Abstract:
A method for removing a buildup of solid impurities on a barrel using a cyclonic debris evacuation assembly, the method comprising: capturing solid impurities between a cup component of said cyclonic debris evacuation assembly and the barrel in a groove positioned below the cup component; directing the solid impurities in the groove into at least one port; and flushing away the solid impurities.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a divisional of and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 12/902,804, titled CYCLONIC DEBRIS EVACUATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A PUMP filed Oct. 12, 2010 by Michael Brent Ford which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/785,028 titled CYCLONIC DEBRIS EVACUATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A PUMP filed May 21, 2010 by Michael Brent Ford that claimed priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/180,676 titled CYCLONIC DEBRIS EVACUATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A PUMP and filed on May 22, 2009 by Michael Ford, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present application generally relates to fluid pumping apparatuses and systems and, more particularly, to a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus and method that is intended to extend plunger and barrel life. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Oil well pumping systems are well known in the art. Such systems can be used to mechanically remove oil or other fluid from beneath the earth&#39;s surface, particularly when the natural pressure in an oil well has diminished. Generally, an oil well pumping system begins with an above-ground pumping unit, which can commonly be referred to as a “pumpjack,” “nodding donkey,” “horsehead pump,” “beam pump,” “sucker rod pump,” and the like. The pumping unit can create a reciprocating up and down pumping action that moves the oil, or other substance being pumped, out of the ground and into a flow line, from which the oil is then taken to a storage tank or other such structure. 
     Below the ground, a shaft is lined with piping known as “tubing.” Into the tubing is inserted a string of sucker rods, which ultimately is indirectly coupled at its north end to the above-ground pumping unit. The string of sucker rods is ultimately indirectly coupled at its south end to a subsurface or “down-hole” pump that is located at or near the fluid in the oil well. The subsurface pump can have a number of basic components, including a barrel and a plunger. The plunger can operate within the barrel, and the barrel, in turn, is positioned within the tubing. It is common for the barrel to include a standing valve and the plunger to include a traveling valve. The standing valve can have a ball therein, the purpose of which is to regulate the passage of oil from down-hole into the pump, allowing the pumped matter to be moved northward out of the system and into the flow line, while preventing the pumped matter from dropping back southward into the hole. Oil can be permitted to pass through the standing valve and into the pump by the movement of the ball off its seat, and oil is prevented from dropping back into the hole by the seating of the ball. North of the standing valve, coupled to the sucker rods, can be the traveling valve. The traveling valve can regulate the passage of oil from within the pump northward in the direction of the flow line, while preventing the pumped oil from dropping back southward, in the direction of the standing valve and hole. 
     Actual movement of the pumped substance through the system will now be discussed. Oil is typically pumped from a hole through a series of downstrokes and upstrokes of the pump, which motion is imparted by the above-ground pumping unit. During the upstroke, formation pressure causes the ball in the standing valve to move upward, allowing the oil to pass through the standing valve and into the barrel of the oil pump. This oil can be held in place between the standing valve and the traveling valve. In the traveling valve, the ball is located in the seated position, held there by the pressure from the oil that has been previously pumped. 
     On the downstroke, the ball in the traveling valve unseats, permitting the oil that has passed through the standing valve to pass there through. Also during the downstroke, the ball in the standing valve seats, prevents pumped oil from moving back down into the hole. The process repeats itself again and again, with oil essentially being moved in stages from the hole, to above the standing valve and in the oil pump, to above the traveling valve and out of the oil pump. As the oil pump fills, the oil passes through the pump and into the tubing. As the tubing is filled, the oil passes into the flow line, and is then taken to the storage tank or other such structure. 
     There are a number of problems that are regularly encountered during fluid pumping operations. Fluid that is pumped from the ground is generally impure, and includes solid impurities such as sand, pebbles, limestone, grit, iron sulfide, and other sediment and debris. Certain kinds of pumped fluids, such as heavy crude, tend to contain a relatively large amount of solids. 
     Solid impurities can be harmful to a fluid pumping apparatus and its components for a number of reasons. For example, sand, pebbles, limestone, grit, iron sulfide, and other sediment and debris can become trapped between pump components, causing damage and excessive wear, reducing effectiveness, and sometimes requiring a halt to pumping operations and replacement of the damaged components. These solid impurities frequently collect and become concentrated between the barrel and plunger. In particular, as the amount of space or clearance between the exterior surface of the plunger and the interior surface of the barrel in typical pump plungers and barrels can be as great as 0.01″, this permits a constant passage of fluid, including solid impurities, between the plunger exterior and the barrel interior. During fluid pumping operations, particularly when the pump plunger reciprocates, the collection of solid impurities causes rapid wear to the pump components. Thus, the solid impurities that are contained within the fluid and that pass through the space between the plunger and the barrel score the plunger and barrel surfaces, thereby reducing the operating life of both. In addition, frictional forces generated by the collections of solid impurities can cause excessive stress to be generated throughout the pump and sucker rod string, which often results in sticking of the pump, automatic shut-down of the pumping unit, or a parted sucker rod string. 
     One prior art solution has been the use of plunger units having large accumulation areas into which the solid impurities can be collected. The accumulation areas in such plunger units are typically approximately 3-5 feet long and are composed of metal. However, such units must be replaced in their entirety when they sustain wear. In general, repairs to or replacement of pump components that become necessary by virtue of the aforementioned damage caused by solid impurities can be time-consuming and expensive. 
     The present application addresses these problems encountered in prior art pumping systems and provides other, related advantages. 
     SUMMARY 
     In accordance with one embodiment of the present application, a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus is provided. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can include a cyclone component having at least one flute. In addition, the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can include a cup component fitted over a portion of the cyclone component. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can also include a ring component connected to the cup component fitted over a portion of the cyclone component and having a groove with at least one port. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can include a ring coupler component connected to the ring component and coupled to the cyclone component. 
     In accordance with another embodiment of the present application, a method for removing a buildup of solid impurities on a barrel using a cyclonic debris evacuation assembly is provided. The method can include capturing solid impurities between a cup component of the cyclonic debris evacuation assembly and the barrel in a groove positioned below the cup component. In addition, the method can include directing the solid impurities in the groove into at least one port. The method can also include flushing away the solid impurities. 
     In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present application, a debris removal apparatus is provided. The debris removal apparatus can include a hollow valve rod coupler component and a cup component fitted over a portion of the hollow valve rod coupler component. In addition, the debris removal apparatus can include a ring component fitted over a portion of the hollow valve rod coupler component having at least one port. The debris removal apparatus can also include a ring coupler component coupled to the hollow valve rod coupler component. The debris removal apparatus can include a channel that extends through the hollow valve rod coupler component and the ring coupler component and in fluid communication with the at least one port. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features believed to be characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. In the descriptions that follow, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same numerals, respectively. The drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and certain figures can be shown in exaggerated or generalized form in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The application itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a front view of an exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 2 , taken along line  3 - 3 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an exemplary cyclone component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the exemplary cyclone component of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cyclone component of  FIG. 5 , taken along line  6 - 6 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an exemplary cup component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 8  is a top view of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 7 , taken along line  9 - 9 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an exemplary cup component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 11  is a top view of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a bottom view of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 10 , taken along line  13 - 13 ; 
         FIG. 14  is an exploded, perspective view of an exemplary cup component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view of end portions of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a close-up, cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17  is an exploded, cross-sectional view of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a close-up, exploded view of an end portion of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a close-up view of an end portion of the exemplary cup component of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an exemplary ring component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of the exemplary ring component of  FIG. 20 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a top view of the exemplary ring component of  FIG. 20 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of an exemplary ring coupler component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 24  is a side view of the exemplary ring coupler component of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a top view of the exemplary ring coupler component of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary ring coupler component of  FIG. 24 , taken along line  26 - 26 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of an exemplary seal device to be utilized with a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 28  is a top view of the exemplary seal device of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary seal device of  FIG. 28 , taken along line  29 - 29 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of an exemplary O-ring device to be utilized with a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 31  is a top view of the exemplary O-ring device of  FIG. 30 ; 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary O-ring device of  FIG. 31 , taken along line  32 - 32 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a front view of an exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 33 , shown without threading at a top portion thereof; 
         FIG. 35  is a side view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 35 , taken along line  36 - 36 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a perspective view of an exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 38  is a side view of the exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of  FIG. 37 ; 
         FIG. 39  a cross-sectional view of the exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of  FIG. 38 , taken along line  39 - 39 ; 
         FIG. 40  is a bottom view of the exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of  FIG. 37 ; 
         FIG. 41  is a top view of the exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of  FIG. 37 ; 
         FIG. 42  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of  FIG. 38 , taken along line  42 - 42 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary hollow valve rod coupler component of  FIG. 38 , taken along line  43 - 43 ; 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cyclone component of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 45  is a side view of the exemplary cyclone component of  FIG. 44 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cyclone component of  FIG. 44 ; 
         FIG. 47  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary cyclone component of  FIG. 44 ; 
         FIG. 48  is a perspective view of an exemplary ring component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of the present application; 
         FIG. 49  is a side view of the exemplary ring component of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 50  is a top view of the exemplary ring component of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 51  is a top perspective view of an exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus having a modified ring component, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 52  is a side view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 51 ; 
         FIG. 53  is a cross-section of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 52 , taken along line  44 - 44 ; 
         FIG. 54  is an exploded view of the portion identified by circle A shown in  FIG. 53 ; 
         FIG. 55  is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary modified ring component, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 56  is a side view of the exemplary modified ring component of  FIG. 55 ; 
         FIG. 57  is a cross-section of the exemplary modified ring component of  FIG. 56 , taken along line  45 - 45 ; 
         FIG. 58  is a top view of the exemplary modified ring component of  FIG. 56 ; 
         FIG. 59  is a cross-section of the exemplary modified ring component of  FIG. 56 , taken along line  46 - 46 ; 
         FIG. 60  is a bottom perspective front view of an exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus for use with a tubing pump system, consistent with an embodiment of the present application; 
         FIG. 61  is a top view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 60 ; 
         FIG. 62  is a side view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 60 ; and 
         FIG. 63  is a cross-section of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus of  FIG. 62 , taken along line  47 - 47 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled in the relevant art to practice the various embodiments described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the relevant art, and generic principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown and described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various embodiments described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. 
     The present application generally relates to fluid pumps and associated systems and, more particularly, to a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus and method that is intended to extend plunger and barrel life. In one illustrative embodiment, a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus and method for dispersing debris in a pumping system that forms between the plunger exterior and barrel interior is provided. The apparatus can be configured for use with a valve rod and have a cyclone component, cup component, ring component, and ring coupler component. The apparatus can also be configured for use with a hollow valve rod and have a hollow valve rod coupler component, cup component, ring component, and ring coupler component. 
     The cup component can be composed of a high density poly-fiber material that helps in creating a positive seal between the cup component and barrel interior during pumping operations, helping to direct solids into the cup component and thereby preventing them from travelling southward in the direction of the barrel and causing damage. The cup component can also include a specialized leading edge adapted to direct solids into the cup component. Interior to the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus, entering debris can become mixed with pumped fluid, and can be drawn out of the pumping system with the pumped fluid. The pumped fluid passing through the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can be caused to rotate by a radial design of flutes included on the cyclone component or an angled design of openings included on the hollow valve rod coupler component. 
     To further prevent solids from traveling down the pump plunger, the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can incorporate a groove to assist with removal of the debris. The grove can be tapered to capture solids between the barrel and the cup component of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus. With this improvement, the solids are prevented from moving back and forth on the outer diameter of the cup component reducing or eliminating barrel and plunger wear. The groove can divert the solids away from the barrel wall and into a channel cut three hundred and sixty (360) degrees around the shaft of the apparatus. The apparatus can be configured for which three (3) angle ports allow liquid to flow into the interior section of the main body of the apparatus. The solids can be swept away into the flow keeping the cup and barrel and plunger from additional wear. 
     Typically the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus can be adapted to each pump design that is currently being utilized in the production of crude oil. In a further illustrative embodiment, the apparatus can incorporate a top plunger adapter for tubing pump designs known to those skilled in the relevant art. The adapter can be coupled to a sucker rod connector. Details of the embodiments of the present application will now be described. 
     Referring first to  FIGS. 1-3 , a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  consistent with an embodiment of the present application is shown. In describing the structure of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  and its operation, the terms “north” and “south” are utilized. The term “north” is intended to refer to that end of the pumping system that is more proximate the pumping unit, while the term “south” is intended to refer to that end of the system that is more distal the pumping unit, or “down hole.” In this embodiment, the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  is configured for use with a pumping system employing a valve rod. 
     Beginning from the north end, the main components of this embodiment of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , which has a substantially cylindrical external configuration, include the following: (a) a cyclone component  12 , (b) a cup component  14 , (c) a ring component  16 , and (d) a ring coupler component  18 . The overall length of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  can range from approximately one foot to six feet or more. However, it should be clearly understood that substantial benefit could be derived from a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  having a length that deviates from these dimensions, even substantially, in either direction. For certain embodiments, it can be desired to extend the overall length of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  by providing more than one coupler pieces, such as the ring coupler component  18  or the like, which can be adapted to be coupled together end-to-end. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  is adapted to be coupled, at a northern-most portion thereof, to a sucker rod or valve rod, and at a southern-most portion thereof, to a pump plunger, as further discussed below. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4-6 , the cyclone component  12  will be described. In this embodiment, the cyclone component  12  is a one-piece structure comprising a substantially elongated member having a north end  20 , south end  22 , head  26 , neck  27 , and body  28  having a plurality of flutes  29 . An opening  24  in the cyclone component  12  proximate its north end  20  is adapted to receive a southern portion of a sucker rod or valve rod. Threading  21  is included in this embodiment for purposes of coupling the cyclone component  12  to the sucker rod or valve rod. In this embodiment, the threading  21  is positioned at a southern portion of the opening  24 , with a northern portion of opening  24  being unthreaded. The unthreaded area of opening  24  acts as an additional support area for a valve rod. The neck  27 , in this embodiment, has an overall outer diameter that is slightly less than the outer diameter of the head  26 . The neck  27  extends from a southern portion of the head  26  to a northern portion of the body  28 . South of the neck  27  is the body  28 , which includes the plurality of flutes  29 . In this embodiment, three flutes  29  are included in the body  28 . However, it can be desired to configure a cyclone component  12  having more than three or less than three flutes  29 . In one embodiment, the flutes  29  are radial. In this way, the flutes  29  assist in facilitating the rotation of fluid with solids during pumping operations and enable the solids to be suspended in an orbital rotation for a longer duration during pumping operations, compared with prior art pumping systems. The flutes  29 , as seen in this embodiment, extend on an angle from a southern to a northern portion of the body  28 . The flutes  29  are open so that fluids and solids can pass there through during pumping operations, eventually continuing northward through the pump barrel. The flutes  29  are substantially elongated, but can be configured in other ways, as desired. Preferably, the flutes taper inwardly as they rotate downwardly (southwardly), helping to direct solid impurities toward an interior portion of the flutes  29 , and preventing them from rolling outward from the flutes  29  as they move in a downward direction. Solid impurities that do reach a bottom portion of the flutes  29  are held against an outer wall of the flutes  29  as they settle downward. Preferably, a bottom portion of the flutes  29  tapers inwardly, and away from a main horizontal plane of the cyclone component  12 , thereby guiding solid impurities into the openings of the flutes  29 , allowing them to settle downward in the direction of the pump plunger, and helping to prevent solid impurities from accumulating on the barrel and causing damage to the barrel. In this embodiment, the flutes  29  are spaced equidistant from each other. The flutes  29  communicate with a channel  25  positioned proximate the south end  22  of the cyclone component  12 . 
     Grooves  62  and  64  are positioned south of the flutes  29  on the cyclone component  12 . In this embodiment, one groove  62  and two grooves  64  are utilized, but it should be noted that it would be possible to vary the number of grooves  62  and  64 , as desired. Grooves  62  and  64  are each adapted to receive an O-ring device  60  (as shown in  FIGS. 30-32 ). An O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  62  can be useful for helping to secure and align the cup component  14  in position over the cyclone component  12 . An O-ring device  60  (or devices  60 ) positioned in grooves  64  can be useful for helping to secure and align the ring component  16  in position over the cyclone component  12 . 
     Preferably, the south end  22  of the cyclone component includes a threaded region  23 , such that the cyclone component  12  can be coupled to the ring coupler component  18 , as further discussed below. 
     The cyclone component  12  is preferably adapted to be fitted in the cup component  14 , as further discussed below. In this embodiment, when the cyclone component  12  is positioned in the cup component  14 , the head  26  and a portion of the neck  27  protrude from a northern portion of the cup component  14 , while threaded region  23  is exposed below a southern portion of the cup component  14 . In a preferred embodiment, when an O-ring device  60  is positioned in groove  62 , the cup component  14  can be pushed into position over the cyclone component  12 . The O-ring device  60  can help to align the cup component  14  over the cyclone component  12 , so that the cyclone component  12  is substantially centered within the cup component  14 . In another embodiment, the cyclone component  12  can include threading north of its south end  22 , such that the cyclone component  12  can be coupled to the cup component  14 , as further discussed below. Preferably, the cyclone component  12  is composed of a hardened material, such as carbide, an alloy or some other suitable material. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 44-47 , another embodiment of a cyclone component, hereinafter “cyclone component  12 A,” is shown. The cyclone component  12 A can be used as an alternative to the cyclone component  12  and is somewhat similar to the cyclone component  12 , but includes an additional feature of a head  26 A having a plurality of flutes  29 B. This feature helps in strengthening the cyclone component  12 A. In this embodiment, the cyclone component  12 A is a one-piece structure comprising a substantially elongated member having a north end  20 A, south end  22 A, head  26 A, neck  27 A, and body  28 A having a plurality of flutes  29 A. An opening  24 A (shown in  FIG. 46 ) in the cyclone component  12 A proximate its north end  20 A is adapted to receive a southern portion of a sucker rod or valve rod. Threading  21 A (shown in  FIG. 46 ) is included in this embodiment for purposes of coupling the cyclone component  12 A to the sucker rod or valve rod. In this embodiment, the threading  21 A is positioned at a southern portion of the opening  24 A, with a northern portion of opening  24 A being unthreaded. The unthreaded area of opening  24 A acts an additional support area for a valve rod. 
     In this embodiment, the head  26 A includes three flutes  29 B. However, it can be desired to configure a cyclone component  12 A having more than three or less than three flutes  29 B. As shown in this embodiment, the head  26 A and plurality of flutes  29 B extend north of threading  21 A. In one embodiment, the flutes  29 B are radial. In this way, the flutes  293  assist in facilitating the rotation of fluid with solids during pumping operations and enable the solids to be suspended in an orbital rotation for a longer duration during pumping operations, compared with prior art pumping systems. The flutes  29 B, as seen in this embodiment, extend on an angle from a southern portion to a northern portion of the head  26 A. The flutes  29 B are open so that fluids and solids can pass there through during pumping operations, eventually continuing northward through the pump barrel. The flutes  29 B are substantially elongated, but can be configured in other ways, as desired. Preferably, the flutes  29 B taper inwardly as they rotate downwardly (southwardly), helping to direct solid impurities toward an interior portion of the flutes  29 B, and preventing them from rolling outward from the flutes  29 B as they move in a downward direction. Solid impurities that do reach a bottom portion of the flutes  29 B are held against an outer wall of the flutes  29 B as they settle downward. Preferably, a bottom portion of the flutes  29 B tapers inwardly, and away from a main horizontal plane of the cyclone component  12 A, thereby guiding solid impurities into the openings of the flutes  29 B, allowing them to settle downward in the direction of the pump plunger, and helping to prevent solid impurities from accumulating on the barrel and causing damage to the barrel. Overall, the design of the flutes  29 B helps in directing solid impurities toward a central interior portion of the cyclone component  12 A, thereby helping to direct such solid impurities away from a leading edge of the cup component  14 ,  14 A, or  50 , as referred to below. This helps to prevent premature failure of the cup component  14 ,  14 A, or  50  by preventing solid impurities from filling the cup component  14 ,  14 A or  50  prematurely. In this embodiment, the flutes  29 B are spaced equidistant from each other. 
     The neck  27 A, in this embodiment, has an overall outer diameter that is slightly less than the outer diameter of the head  26 A. The neck  27 A extends from a southern portion of the head  26 A to a northern portion of the body  28 A. South of the neck  27 A is the body  28 A, which includes the plurality of flutes  29 A. In this embodiment, three flutes  29 A are included in the body  28 A. However, it can be desired to configure a cyclone component  12 A having more than three or less than three flutes  29 A. In one embodiment, the flutes  29 A are radial. In this way, the flutes  29 A assist in facilitating the rotation of fluid with solids during pumping operations and enable the solids to be suspended in an orbital rotation for a longer duration during pumping operations, compared with prior art pumping systems. The flutes  29 A, as seen in this embodiment, extend on an angle from a southern to a northern portion of the body  28 A. The flutes  29 A are open so that fluids and solids can pass there through during pumping operations, eventually continuing northward through the pump barrel. The flutes  29 A are substantially elongated, but can be configured in other ways, as desired. Preferably, the flutes  29 A taper inwardly as they rotate downwardly (southwardly), helping to direct solid impurities toward an interior portion of the flutes  29 A, and preventing them from rolling outward from the flutes  29 A as they move in a downward direction. Solid impurities that do reach a bottom portion of the flutes  29 A are held against an outer wall of the flutes  29 A as they settle downward. Preferably, a bottom portion of the flutes  29 A tapers inwardly, and away from a main horizontal plane of the cyclone component  12 A, thereby guiding solid impurities into the openings of the flutes  29 A, allowing them to settle downward in the direction of the pump plunger, and helping to prevent solid impurities from accumulating on the barrel and causing damage to the barrel. In this embodiment, the flutes  29 A are spaced equidistant from each other. The flutes  29 A communicate with a channel  25 A (shown in  FIGS. 46 AND 47 ) positioned proximate the south end  22 A of the cyclone component  12 A. 
     Grooves  62 A and  64 A are positioned south of the flutes  29 A on the cyclone component  12 A. In this embodiment, one groove  62 A and two grooves  64 A are utilized, but it should be noted that it would be possible to vary the number of grooves  62 A and  64 A, as desired. Grooves  62 A and  64 A are each adapted to receive an O-ring device  60  (as shown in  FIGS. 30-32 ). An O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  62 A can be useful for helping to secure and align the cup component  14  in position over the cyclone component  12 A. An O-ring device  60  (or devices  60 ) positioned in grooves  64  can be useful for helping to secure and align the ring component  16  in position over the cyclone component  12 A. 
     While in this embodiment the south end  22 A of the cyclone component  12 A is shown without threading, the south end  22 A can include a threaded region similar to threaded region  23  of cyclone component  12 , such that the cyclone component  12 A can be coupled to the ring coupler component  18 , as further discussed below. 
     The cyclone component  12 A is preferably adapted to be fitted in the cup component  14 , as further discussed below. In a preferred embodiment, when an O-ring device  60  is positioned in groove  62 A, the cup component  14  can be pushed into position over the cyclone component  12 A. The O-ring device  60  will help to align the cup component  14  over the cyclone component  12 A, so that the cyclone component  12 A is substantially centered within the cup component  14 . In another embodiment, the cyclone component  12 A can include threading north of its south end  22 A, such that the cyclone component  12 A can be coupled to the cup component  14 , as further discussed below. Preferably, the cyclone component  12 A is composed of a hardened material, such as carbide, an alloy or some other suitable material. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 10-13 , the cup component  14  will be described. The cup component  14  comprises an elongated, substantially tubular member having a north end  30 , a south end  32  and a longitudinal channel  34  running there through. The cup component  14  is adapted to receive and fit over a portion of the cyclone component  12  (as seen in  FIGS. 1-3 ). Preferably, the north end  30  of the cup component  14  tapers inward (as shown in  FIG. 13 , for example), which helps in directing solid impurities into the interior diameter of the cup component  14 . In this embodiment, a first segment  36  of the channel  34  proximate the south end  32  has an interior diameter that is less than the interior diameter of the channel  34  overall. In this way, when the cup component  14  is fitted over the cyclone component  12 , the cup component  14  can be firmly secured in place. As shown in this embodiment, a second segment  38  of the channel  34  can be angled toward the segment  36 , such that a northern-most portion of the segment  38  has an interior diameter corresponding to the interior diameter of the channel  34  overall, while a southern-most portion of the segment  38  has an interior diameter corresponding to the interior diameter of the segment  36 . In another embodiment, it can be desired to configure a cup component  14  having a consistent interior diameter from the north end  30  to the south end  32 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the cup component  14  is comprised of a high density poly-fiber material. The high density poly-fiber material naturally has some flexibility that provides unique advantages. For example, when the pump is on an upstroke, the high density poly-fiber material expands, which permits a positive seal to be created between the cup component and pump barrel. This positive seal helps to prevent solid impurities from sliding between the cup component  14  and pump barrel interior. Further, the high density poly-fiber material of the cup component  14  can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  62 , thereby helping to securely couple the cup component  14  in place over the cyclone component  12 . In this way, the cup component  14  can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the cyclone component  12  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     In another embodiment, the cup component  14  can include threading that is opposite threading on the cyclone component  12  such that the cup component  14  and cyclone component  12  can be coupled together. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7-9 , another embodiment of a cup component, hereinafter “cup component  14 A,” is shown. The cup component  14 A is similar to the cup component  14 . The cup component  14 A comprises an elongated, substantially tubular member having a north end  30 A, a south end  32 A and a longitudinal channel  34 A running there through. The cup component  14 A is adapted to receive and fit over a portion of the cyclone component  12 . Preferably, the north end  30 A of the cup component  14 A tapers inward (as shown in  FIG. 9 , for example), which helps in directing solid impurities into the interior diameter of the cup component  14 A. In this embodiment, a first segment  36 A of the channel  34 A proximate the south end  32 A has an interior diameter that is less than the interior diameter of the channel  34 A overall. In this way, when the cup component  14 A is fitted over the cyclone component  12 , the cup component  14 A can be firmly secured in place. In particular, an interior portion of the cup component  14 A can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  62 , thereby helping to securely couple the cup component  14 A in place over the cyclone component  12 . In this way, the cup component  14 A can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the cyclone component  12  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     As shown in this embodiment, a second segment  38 A of the channel  34 A can be angled toward the segment  36 A, such that a northern-most portion of the segment  38 A has an interior diameter corresponding to the interior diameter of the channel  34 A overall, while a southern-most portion of the segment  38 A has an interior diameter corresponding to the interior diameter of the segment  36 A. In another embodiment, it can be desired to configure a cup component  14 A having a consistent interior diameter from the north end  30 A to the south end  32 A. Preferably, the cup component  14 A is composed of a hardened material, such as carbide, an alloy or some other suitable material. 
     In another embodiment, the cup component  14 A can include threading that is opposite threading on the cyclone component  12  such that the cup component  14 A and cyclone component  12  can be coupled together. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 14-19 , a further embodiment of the cup component, hereinafter “cup component  50 ,” is shown. The cup component  50  can be utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation device  10  as an alternative to the cup component  14  or cup component  14 A. As seen in this embodiment, the cup component  50  includes two basic parts: a cup body  52  and a wear region  54 . The wear region  54  is adapted to be removably coupled to the cup body  52  to form the cup component  50 . In this embodiment, the wear region  54  includes a notched region  56  adapted to correspond to a notched region  58  positioned on the cup body  52 , as shown in  FIG. 17 . In this way, the wear region can be secured to the cup body  52  by inserting the wear region  54  into the cup body  52  and allowing the wear region  54  to snap and lock into place, as indicated by the arrows in  FIG. 17 . In another embodiment, threading can be provided on the cup body  52  and wear region  54  that would correspond with one another, to permit the wear region  54  to be screwed into place in the cup body  52 . 
     In this embodiment, the wear region  54  includes a leading edge  54 A. When the cup component  50  is positioned on the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , preferably, the leading edge  54 A faces northward. In one embodiment, the leading edge  54 A tapers inward (as shown in  FIGS. 15-17 , for example), which helps in directing solid impurities into the interior diameter of the cup component  50 . Preferably, the leading edge  54 A is composed of a durable elastic or composite type of material. For example, with regard to elastic material, the leading edge  54 A can be composed of various rubber compounds, such as neoprene (polychloroprene), nitrile (BUNA-N), urethane, fluoroelastomer (viton), and the like. As another example, with regard to composite material, the leading edge  54 A can be composed of various materials, such as poly-fiber, rubber-fiber, carbon-fiber, and the like. Preferably, the material utilized for the leading edge  54 A of the wear region  54  would be of a type that is capable of withstanding frictional forces and is abrasive-resistant. 
     With such an elastic or composite type of material utilized for the leading edge  54 A, a positive seal and wear area can be formed between an exterior portion of the leading edge  54 A and an interior portion of the pump barrel that will prevent solid impurities from passing southward to the pump plunger and thereby causing damage. While the wear region  54  would eventually need to be replaced at some intervals when the pump unit is repaired, the cup body  52  of the cup component  50  would not need to be replaced as frequently as the wear region  54 . The wear region  54  is preferably comprised of a durable elastic or composite material. The wear region  54  can include notches  59 , as seen in this embodiment. Notches  59  can help facilitate ease of placement of wear region  54  into the cup body  52 . In this embodiment, four notches  59  are shown and are placed equidistant from each other. It can be desired to include more than four or less than four notches  59  on wear region  54 . 
     With regard to the cup body  52 , it can be composed of a metal or some type of composite material, such as poly-fiber, rubber-fiber, carbon-fiber, and the like. An advantage to employing composite material is that it allows for more flexibility and a tighter seal as compared to metal. In this regard, a high density poly-fiber material, for example, naturally has some flexibility that provides unique advantages, as discussed above. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 48-50 , an alternative cup component  14 B is shown. The cup component  14 B includes a groove  150  that separates two portions of the cup component  14 B. In a preferred embodiment, the cup component  14 B can be made of a high density poly-fiber material. The high density poly-fiber material can naturally have some flexibility that provides unique advantages. For example, when the pump is on an upstroke, the high density poly-fiber material expands, which permits a positive seal to be created between the cup component  14 B and pump barrel. This positive seal can help prevent solid impurities from sliding between the cup component  14 B and pump barrel interior. Further, the high density poly-fiber material of the cup component  14 B can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  62 , thereby helping to securely couple the cup component  14 B in place over the cyclone component  12 . In this way, the cup component  14 B can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the cyclone component  12  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 20-22 , the ring component  16  will be described. The ring component  16  comprises a cylindrical unit that is adapted to fit over a southern portion of the cyclone component  12 , south of the cup component  14  (as seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , for example). Preferably, the ring component  16  is composed of a hardened material, such as carbide, an alloy, or some other suitable hardened material that is capable of crushing any solid impurities that do pass between the cup component  14  and the interior diameter of the barrel. In another embodiment, the ring component  16  can be coated with a material such as carbide, nickel, an alloy, or the like. In one embodiment, the ring component  16  can be comprised of carbide having a Rockwell hardness of about 87, but the ring component could have a Rockwell hardness that varies from this. The ring component  16  can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in grooves  64  of the cyclone component  12 , thereby helping to securely couple the ring component  16  in place over the cyclone component  12 . In this way, the ring component  16  can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the cyclone component  12  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 51-59 , an embodiment showing a modified ring component  16 A is provided. The ring component  16 A can be a cylindrical unit that is adapted to fit over a southern portion of the cyclone component  12 A, south of the cup component  14  (as seen in  FIG. 51 , for example). Those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the ring component  16 A can also be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein. For instance, the cyclone component  12 A shown can be replaced with the cyclone component  12  of  FIGS. 1-3 . 
     The ring component  16 A can assist in keeping solids from passing twice over the cup thereby reducing the wear and keeping the cup component  14  from premature failure. Solids can generally pass the cup as it wears and settles atop the ring component  16 A. The cup component  14  can be designed to shear in the event solids overwhelm the cup component  14 , which could cause the pump plunger to seize. The cup component  14  can allow the pumping action to continue without causing damage to the rods or barrel/pump by shearing itself away from the main body of the apparatus  10 . The sheared cup component  14  can slide up and down with the pump action once it release or un-seizes. 
     The ring component  16 A can be composed of a hardened materials described above. The modified ring component  16 A can also made of different materials as its purpose is no longer to crush solid impurities that pass between the cup component  14  and the interior diameter of the barrel. The ring component  16 A can be made of carbide and be referred herein as a carbide ring.  FIG. 51  depicts the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  having the cyclone component  12 A removed from the cup component and detached from the ring coupler component  18 , with the bottom portion of the cyclone component  12 A showing. 
     The ring component  16 A can grip to an O-ring device positioned in grooves  64  of the cyclone component  12 A, thereby helping to securely couple the ring component  16 A in place over the cyclone component  12 A. In this way, the ring component  16 A can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the cyclone component  12 A and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 52 , a side view of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  when assembled is shown. Many of the same components described above are shown therein.  FIG. 53  is a cross-section of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  of  FIG. 52 , taken along line  44 - 44 . The cross-section shows the cyclone component  12 A extending past the cup component  14  and modified ring component  16 A ending at the ring coupler component  18 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 54 , an exploded view of the portion identified by circle A shown in  FIG. 53  is provided. The ring component  16 A can have a tapered groove  162  that captures solids keeping them off the barrel which could cause barrel wear. The groove  162  can extend along an outer diameter of the ring component  16 A. The channel can be cut three hundred and sixty (360) degrees around the shaft of the evacuation apparatus  10 . 
     In the groove  162 , a number of holes or ports  160  can be placed therein. In one embodiment, three ports  160  can be placed within the groove  162  and spaced equidistant from each other. The groove  162  can accumulate solids gathered from the barrel wall and allow the solids to escape inward thru the ports  160  in the ring component  16 A. In one embodiment, the ports  160  are angled. Through the angled ports  160 , the interior flow section of the cyclone component  12 A can be accessed. The angled ports  160  can allow a venture effect that causes the solids to flow inwards into the ports  160 . 
     After the solids enter through the ports  160 , they can enter into the main flow section of the cyclone component  12 A where the solids are swept away into the flow keeping the cup component  14  and barrel and plunger from additional wear. Without this improvement, typically solids would move back and forth on the outer diameter of the cup component  14  causing cup component  14 , barrel, and plunger wear. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 55 , a bottom perspective view of the exemplary modified ring component  16 A is provided. The ring component  16 A can incorporate a top portion  164  and a bottom portion  166  separated by the groove  162 . The top portion  164  and bottom portion  166  typically incorporates an outer diameter that matches that of the evacuation apparatus  10 . The interior diameter of the portions  164  and  166  and groove  162  can have a diameter such that the cyclone component  12 A can fit there through. 
     While the groove  160 , as illustrated, includes a narrow channel, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the groove  160  can extend further towards the top portion  164  and/or bottom portion  166 . The ports  160  can also be provided in a variety of different forms. Fewer or more ports  160  can be incorporated within the groove  160 . 
       FIG. 56  is a side view of the exemplary modified ring component  16 A of  FIG. 55 . As shown and in accordance with one embodiment, the top portion  164  can have a smaller outer diameter than the bottom portion  166 . By reducing the outer diameter of the top portion  164 , the solids can be trapped below the cup component  14  and be captured in the ports  160  of the ring component  16 A. From there, the solids can be swept inward to the main flow of fluid more easily than if both the top portion  164  and bottom portion  166  had the same outer diameters. 
     In one embodiment, the top section  164  can taper inwards. Now referring to  FIG. 57 , a cross-section of the exemplary modified ring component of  FIG. 56 , taken along line  45 - 45 , is provided. The top section  164 , as shown more clearly, can incorporate the tapering towards the groove  162 . The tapering can allow the modified ring component  16 A to collect solids that flow past the cup component  14 . 
       FIG. 58  is a top view of the exemplary modified ring component  16 A of  FIG. 56 . The top portion  164  shown provides a circular shape allowing the cyclone component  12 A to fit through. Turning to  FIG. 59 , a cross-section of the exemplary modified ring component of  FIG. 56 , taken along line  46 - 46  is provided. As more clearly shown, the ports  160  can allow solids to pass through the groove  162  into the channel formed within the ring component  16 A. It should be noted that although the ring components  16  and  16 A are shown in the embodiments of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , it can be desired to have other embodiments of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  in which the ring components  16  and  16 A are omitted. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 23-26 , the ring coupler component  18  will be described. The ring coupler component  18  comprises a substantially cylindrical device having a north end  40 , south end  42 , and a longitudinal channel  44  running there between. A first threaded region  41  is included in an interior diameter portion of the ring coupler component  18  proximate the north end  40 . The threading of the threaded region  41  preferably corresponds to threaded region  23  on the cyclone component  12 . In this way, a northern portion of the ring coupler component  18  is adapted to be coupled to a southern portion of the cyclone component  12 . While in this embodiment threading is used to couple the ring coupler component  18  and cyclone component  12  together, it can be desired to employ other suitable coupling mechanisms. 
     A first shoulder  45  is positioned south of the threaded region  41 . When the ring coupler component  18  is coupled to the cyclone component  12 , the south end  22  of the cyclone component  12  can rest against the shoulder  45 . A second threaded region  43  is included in an interior diameter portion of the ring coupler component  18  proximate the south end  42 . The threading of the threaded region  43  preferably corresponds to threading on a standard pump plunger, such that a southern portion of the ring coupler component  18  can be coupled to the pump plunger. While in this embodiment threading is used for purposes of coupling the ring coupler component  18  to a pump plunger, it can be desired to employ other suitable coupling mechanisms. A second shoulder  47  is positioned north of the threaded region  43 . When the ring coupler component  18  is coupled to a pump plunger, a north end of the pump plunger can rest against the shoulder  47 . 
     In this embodiment, the ring coupler component  18  includes a groove-like portion comprising an accumulator region  46 . The accumulator region  46  includes a north shoulder  46 A and a south shoulder  46 B. Preferably, the north shoulder  46 A and south shoulder  46 B are each downwardly-tapered. Such downward tapering helps to facilitate the trapping of solid impurities, thereby preventing them from sliding further southward in the direction of the pump plunger. Also in this embodiment, the ring coupler component  18  includes grooves  48  and  49 . The grooves  48  and  49  are positioned southward of the accumulator region  46  and are each adapted to receive a seal  70  (shown in  FIGS. 1-3  and  27 - 29 ). In this embodiment, two grooves  48  and  49  and two seals are employed. However, it would be possible to configure a ring coupler component  18  having more than two or less than two grooves  48  and  49  and seals  70 . The ring coupler component  18  can be composed of a hardened material, such as carbide, an alloy or some other suitable material. 
     With respect to the seals  70 , preferably, they are composed of a durable plastic or some other suitable material capable of withstanding conditions present in typical well environments. In one embodiment, it can be desired to utilize a pressure actuated ring seal called the Darcova XT®, sold by Darcova, Inc. The seals  70  assist in preventing solid impurities from travelling further southward toward the pump plunger. In this embodiment, a first seal  70 , when positioned in groove  49 , aligns flush with the overall outer diameter of the ring coupler component  18 . Preferably, an area of the ring coupler component  18  north of the groove  48  has in outer diameter that is slightly smaller than an overall outer diameter of the ring coupler component  18 . In this way, when a second seal  70  is positioned in groove  48 , a lip  72  of the seal  70  protrudes slightly from the ring coupler component  18 . Preferably, the lip  72  is downwardly tapered, as shown in detail in  FIG. 29 . In this way, the lip  72  is adapted to trap solid impurities, thereby helping to prevent them from sliding past seal  70  positioned in groove  48  and travelling further southward in the direction of the pump plunger. In particular, the lip  72  can trap solid impurities that have slid past the accumulator region  46 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 33-40 , a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  consistent with an embodiment of the present application is shown. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  is similar to the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , but includes unique features such that it is configured for use with a pumping system employing a hollow valve rod. For individual components of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  that are the same as components on the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , like numbers are used. 
     Beginning from the north end, the main components of this embodiment of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , which has a substantially cylindrical external configuration, include the following: (a) a hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , (b) a cup component  14 , (c) a ring component  16 , and (d) a ring coupler component  18 . The overall length of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  can range from approximately one foot to six feet or more. However, it should be clearly understood that substantial benefit could be derived from a cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  having a length that deviates from these dimensions, even substantially, in either direction. For certain embodiments, it can be desired to extend the overall length of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  by providing more than one coupler pieces, such as the ring coupler component  18  or the like, which can be adapted to be coupled together end-to-end. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  is adapted to be coupled, at a northern-most portion thereof, to a hollow valve rod, and at a southern-most portion thereof, to a pump plunger, as further discussed below. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 37-39 , the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  will be described. In this embodiment, the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  is a one-piece structure comprising a substantially elongated member having a north end  114 , south end  116 , head  118 , neck  120 , and base  128  having a plurality of openings  130 . A channel  124  runs longitudinally through the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  and is adapted to communicate with channel  44  in the ring coupler component  18 , allowing passage of fluid there through. The hollow valve rod coupler component  112  is adapted to be coupled, at its north end  114 , to a hollow valve rod. External threading  126 , as shown in  FIG. 33 , can be included for purposes of coupling the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  to the hollow valve rod. Alternatively, threading can be included in the interior diameter of a northern portion of the head  118 , for this purpose. 
     The head  118  of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  includes grooves  131  and  132  defining shoulders  134  and  136 , respectively. While in this embodiment two grooves  131  and  132  are included in head  118 , it can be desired to fashion a hollow valve rod coupler component  112  having more than two or less than two grooves  131  and  132 . The grooves  131  and  132  are each adapted to receive a seal  70  (shown in  FIGS. 27-29  and  33 - 36 , for example). In this embodiment, the head  118  of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  further includes an accumulator region  138 . The accumulator region  138  includes a lip  140 . Preferably, the lip  140  is downwardly-tapered. Such downward tapering helps to facilitate the trapping of solid impurities, thereby preventing them from sliding further southward in the direction of the pump plunger. With respect to grooves  131  and  132 , these are positioned southward of the accumulator region  138 . 
     With respect to the seals  70 , preferably, they are composed of a durable plastic or some other suitable material capable of withstanding conditions present in typical well environments. In one embodiment, it can be desired to utilize a pressure actuated ring seal called the Darcova XT®, sold by Darcova, Inc. The seals  70  assist in preventing solid impurities from travelling further southward toward the pump plunger. In this embodiment, a first seal  70 , when positioned in groove  132 , aligns flush with an outer diameter of the head  118 . Preferably, an area of the head  118  north of the groove  131  has in outer diameter that is slightly smaller than an outer diameter directly south of groove  131 . In this way, when a second seal  70  is positioned in groove  131 , a lip  72  of the seal  70  protrudes slightly from the head  118 . Preferably, the lip  72  is downwardly tapered, as shown in detail in  FIG. 29 . In this way, the lip  72  is adapted to trap solid impurities, thereby helping to prevent them from sliding past seal  70  positioned in groove  131  and travelling further southward in the direction of the pump plunger. The head  118  further includes a leading shoulder  138 . The leading shoulder  138  preferably has a downwardly tapered lip  140 . In this way, the lip  140  is adapted to trap solid impurities. Solid impurities that slide past the lip  140  can be trapped by lip  72  on seal  70  positioned in groove  131 . 
     The neck  120 , in this embodiment, has an overall outer diameter that is less than the outer diameter of a portion of the head  118  positioned north of the neck  120 . The neck  120  extends from a southern portion of the head  118  to a northern portion of the base  122 . South of the neck  120  is the base  122 , which includes the plurality of openings  130 . In this embodiment, three openings are included in the base  122 . However, it can be desired to configure a hollow valve rod coupler component  112  having more than three or less than three openings  130 . In one embodiment, the openings are off-set from a center of longitudinal channel  124 , as best seen in  FIGS. 39 and 42 . In this way, the openings  130  assist in facilitating the rotation of fluid with solids during pumping operations. Thus, as fluid enters the openings  130 , the fluid is caused to spin by the angled design of the openings  130  and is directed away from the pump barrel as it travels northward through the pumping system. In this embodiment, and as seen in  FIG. 42 , the openings  130  extend toward longitudinal channel  124  on an angle. In this embodiment, the openings  130  are spaced equidistant from each other. 
     The base  122 , in this embodiment, includes grooves  142  and  144 , and shoulder  146 , each positioned south of the openings  130  on the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . In this embodiment, one groove  142  and two grooves  144  are utilized, but it should be noted that it would be possible to vary the number of grooves  142  and  144 , as desired. The grooves  142  and  144  are each adapted to receive an O-ring device  60  (as shown in  FIGS. 30-32 ). An O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  142  can be useful for helping to secure and align the cup component  14  in position over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . An O-ring device  60  (or devices  60 ) positioned in grooves  144  can be useful for helping to secure and align the ring component  16  in position over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . 
     Preferably, the south end  116  of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  includes a threaded region  148 , such that the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  can be coupled to the ring coupler component  18 , as further discussed below. 
     The hollow valve rod coupler component  112  is preferably adapted to be fitted in the cup component  14 , as further discussed below. In this embodiment, when the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  is positioned in the cup component  14 , the head  118  and a portion of the neck  120  protrude from a northern portion of the cup component  14 , while threaded region  148  is exposed below a southern portion of the cup component  14 . In a preferred embodiment, when an O-ring device  60  is positioned in groove  142 , the cup component  14  can be pushed into position over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . The O-ring device  60  will help to align the cup component  14  over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , so that the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  is substantially centered within the cup component  14 . In another embodiment, the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  can include threading north of its south end  116 , such that the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  can be coupled to the cup component  14 , as further discussed below. Preferably, the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  is composed of a hardened material, such as carbide, an alloy or some other suitable material. 
     With respect to the cup component  14  utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , it is the same as the cup component  14  utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , previously discussed in detail, above, and as shown in  FIGS. 10-13 . The discussion above concerning the cup component  14  is hereby incorporated herein by reference, to the extent not repeated below. When utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , the cup component  14  is adapted to receive and fit over a portion of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  (as seen in  FIGS. 33-36 ). Preferably, the north end  30  of the cup component  14  tapers inward (as shown in  FIG. 13 , for example), which helps in directing solid impurities into the interior diameter of the cup component  14 . In the embodiment of the cup component  14  shown in  FIGS. 10-13 , a first segment  36  of the channel  34  proximate the south end  32  has an interior diameter that is less than the interior diameter of the channel  34  overall. In this way, when the cup component  14  is fitted over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , the cup component  14  can be firmly secured in place. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the cup component  14  is comprised of a high density poly-fiber material. The high density poly-fiber material naturally has some flexibility that provides unique advantages. For example, when the pump is on an upstroke, the high density poly-fiber material expands, which permits a positive seal to be created between the cup component and pump barrel. This positive seal helps to prevent solid impurities from sliding between the cup component  14  and pump barrel interior. Further, the high density poly-fiber material of the cup component  14  can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  142 , thereby helping to securely couple the cup component  14  in place over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . In this way, the cup component  14  can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     In another embodiment, the cup component  14  can include threading that is opposite threading on the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  such that the cup component  14  and hollow valve rod coupler component  112  can be coupled together. 
     The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  can also be utilized with the cup component  14 A (discussed in detail above and shown in  FIGS. 7-9 ), as an alternative to cup component  14 . The discussion above concerning the cup component  14 A is hereby incorporated herein by reference, to the extent not repeated below. The cup component  14 A is adapted to receive and fit over a portion of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . Preferably, the north end  30 A of the cup component  14 A tapers inward (as shown in  FIG. 9 , for example), which helps in directing solid impurities into the interior diameter of the cup component  14 A. In this embodiment, a first segment  36 A of the channel  34 A proximate the south end  32 A has an interior diameter that is less than the interior diameter of the channel  34 A overall. In this way, when the cup component  14 A is fitted over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , the cup component  14 A can be firmly secured in place. In particular, an interior portion of the cup component  14 A can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in groove  142 , thereby helping to securely couple the cup component  14 A in place over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . In this way, the cup component  14 A can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     In another embodiment, the cup component  14 A can include threading that is opposite threading on the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  such that the cup component  14 A and hollow valve rod coupler component  112  can be coupled together. 
     The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  can also be utilized with the cup component  50  (discussed in detail above and shown in  FIGS. 14-19 ), as an alternative to cup component  14 . The discussion above concerning the cup component  50  is hereby incorporated herein by reference, to the extent not repeated below. When the cup component  50  is positioned on the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , preferably, the leading edge  54 A faces northward. In one embodiment, the leading edge  54 A tapers inward (as shown in  FIGS. 15-17 , for example), which helps in directing solid impurities into the interior diameter of the cup component  50 . 
     With respect to the ring component  16  utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , it is the same as the ring component  16  utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , previously discussed in detail, above, and as shown in  FIGS. 20-22 . The discussion above concerning the ring component  16  is hereby incorporated herein by reference, to the extent not repeated below. The ring component  16  comprises a cylindrical unit that is adapted to fit over a southern portion of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , south of the cup component  14  (as seen in  FIGS. 33-35 , for example). The ring component  16  can grip to an O-ring device  60  positioned in grooves  144  of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , thereby helping to securely couple the ring component  16  in place over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . In this way, the ring component  16  can be “floating” and capable of self-adjusting and becoming substantially centered over the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  and, in turn, substantially centered when positioned at various heights within a pump barrel, as would occur during pumping operations. 
     It should be noted that although the ring component  16  is shown in the embodiment of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  of  FIGS. 33-36 , it can be desired to have other embodiments of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  in which the ring component  16  is omitted. 
     With respect to the ring coupler component  18  utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , it is the same as the ring coupler component  18  utilized with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , previously discussed in detail, above, and as shown in  FIGS. 23-26 . The discussion above concerning the ring component  16  is hereby incorporated herein by reference, to the extent not repeated below. A first threaded region  41  is included in an interior diameter portion of the ring coupler component  18  proximate the north end  40 . The threading of the threaded region  41  preferably corresponds to threaded region  148  on the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . In this way, a northern portion of the ring coupler component  18  is adapted to be coupled to a southern portion of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 . While in this embodiment threading is used to couple the ring coupler component  18  and hollow valve rod coupler component  112  together, it can be desired to employ other suitable coupling mechanisms. 
     A first shoulder  45  is positioned south of the threaded region  41 . When the ring coupler component  18  is coupled to the hollow valve rod coupler component  112 , the south end  116  of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  can rest against the shoulder  45 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 60-63 , an exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  for use with tubing pumps, consistent with an embodiment of the present application, is provided. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  is similar to those described above, but includes unique features such that it is configured for use with a tubing pump system. For similar components of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  like numbers are used. 
     The main components of this embodiment of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , which has a substantially cylindrical external configuration, can include the following: (a) a cyclone component  12 A having flutes  29 A or cyclone component  12  with flutes  29  ( b ) a cup component  14 , (c) a ring component  16 , and (d) a ring coupler component  18 . The overall length of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  can range from approximately one foot to six feet or more. The cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  is adapted to be coupled, at a northern-most portion thereof, to a sucker rod, and at a southern-most portion thereof, to a pump plunger. 
     Coupled to the top portion of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  is a top plunger adapter  170  as shown in  FIG. 61 . The top plunger adapter  170  can provide versatility to the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 . In one embodiment, the adapter  170  can include external threading. The external threading can be used to connect the sucker rod to the adapter  170  for a tight fit. In one embodiment, the threading can be located on the sucker rod. External or internal threading can be provided on the adapter  170  to secure the sucker rod. Known to those skilled in the relevant art, numerous other types of locking mechanisms can be used by the adapter  170 , sucker rod, or both. 
       FIG. 63  is a cross-section of the exemplary cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  of  FIG. 62 , taken along line  47 - 47 . The tubing pump design utilizes the well tubing for the barrel; therefore there is no need to have an additional barrel. Beforehand, an insert pump and a hollow valve rod were described. The insert pump included female threading  21  with the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  that allowed a valve rod to be attached. The hollow valve rod included the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100  with the male external threading  126  that had a pathway there through. In the embodiment now provided, the top plunger adapter  170  includes male external threading with no pathway there through to allow a sucker rod connector to be attached. As shown, the adapter  170  is solid. This makes the top plunger adapter  170  unique in that it can be functional on all or most types of down-hole rod pumps. 
     STATEMENT OF OPERATION 
     Before assembling the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  or cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  100 , it is preferred to apply an antiseize lubricant to all external threads, in order to prevent the various components of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  or  100  from seizing together. As an example, McMaster-Carr P/N 1820K1 SST antiseize lubricant can be used. 
     In typical prior art pumping systems, when pumping operations have stopped, solid impurities naturally settle into the space between the plunger and the barrel. When the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  or  100  of the present application is coupled to a pump plunger, after pumping operations have stopped, solid impurities will settle into the cup component  14  (or  14 A or  50 ), instead of travelling past it and around the plunger, as is typical in standard prior art designs. Upon restarting of the pump the preferred high density poly-fiber material comprising the cup component  14  will load with pressure and will expand on the upstroke, flaring outward. It will then experience little, if any, slippage because the cup component  14  will expand against the interior diameter of the barrel. In this way, a positive seal will be created between the barrel and cup component  14 . As a result, on the upstroke, solid impurities that would normally slip southward will be swept inward and away from the inside surface of the barrel and will be redirected to the cup component  14 , where they will accumulate. The design of the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  or  100  hydraulically forces residual solid impurities inwardly to the interior diameter of the plunger. As a result, stuck plungers and excessive barrel damage and wear can be avoided. 
     On the downstroke, the high density poly-fiber material of the cup component  14  will retract. As this occurs, the design of the flutes  29  in the cyclone component  12  and the openings  130  in the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  causes the fluid that is being pumped and any solid impurities entrained therein to constantly rotate. This rotation permits the pump barrel and plunger to wear more evenly, resulting in longer pump life and a more cost efficient pump assembly. The solid impurities that are entrained in the pumped fluid are then flushed away and enter the produced well stream. 
     When the pump is not operational, the settling solid impurities are redirected into the cup component  14 , through the flutes  29  of the cyclone component  12  or the openings  130  of the hollow valve rod coupler component  112  and inward into the interior diameter of the pump plunger. This keeps any concentration of solid impurities from accumulating and wedging between the outer diameter of the plunger and the pump barrel, thereby reducing the possibility of plunger sticking and excessive barrel wear. 
     Any solids that do pass between the cup component  14  and the interior diameter of the barrel and travel southward will come into contact with the ring component  16 . Due to the hardness of the ring component  16 , any solid impurities that do come into contact with it will be crushed. When the solid impurities are crushed, the remnants thereof will pass by the plunger without damaging it. 
     The high density poly-fiber material of the cup component  14  will eventually experience wear as a result of use, and over time will not entrap all solid impurities. Thus, solids that escape past the cup component  14  will then begin to accumulate in the accumulator region  46  of the ring coupler component  18 . In this way, the accumulator region  46  of the ring coupler component  18  acts as a secondary containment area to help prevent solid impurities from travelling further southward and into the area of the plunger. 
     It should be noted that the cup component  14 , ring component  16 , and seals  70  can all be replaced when they are no longer efficient as a result of wear and use. Replacement of these items on the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10  or  100  can be much more cost efficient overall as opposed to replacing an entire pump plunger system, as would be required with prior art pump plunger systems. 
     When incorporating the modified ring component  16 A of  FIGS. 51-59  into the cyclonic debris evacuation apparatus  10 , solids can be prevented from passing twice over the cup component  14  to reduce its wear and keep the cup component  14  from premature failure. The removal of the solids can take place on the same upstroke and downstroke described above. On the upstroke, the solids can pass the cup component  14  as it wears and settles atop the ring component  16 A. The ring component  16 A can have a taper groove that captures the solids keeping them off the barrel which could cause barrel wear. 
     On the down stroke of the pump, and with the addition of the groove  162  and ports  160  in the ring component  16 A, solids can be accumulated away from the barrel wall allowing them to escape inward thru the ports  160  where they can flow into the interior flow section of the main body. The solids can be swept away into the flow keeping the cup component  14 , barrel, and plunger from additional wear. 
     The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled in the relevant art to practice the various embodiments described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the relevant art, and generic principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown and described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various embodiments described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.