housing 17, and thus, also preventing the
packing nut 38 from rotating any further relative to the housing
17. As a result, the packing nut lock and tool 161 prevents the
packing nut 38 from loosening and backing out of the packing bore
37.
[0079] In operation, the alternate embodiment packing nut lock and
tool 163 may also be utilized to tighten and/or loosen an item that
incorporate holes or apertures on the outer diameter of the rim of
the item. For example, generally referring to FIG. 16, a spanner
(not shown) may be inserted into holes or apertures 40 on the outer
diameter of the rim of the packing nut 38, and the packing nut 38
may be tightened. However, referring to FIG. 17, to ensure that the
packing nut 38 is securely tightened, the packing nut lock and tool
161 may be connected to the packing nut 38 by engaging the fixed
cylindrical pin 171 and the center pin 185 with holes 40 in the
packing nut 38. As discussed with respect to the packing nut lock
67, the center pin 185 is first retracted into the collar 183 using
the handle 189 as the fixed cylindrical pin 171 is inserted into
one of the holes 40 of the packing nut 38. Once the fixed
cylindrical pin 171 is positioned within one of the holes 40 of the
packing nut 38, the handle 189 of the center pin 185 is released,
and the end portion 199 of the center pin 185 engages another hole
40 in the packing nut 38, thereby securely connecting the packing
nut lock and tool 161 to the packing nut 38. Once the packing nut
lock and tool 161 is connected to the packing nut 38, a force may
be applied to one of the planar contact surfaces 178, 179 of the
substantially rectangular engagement member 177. The force is
applied at an angle substantially perpendicular to the planar
contact surfaces 178, 179, thus resulting in a force that causes
the packing nut lock and tool 161 to rotate about the axis of the
packing bore. For example, the force may be applied by an operator
engaging the planar contact surfaces 178, 179 with a sledge hammer.
The force can be applied to the contact surfaces 178, 179 until the
packing nut lock and tool 161 rotates a desired amount, and thus,
the packing nut 38 is either tightened or loosed to the operator's
liking. Depending upon whether the packing nut 38 is to be
tightened or loosed, the force is applied to the corresponding
contact surface 178, 179 of the packing nut lock and tool 161 to
achieve the desired result, as illustrated in FIG. 17 by the items
F1 and F2 illustrating the direction of the force applied, and the
corresponding directions of rotation, R1 and R2.
[0080] The foregoing embodiment(s) described provide several
operational advantages aimed at preventing backing off of the
packing nut. When in place, the packing nut locks of the present
disclosure maintain the necessary pressure between the plunger and
the packing, and help to prevent the packing bore from leaking due
to movement of the packing and backing off of the packing nut. The
foregoing embodiments also provide a device and method for
tightening and loosening a threaded nut in a threaded bore.
[0081] 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", "upward" and
"downward" and the like are used as words of convenience to provide
reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.
[0082] 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.
[0083] In addition, the foregoing describes only some embodiments
of the disclosure, 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.
[0084] Furthermore, disclosures have been described in connection
with what are presently considered to be the most practical and
preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure
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
disclosure(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.
* * * * *