Patent Description:
High pressure reciprocating pumps are often used to deliver high pressure fluids during earth drilling operations. Generally, a reciprocating pump includes a power end and a fluid end. The power end can generate forces sufficient to cause the fluid end to deliver high pressure fluids to earth drilling operations. For example, the power end includes a crankshaft that drives a plurality of reciprocating plungers or pistons near or within the fluid end to pump fluid at high pressure. Thus, the power end must be securely and stably coupled to the fluid end.

<CIT> discloses a flangeless fluid end comprising a fluid end body releasably attached to a connect plate. The connect plate is attached to a power source using stay rods.

The present application relates to techniques for mounting a fluid end to a power end. According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a reciprocating pump as recited in claim <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the first set of couplers are bolts. Thus, the mount plate can still utilize traditional mounting points on a power end. Additionally or alternatively, the second set of couplers may be tie rods (sometimes referred to as stay rods). The tie rods may extend to and/or through the fluid end and, thus, may support the fluid end and the power end in the spaced relationship. For example, a sleeve of a tie rod may extend between the fluid end and the mount plate to define the spaced relationship.

In some embodiments, the mount plate further comprises a third set of openings configured to receive pony rods of the power end. In many embodiments, each opening of the third set of openings receives a single pony rod; however, the openings of the third set of openings can be connected (e.g., to form a continuous slot) or discrete (e.g., independent openings). Moreover, in at least some instances, the first set of openings are disposed exteriorly of the third set of openings. For example, the first set of openings may surround the third set of openings so that couplers extending through the first set of openings create a structurally sound cage around the third set of openings. Still further, in some instances, the second set of openings are also disposed exteriorly of the first set of openings. Alternatively, the first set of openings may be disposed exteriorly of the second set of openings.

Among other advantages, different arrangements of second openings may allow a single power end to operate with different fluid ends by utilizing different mount plates. That is, the mount plate may enhance the compatibility of a power end so that, for example, a preexisting power end can be used with new fluid ends having new geometries. That said, in yet further embodiments, the fluid end has receivers in a first alignment and the mount plate further comprises a fourth set of openings configured to connect the power end to a second fluid end with receivers in a second alignment. Thus, a single mount plate may allow multiple fluid ends to connect to (and be operational with) a single power end.

Still further, in some instances, the fluid end comprises receivers for the second set of couplers and the receivers comprise through holes that extend from a front of a casing of the fluid end to a back of the casing. Thus, the fluid end may be connected to a power end without tightening connections disposed on a side of a fluid end that is facing the power end (e.g., on a side of the fluid end that houses a reciprocation bore). Additionally or alternatively, the front of the power end may include receivers for the first set of couplers and the receivers may comprise threaded openings. Thus, connections between the mount plate and power end may be completed by threading couplers into the mount plate towards the power end. Moreover, in some embodiments, the fluid end has a removable stuffing box and the spaced relationship between the fluid end and the power end provides access to the stuffing box without decoupling the first set of couplers from the power end or the mount plate and/or without decoupling the second set of couplers from the mount plate or the fluid end. Thus, a stuffing box can be removed and/or serviced quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime for the pump.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a fluid end for a reciprocating pump as recited in claim <NUM>. The foregoing advantages and features will become evident in view of the drawings and detailed description.

To complete the description and in order to provide for a better understanding of the present application, a set of drawings is provided. The drawings form an integral part of the description and illustrate embodiments of the present application, which should not be interpreted as restricting the scope of the invention, but just as examples.

Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure.

The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is given solely for the purpose of describing the broad principles of the invention. Embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example, with reference to the above-mentioned drawings showing elements and results according to the present invention.

Generally, the present application is directed to a mount plate for a reciprocating pump. The mount plate sits flush against, or at least proximate to, a front of a power end and provides connection points at which different types of fluid ends may be coupled to the power end (with the power end being coupled to one fluid end at any given time). Thus, the size, configuration, and/or types of fluid ends utilized with a specific power end will not be limited by a mounting configuration integrated into a power end. Moreover, with the mount plate presented herein, a coupling between the power end and the fluid end will be spaced apart from the fluid end, creating an elongated cradle through which at least a reciprocation bore (e.g., a plunger bore) of a fluid end may be accessed. Consequently, an end user may be able to service the reciprocation bore and/or service/replace components installed within the reciprocation bore (and/or other bores of a fluid end) without fully disconnecting the fluid end from the power end. This elongated cradle also creates space within which a removable stuffing box and/or other such components can be mounted to the fluid end. Consequently, if the stuffing box and/or components installed in the stuffing box is/are damaged or worn, the stuffing box and/or components can be quickly replaced or repaired, minimizing downtime for the pump.

Referring to <FIG>, a prior art reciprocating pump <NUM> is illustrated. The reciprocating pump <NUM> includes a power end <NUM> and a fluid end <NUM>. The power end <NUM> includes a crankshaft <NUM> that drives a plurality of reciprocating plungers or pistons (generally referred to as "reciprocating elements") within the fluid end <NUM> to pump fluid at high pressure (e.g., to cause the fluid end <NUM> to deliver high pressure fluids to earth drilling operations). For example, the power end <NUM> may be configured to support hydraulic fracturing (i.e., fracking) operations, where fracking liquid (e.g., a mixture of water and sand) is injected into rock formations at high pressures to allow natural oil and gas to be extracted from the rock formations. However, to be clear, this example is not intended to be limiting and the present application may be applicable to both fracking and drilling operations. At the same time, the present invention may also offer some specific advantages for hydraulic fracturing, which may be noted herein where applicable.

In any case, often, the reciprocating pump <NUM> may be quite large and may, for example, be supported by a semi-tractor truck ("semi") that can move the reciprocating pump <NUM> to and from a well. Specifically, in some instances, a semi may move the reciprocating pump <NUM> off a well when the reciprocating pump <NUM> requires maintenance. However, a reciprocating pump <NUM> is typically moved off a well only when a replacement pump (and an associated semi) is available to move into place at the well, which may be rare. Thus, often, the reciprocating pump is taken offline at a well and maintenance is performed while the reciprocating pump <NUM> remains on the well. If not for this maintenance, the reciprocating pump <NUM> could operate continuously to extract natural oil and gas (or conduct any other operation). Consequently, any improvements that extend the lifespan of components of the reciprocating pump <NUM>, extend the time between maintenance operations (i.e., between downtime), and/or minimize the time needed to complete maintenance operations (minimizing downtime) are highly desirable.

Still referring to <FIG>, but now in combination with <FIG>, the reciprocating pump <NUM> pumps fluid into and out of pumping chambers <NUM>. <FIG> shows a side, cross-sectional view of reciprocating pump <NUM> taken along a central axis <NUM> of one of the reciprocating elements <NUM> included in reciprocating pump <NUM>. Thus, <FIG> depicts a single pumping chamber <NUM>. However, it should be understood that a fluid end <NUM> can include multiple pumping chambers <NUM> arranged side-by-side. In fact, in at least some embodiments (e.g., the embodiment of <FIG>), a casing <NUM> of the fluid end <NUM> forms a plurality of pumping chambers <NUM> and each chamber <NUM> includes a reciprocating element <NUM> that reciprocates within the casing <NUM>. However, side-by-side pumping chambers <NUM> need not be defined by a single casing <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid end <NUM> may be modular and different casing segments may house one or more pumping chambers <NUM>. In any case, the one or more pumping chambers <NUM> are arranged side-by-side so that corresponding conduits are positioned adjacent each other and generate substantially parallel pumping action. Specifically, with each stroke of the reciprocating element <NUM>, low pressure fluid is drawn into the pumping chamber <NUM> and high pressure fluid is discharged. But, often, the fluid within the pumping chamber <NUM> contains abrasive material (i.e., "debris") that can damage seals formed in the reciprocating pump <NUM>, such as the "packing seals" surrounding a reciprocating element <NUM> of a fracking fluid end, creating a need for continued maintenance.

In various embodiments, the fluid end <NUM> may be shaped differently and/or have different features, but may still generally perform the same functions, define similar structures, and house similar components. For example, while fluid end <NUM> includes a first bore <NUM> that intersects an inlet bore <NUM> and an outlet bore <NUM> at skewed angles, other fluid ends may include any number of bores arranged along any desired angle or angles, for example, to intersect bore <NUM> (and/or an access bore) substantially orthogonally and/or so that two or more bores are substantially coaxial. Generally, bores <NUM> and <NUM>, as well as any other bores (i.e., segments, conduits, etc.), may intersect to form a pumping chamber <NUM>, may be cylindrical or non-cylindrical, and may define openings at an external surface <NUM> of the casing <NUM>. Additionally, bores <NUM> and <NUM>, as well as any other bores (i.e., segments, conduits, etc.), may receive various components or structures, such as sealing assemblies or components thereof.

In the depicted embodiment, inlet bore <NUM> defines a fluid path through the fluid end <NUM> that connects the pumping chamber to a piping system <NUM> delivering fluid to the fluid end <NUM>. Meanwhile, outlet bore <NUM> allows compressed fluid to exit the fluid end <NUM>. Thus, in operation, bores <NUM> and <NUM> may include valve components <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, (e.g., one-way valves) that allow bores <NUM> and <NUM> to selectively open and deliver a fluid through the fluid end <NUM>. Typically, valve components <NUM> in the inlet bore <NUM> may be secured therein by a piping system <NUM> (see <FIG>). Meanwhile valve components <NUM> in outlet bore <NUM> may be secured therein by a closure assembly <NUM> that, in the prior art example illustrated in <FIG>, is removably coupled to the fluid end <NUM> via threads.

In operation, fluid may enter fluid end <NUM> via outer openings of inlet bores <NUM> and exit fluid end <NUM> via outer openings of outlet bores <NUM>. More specifically, fluid may enter inlet bores <NUM> via pipes of piping system <NUM>, flow through pumping chamber <NUM> (due to reciprocation of a reciprocating elements202), and then flows through outlet bores <NUM> into a channel <NUM> (see <FIG>). However, piping system <NUM> and channel <NUM> are merely example conduits and, in various embodiments, fluid end <NUM> may receive and discharge fluid via any number of pipes and/or conduits, along pathways of any desirable size or shape.

Meanwhile, each of bores <NUM> defines, at least in part, a cylinder for reciprocating elements <NUM>, and/or connects the casing <NUM> to a cylinder for reciprocating elements <NUM>. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, a casing segment <NUM> houses a packing assembly <NUM> configured to seal against a reciprocating element <NUM> disposed interiorly of the packing assembly <NUM>. Reciprocation of a reciprocating element <NUM> in or adjacent to bore <NUM>, which may be referred to as a reciprocation bore (or, for fracking applications, a plunger bore), draws fluid into the pumping chamber <NUM> via inlet bore <NUM> and pumps the fluid out of the pumping chamber <NUM> via outlet bore <NUM>. However, over time, the packing assembly <NUM> will wear and/or fail, and thus, must be accessed for maintenance and/or replacement. Other components, such as valve components <NUM> and/or <NUM>, or the fluid end casing <NUM> itself may also wear and/or fail and require repair or replacement over time. To help provide access to these parts and/or the pumping chamber, some fluid ends have access bores that are often aligned with (and sometimes coaxial with) the reciprocating bore <NUM>. Other fluid ends needs not include access bore and, thus, such an access bore is not illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Regardless of whether the fluid end includes an access bore, the packing assembly <NUM> typically needs to be replaced from an outer opening of bore <NUM> (i.e., a side of bore <NUM> aligned with the external surface <NUM> of the casing <NUM>). At the same time, to operate properly, the fluid end <NUM> must be securely and stably coupled to the power end <NUM>. Thus, often, with prior art reciprocating pumps like reciprocating pump <NUM>, the fluid end <NUM> is directly coupled to the power end <NUM> with relatively short couplers <NUM> and at least a portion of the reciprocating pump <NUM> must be disassembled to access bore <NUM>, e.g., to replace packing assembly <NUM>.

Now turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the depicted prior art reciprocating pump <NUM>, couplers <NUM> (e.g., tie rods, which are sometimes referred to as stay rods) are threaded to a nose plate <NUM> of a crosshead assembly <NUM> of the power end <NUM> to position the fluid end <NUM> in close proximity to the power end <NUM>. This limits the overall size of the cradle <NUM> (i.e., the space between the fluid end <NUM> and the power end <NUM>, in which a plunger or piston may reciprocate), while also limiting the amount of open space available in the cradle <NUM>. Thus, the power end <NUM> might need to be fully disconnected from the fluid end <NUM> to create the space needed to service the fluid end <NUM>. But, at the same time, repeatedly connecting and disconnecting the threaded couplers <NUM> and the nose plate <NUM> (or from threaded couplers formed on any other fixed or irremovably portion of a power end) may strip the couplers <NUM> and require replacement of couplers <NUM>.

Moreover, since couplers <NUM> connect directly to the nose plate <NUM>, the power end <NUM> may only be able to operate with fluid ends specifically designed to receive couplers <NUM> in the arrangement dictated by nose plate <NUM>. In the prior art power end <NUM>, this nose plate is welded or otherwise irremovably coupled to a crosshead frame <NUM> of a crosshead assembly <NUM> of the power end <NUM>. That is, the nose plate <NUM> is integrated into or formed with the power end <NUM>. Thus, the power end <NUM> may only be operable with fluid ends that include coupling features that match the orientation of coupling features included on nose plate <NUM>. At the same time, the position of the nose plate <NUM> is not adjustable or manipulable because the irremovable connection/integration of the nose plate <NUM> into the power end <NUM> allows the nose plate <NUM> to withstand extremely high stresses imparted thereto during generation of pumping power by the power end <NUM>. That said, in other prior art power ends, couplers <NUM> might connect directly into another part of portion of a power end that is able to withstand these high stresses (e.g., into a frame portion), but these coupling points are typically fixed on and/or irremovable from the power end <NUM>. Either way, a power end <NUM> that directly receives couplers connecting the power end <NUM> to a fluid end <NUM> may have limited compatibility across different fluid ends.

More specifically, with the prior art power end <NUM>, the locations at which a fluid end <NUM> may be coupled to the power end <NUM> are fixed and/or preset by a set of receptacles <NUM>. In this particular prior art power end 102the nose plate <NUM> defines the locations of receptacles <NUM> for the power end <NUM> (which is positioned at and/or generally defines a front of the power end <NUM>). However, in other embodiments, receptacles <NUM> could be included in any part or portion of a power end. That is, the power end <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> that extends from a front <NUM> to a back <NUM> and the receptacles <NUM> may generally be included in the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>. Receptacles <NUM> can be seen clearly in <FIG>, which shows the power end <NUM> disconnected from the fluid end <NUM>, e.g., during maintenance of the packing assembly <NUM> included in the fluid end <NUM>. <FIG> also clearly shows how, in this particular embodiment, the nose plate <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM> and also extends from a back surface <NUM> to a front surface <NUM>.

Generally, in prior art power ends that include a nose plate <NUM>, the nose plate <NUM> is installed or formed in the power end <NUM> by forming the nose plate <NUM> with the frame <NUM>, irremovably welding the nose plate <NUM> to the frame <NUM>, or otherwise irremovably coupling the nose plate <NUM> to the frame <NUM>. Once installed, the first end <NUM> of the nose plate <NUM> is positioned proximate a first side <NUM> of the frame <NUM> of the power end <NUM> (e.g., aligned with a housing for a main roller and pinion) and the second end <NUM> of the nose plate <NUM> is positioned proximate a second side <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG>) of the frame <NUM> (e.g., aligned with a housing for a main roller and pinion). Meanwhile, the back surface <NUM> of the nose plate <NUM> faces and/or defines the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>. In fact, in some instances, the nose plate <NUM> encloses a crosshead frame <NUM> of the crosshead assembly <NUM> (but does not necessarily do so in all power ends, e.g., see <FIG>).

In the depicted embodiment, the receptacles <NUM> extend into the nose plate <NUM> from the front surface <NUM> and are generally disposed around pony rod holes <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the receptacles <NUM> need not be positioned as such (e.g., see <FIG>). In any case, the receptacles <NUM> may be threaded so that a threaded coupler <NUM> can be secured directly therein. Still further, in some instances, receptacles <NUM> need not extend through back surface <NUM>, which may prevent couplers <NUM> from extending into the crosshead assembly <NUM> and interfering with operations of the crosshead assembly <NUM> and/or allowing contaminants into the crosshead assembly <NUM>. However, other embodiments might include receptacles <NUM> that are through holes.

Still referring to <FIG> and <FIG> , in the prior art reciprocating pump <NUM> - and in most high pressure reciprocating pumps - the crosshead frame <NUM> is a part of a crosshead assembly <NUM> that converts rotational motion of the crankshaft <NUM> into linear, reciprocating motion of a pony rod <NUM>. More specifically, the crosshead assembly <NUM> includes a connecting rod <NUM>, a crosshead <NUM>, and a pony rod <NUM>. The crosshead <NUM> includes a connector <NUM> disposed within a crosshead frame <NUM> and the connecting rod <NUM> extends from the crankshaft <NUM> to the connector <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is configured to move linearly within the crosshead frame <NUM> and opposite ends of the connecting rod <NUM> are configured to travel with the crankshaft <NUM> and the connector <NUM>.

Thus, as the connecting rod <NUM> rotates with the crankshaft <NUM>, it reciprocates the connector <NUM> within the crosshead frame <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is also connected to a back side <NUM> of the pony rod <NUM> so that the pony rod <NUM> reciprocates with the connector <NUM>. Meanwhile, a front side <NUM> of the pony rod <NUM> can be coupled to a reciprocating element <NUM> (e.g., a plunger), such as via a clamp <NUM> (see <FIG>), to drive reciprocating motion of the reciprocating element <NUM> that pumps fluid through the fluid end <NUM>. Notably, during this action, the pony rod <NUM> and/or the crosshead <NUM> exert forces on the front <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, which in the specific embodiment depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, is defined, at least in part, by nose plate <NUM>. These forces stress the frame <NUM> and/or the nose plate <NUM> (and potentially the crosshead frame <NUM>). Thus, as mentioned, in embodiments where a nose plate <NUM> defines at least a portion of the front <NUM> of a frame <NUM>, the nose plate <NUM> is usually irremovably coupled to the crosshead frame <NUM> to remain structurally sound during operation of the reciprocating pump <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, a front <NUM> of frame <NUM> may be irremovably coupled to other portions of an overall frame for the power end <NUM>.

Now turning to <FIG>, and <FIG>, the present application improves the compatibility and serviceability of a reciprocating pump <NUM> by coupling a fluid end <NUM> to the front <NUM> of the power end <NUM> via a mount plate <NUM>. <FIG>, and <FIG> depict perspective, front, and sectional views, respectively, of reciprocating pump <NUM>. Notably, in these embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the present application, the mount plate <NUM> is depicted with the prior art power end <NUM>. This is not intended to be limiting in any way; instead, the power end <NUM> is one example power end with which the mount plate <NUM> may be used. In fact, if anything, mount plate <NUM> is illustrated with power end <NUM> to illustrate how mount plate <NUM> may expand the compatibility of prior art power ends. That said, it should be also understood that the techniques presented herein may be embodied as a new power end that includes mount plate <NUM>.

In the depicted embodiment, the mount plate <NUM> is positioned adjacent (i.e., abutting) the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>; however, in other embodiments, the mount plate <NUM> may be positioned proximate the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> with some space therebetween (e.g., six inches or less). In either case, the mount plate <NUM> expands the options for connecting the fluid end <NUM> to the power end <NUM>. Additionally, the mount plate <NUM> allows for expansion of the cradle <NUM>, both longitudinally (i.e., the direction between the power end <NUM> and the fluid end <NUM>), laterally (i.e., a direction that extends parallel to a distance between sides <NUM> and <NUM> of the power end <NUM>), and/or radially (i.e., both laterally and in a height direction that extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal and lateral directions). This is because a first set of couplers <NUM> extend through the mount plate <NUM> in a first direction (towards the power end <NUM>) to couple the mount plate <NUM> to the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., via nose plate <NUM>) while a second set of couplers <NUM> extend through the mount plate <NUM> in a second direction to couple the mount plate <NUM> to fluid ends. Thus, while the first set of couplers <NUM> needs to be positioned to match a configuration of the receptacles <NUM> included on the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., on the nose plate <NUM>, see, e.g., <FIG>), the second set of couplers <NUM> are free to be positioned in any desired configuration or location, for example, to allow the power end <NUM> to be connected to fluid end <NUM> and/or any other desirable fluid end.

In fact, with the mount plate <NUM>, the cradle <NUM> may be large enough and/or provide enough space (e.g., between couplers <NUM>) that a reciprocation bore <NUM> of fluid end <NUM> can be serviced without fully disconnecting the fluid end <NUM> from the power end <NUM>. Instead, the fluid end <NUM> might be only partially disconnected from the power end <NUM>. For example, a reciprocation element <NUM> could be disconnected from the front side <NUM> of a pony rod <NUM>, and the reciprocation bore <NUM> and/or components installed therein/thereon could be serviced or replaced without any further disassembly of the fluid end <NUM> or power end <NUM>. As a specific example, the size and/or open space of the cradle <NUM> may enable the fluid end <NUM> to utilize a removable stuffing box <NUM> that is serviceable and/or replaceable without fully disconnecting the fluid end <NUM> from the power end <NUM>.

At least part of the reason that the cradle <NUM> is expanded is because the number of couplers <NUM> extending between the mount plate <NUM> and fluid end <NUM> can be reduced as compared to prior art arrangements that utilize couplers (e.g., tie rods) to couple a fluid end <NUM> directly to the power end <NUM> (e.g., via casing <NUM>). With the mount plate <NUM>, the size of the couplers is not restricted by the power end <NUM> (e.g., by the receptacles <NUM> of nose plate <NUM>). Thus, the couplers can have a larger diameter and a fewer number of couplers <NUM> can support the full load of forces transmitted between the fluid end <NUM> and the power end <NUM>, e.g., as compared to a diameter of couplers (e.g., tie rods) used in prior art arrangements to couple a fluid end <NUM> directly to the power end <NUM>. When the number of couplers <NUM> extending from the fluid end <NUM> is reduced, the open space in cradle <NUM> increases (e.g., as compared to prior art arrangements that utilize couplers (e.g., tie rods) to couple a fluid end <NUM> directly to the power end <NUM>). Additionally, when couplers <NUM> have a larger diameter, the couplers <NUM> may be stronger and the length of the couplers <NUM> can be increased to increase the longitudinal dimension of cradle <NUM> (e.g., as compared to prior art arrangements that utilize couplers (e.g., tie rods) to couple a fluid end <NUM> directly to the power end <NUM>).

Still further, if the fluid end <NUM> needs to be disconnected from the power end <NUM>, e.g., for complex servicing and/or repair, the mount plate <NUM> may enable the fluid end <NUM> to be disconnected from the power end <NUM> without removing couplers from the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., from nose plate <NUM>). For example, couplers <NUM> could be decoupled from mount plate <NUM> while mount plate <NUM> remains mounted to the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., to nose plate <NUM>) with couplers <NUM>. Then, the fluid end <NUM> would be disconnected from the power end <NUM> without risk of stripping the couplers <NUM> or the receptacles <NUM>. As mentioned, replacing or repairing the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>, such as nose plate <NUM> (e.g., by repairing a stripped receptacle <NUM>), is often extremely difficult (if not impossible). Thus, the mount plate <NUM> may avoid significant downtime that is incurred when a receptacle <NUM> is stripped by repeatedly installation and removal of a threaded coupler. Additionally or alternatively, the mount plate <NUM> may allow an end user to avoid temporarily or permanently replacing a power end <NUM> when the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., nose plate <NUM>) is damaged (since the mount plate <NUM> allows the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>, such as nose plate <NUM>, to remain untouched when decoupling a fluid end from power end <NUM>).

Now turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, which are sectional views of reciprocating pump <NUM> and fluid end <NUM>, respectively, in the depicted embodiment the mount plate <NUM> mounts a flangeless fluid end casing <NUM> to power end <NUM>. As mentioned, this fluid end casing <NUM> can receive a removable stuffing box <NUM> in or on its reciprocation bore <NUM>. This reciprocation bore <NUM> extends perpendicular to an inlet bore <NUM> and an outlet bore <NUM> and is substantially coaxial with an access bore <NUM>. Each of these bores extends from an external surface <NUM> of a casing <NUM> to a cross-bore or pumping chamber, with the reciprocation bore <NUM> extending to a front side <NUM> of the casing <NUM> and the access bore <NUM> extending to a back side <NUM> of the casing <NUM>. Meanwhile, the inlet bore <NUM> and an outlet bore <NUM> may extend substantially vertically and house valve components that allow fluid to selectively flow through the fluid end <NUM>. However, the shape, orientation, alignment, etc. of the external surface <NUM> of and bores <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are merely examples and, in other embodiments, the fluid end may include any desirable features, components, shaping, alignment, etc. In fact, any description of fluid end <NUM> included above should be understood to apply to like and/or similar parts of fluid end <NUM> and/or casing <NUM>.

Notably, since the fluid end <NUM> includes a removable stuffing box <NUM>, the casing <NUM> can be smaller and the exterior surface <NUM> can be substantially cuboidal. This may reduce the cost of materials needed to form the casing <NUM> and/or reduce the costs of manufacturing the casing <NUM>. For example, the casing <NUM> need not require a large forging and careful machining to form a flange that is coupleable to a power end <NUM>, which is a timely and expensive operation. By comparison, many prior art fluid ends include a flange that provides a connection point at which the fluid end can be directly coupled to a power end. The mount plate presented herein allows this flange and the associated machine time to be eliminated, if desired.

Nevertheless, fluid end <NUM> has been depicted as an example fluid end at least because it is configured to receive a removable stuffing box <NUM>. The removable stuffing box <NUM> can be coupled to the casing <NUM> with couplers (e.g., bolts), threads, and/or any other retaining techniques; and, in any case, may entirely support packing seals <NUM> so that removing the removable stuffing box <NUM> from the fluid end casing <NUM> removes the packing seals <NUM> from the fluid end <NUM>, e.g., for replacement or repair. In the depicted embodiment, the packing seals <NUM> are retained in the removable stuffing box <NUM> by a retaining ring <NUM> that is threaded into the removable stuffing box <NUM>; however, in other embodiments, the packing seals <NUM> might be retained in the removable stuffing box <NUM> in any desirable manner. In any case, when the removable stuffing box <NUM> is removable from the fluid end casing <NUM>, the removable stuffing box <NUM> can be positioned between couplers <NUM> (e.g., radially - in lateral and height dimensions) so that the removable stuffing box <NUM> can be disconnected from the fluid end casing <NUM> and moved longitudinally away from the front side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM> (e.g., towards a front of the power end <NUM>) without fully disconnecting the fluid end <NUM> from the power end <NUM>.

More specifically, when the removable stuffing box <NUM> is positioned between couplers <NUM>, the removable stuffing box <NUM> can be moved longitudinally away from the front side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM> (e.g., towards the power end <NUM>). During this movement, the removable stuffing box <NUM> will not encounter obstacles in the cradle <NUM> because the couplers <NUM> substantially surround the removable stuffing box <NUM>. In fact, in at least some embodiments, the couplers <NUM> may create a structurally sound cage around the third set of openings and this cage may be large enough that a removable stuffing box <NUM> (including components coupled thereto or installed therein, such as packing seals <NUM> and/or retaining ring <NUM>) can be maneuvered therein, at least along a longitudinal direction.

In some instances, the reciprocating element <NUM> can be disconnected from a pony rod <NUM> and temporarily removed from the reciprocating pump <NUM> prior to maneuvering a removable stuffing box <NUM> in the cradle <NUM>. Alternatively, the removable stuffing box <NUM> might be slid along reciprocating element <NUM> to maneuver the removable stuffing box <NUM> in the cradle <NUM> (i.e., in spaced between couplers <NUM>). Either way, when the packing seals <NUM> are fully supported by a removable stuffing box <NUM>, specific geometries of a fluid end bore (e.g., reciprocation bore <NUM>) need not support the packing seals and an end user will not need to carefully monitor and/or repair the fluid end with expensive and timely maintenance operations (e.g., weld repairs). This will also reduce downtime - an end user can replace the removable stuffing box <NUM> much faster than an end user can repair a washed out fluid end bore. Moreover, if the packing seals <NUM> are fully supported by a removable stuffing box <NUM>, wear created from debris and fluid contacting a seal location will likely concentrate on the removable stuffing box <NUM> instead of the fluid end casing <NUM>, eliminating, or at least reducing, the likelihood that the fluid end bore experiences wear and/or washes out.

That all said, other embodiments of removable stuffing box <NUM> may still realize the above advantages even if the removable stuffing box <NUM> does not fully support (i.e., encapsulate) the packing seals <NUM>. For example, if the removable stuffing box <NUM> encloses packing seals <NUM> in the reciprocation bore <NUM>, disconnecting the removable stuffing box <NUM> from the fluid end casing <NUM> without fully disconnecting the fluid end <NUM> from the power end <NUM> may allow an end user to quickly and easily access the packing seals <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, removing the removable stuffing box <NUM> from the fluid end casing <NUM> without fully disconnecting the fluid end <NUM> from the power end <NUM> may allow an end user to access interior portions of the fluid end casing <NUM> and/or components disposed in other bores (e.g., in addition to or instead of reciprocation bore <NUM>). Put simply, since the mount plate <NUM> allows couplers <NUM> to create an extended and relatively open cradle <NUM>, an end user can quickly access and service or replace a fluid end <NUM> because the fluid end <NUM> need not be fully disconnected from the power end <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, but now in combination with <FIG>, in the depicted embodiment, the couplers <NUM> couple the mount plate <NUM> to the fluid end <NUM> by extending entirely through the fluid end casing <NUM>, from the front side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM> to the back side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM>. To realize this, the fluid end casing <NUM> includes through holes <NUM> disposed laterally between sets of intersecting bores (e.g., between sets of bores <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>). Then, nuts <NUM> can be installed on distal ends <NUM> of couplers <NUM> to secure the fluid end casing <NUM> against the couplers <NUM>. In at least some embodiments, the couplers <NUM> also include enlarged diameter section <NUM>, which may be formed by a sleeve (and, thus section <NUM> may also be referred to as sleeve <NUM>) extending between the mount plate <NUM> and the front side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM> to preset a longitudinal dimension of cradle <NUM>. For example, couplers <NUM> may be tie rods with threaded ends <NUM> and <NUM> (these threads are illustrated in <FIG>, but are only an example option). With the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the first threaded end <NUM> may thread into a first opening in the mount plate <NUM> while the second threaded end <NUM> receives nuts <NUM> on the back side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM>.

In any case, when the couplers <NUM> extend through holes <NUM>, the connection between the mount plate <NUM> and the fluid end <NUM> can be tightened (e.g., via nuts <NUM>) on the back side back side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM>, which is often less obstructed and easier to access than the front side <NUM> of the fluid end casing <NUM>. That is, when the couplers <NUM> extend through holes <NUM>, the fluid end <NUM> may be connected to a power end <NUM> without tightening connections disposed on the front side <NUM> of fluid end casing <NUM>. This may make installation easier and quicker as compared to arrangements that require torquing in tight locations on the front side <NUM> of a fluid end casing <NUM>.

Now turning to <FIG>, which depicts mount plate <NUM> independent of reciprocating pump <NUM>, as mentioned, the mount plate <NUM> includes at least a first set of openings <NUM> and a second set of openings <NUM>. The first set of openings <NUM> are configured to receive a first set of couplers <NUM>, e.g., bolts, which couple the mount plate <NUM> to the power end <NUM> of the power end <NUM>. The second set of openings <NUM> is configured to receive a second set of couplers <NUM>, e.g., tie rods, which couple the mount plate <NUM> to the fluid end <NUM> in a spaced relationship (e.g., with the spacing defined by a sleeve, such as sleeve <NUM>). In some embodiments, both the first set of openings <NUM> and the second set of openings <NUM> extend through the mount plate <NUM>, from a front surface <NUM> of a main body of the mount plate <NUM> to a back surface <NUM> of the main body of the mount plate <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the first set of openings <NUM> and/or the second set of openings <NUM> need not be through holes. For example, openings <NUM> might be accessible from only the front surface <NUM> of the mount plate <NUM> (e.g., if couplers <NUM> thread into the front surface <NUM>) and/or openings <NUM> might be accessible from only the back surface <NUM> of the mount plate <NUM> (e.g., if couplers <NUM> thread into the back surface <NUM>).

Generally, openings <NUM> and openings <NUM> may be sized to receive their respective couplers. Thus, in some embodiments, openings <NUM> are larger than openings <NUM>, but in other embodiments the opposite may be true. Alternatively, openings <NUM> and/or openings <NUM> need not be constantly sized and can vary with respect to other openings of their set or with respect to openings of other sets. In the embodiment of <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, openings <NUM> are generally larger than openings <NUM> and the openings <NUM> are positioned interiorly of openings <NUM> (or, from another perspective, openings <NUM> are positioned exteriorly of openings <NUM>). Thus, the couplers <NUM> (e.g., bolts) are not positioned within an enclosure (e.g., cage) generally defined by couplers <NUM> (e.g., tie rods) and do not decrease an amount of space "X1" provided between couplers <NUM> (an example of which is generally depicted with a dashed line in <FIG>).

In at least some embodiments, this space X1 is larger than an outer dimension of a removable stuffing box <NUM> so that a removable stuffing box <NUM> can be removed in a longitudinal direction through a three-dimensional space with a cross-section defined by space X1. In fact, in some embodiments, the distance between two adjacent openings <NUM> may be larger than an outer dimension of a removable stuffing box <NUM> so that a removable stuffing box <NUM> can be entirely removed from the cradle <NUM> without removing couplers <NUM>. However, the distance between all adjacent openings <NUM> need not be larger than an outer dimension of a removable stuffing box <NUM> - one or more pairs of adjacent openings <NUM> can be separated by such a distance. Meanwhile, openings <NUM> may be generally aligned at corners of space X2 so that the couplers <NUM> align with receptacles <NUM> included on the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>.

Also, in any case, openings <NUM> and openings <NUM> may both generally surround a third set of openings <NUM> that are each configured to receive at least a pony rod <NUM> and/or a reciprocating element <NUM> (e.g., depending on the position of a stroke and/or the specific lengths/arrangements of these elements). When openings <NUM> and openings <NUM> both generally surround the third set of openings <NUM>, couplers <NUM> and couplers <NUM> may each stably support each pony rod <NUM> and/or reciprocating element <NUM>. That is, openings <NUM> may be positioned so that couplers <NUM> create a structurally sound cage around the third set of openings <NUM> and/or openings <NUM> may be positioned so that couplers <NUM> create a structurally sound connection to the power end <NUM> around each opening of the third set of openings <NUM>.

In the depicted embodiment, the back surface <NUM> of the mount plate <NUM> defines grooves <NUM> that each surround one of the openings <NUM>. Additionally, each of the openings <NUM> includes an interior lip <NUM>. The groove <NUM> may receive a sealing element (e.g., an O-ring) that forms an exterior seal around each opening <NUM> (e.g., when the mount plate <NUM> is secured in a position abutting a power end <NUM>); however, the groove <NUM> need not be included in all embodiments. Moreover, embodiments including a groove <NUM> can include a groove of any size or shape, with any relief or installation features now known or developed hereafter. Meanwhile, the interior lip <NUM> provides a location on which at least a portion of an oil stop assembly <NUM> may be mounted. One example oil stop assembly <NUM> is generally shown in <FIG> and is described in further detail below in connection with <FIG>, which depict the oil stop assembly <NUM> in further detail. Generally, the oil stop assembly <NUM> may engage and seal a pony rod <NUM> and/or a crosshead frame <NUM> serve to retain oil in the crosshead assembly <NUM> of the power end <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the mount plate <NUM> also extends from a first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the first end <NUM> is generally aligned with the first end <NUM> of the nose plate <NUM> and the second end <NUM> is generally aligned with the second end <NUM> of the nose plate <NUM>. That is, in the depicted embodiment, the mount plate <NUM> laterally spans the nose plate <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the mount plate <NUM> can span any portion of the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> and/or extend beyond the lateral ends of the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., as defined by sides <NUM> and <NUM>), which may or may not include nose plate <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the mount plate <NUM> can be modular and can include sub-plates that collectively span any portion of the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> and/or collectively extend beyond the lateral ends of the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., as defined by sides <NUM> and <NUM>). Meanwhile, the mount plate <NUM> may extend longitudinally so that the mount plate <NUM> spans any portion of the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., any portion of nose plate <NUM>) and/or extends beyond the longitudinal ends of the front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., the longitudinal ends of nose plate <NUM>).

Now turning to <FIG>, as mentioned, each of the openings <NUM> of a mount plate <NUM> includes an interior lip <NUM> on which at least a portion of an oil stop assembly <NUM> may be mounted. In fact, in the depicted embodiment, the interior lip <NUM> supports an entire oil stop assembly <NUM>, including a housing <NUM>, a seal element <NUM>, and a retainer <NUM>. The housing <NUM> has a seating flange <NUM> configured to seat on a front surface of interior lip <NUM> and a seal flange <NUM> configured to support/receive the seal element <NUM>. The seating flange <NUM> is generally disposed at a radially exterior portion of housing <NUM> while the seal flange <NUM> is disposed on a radially interior portion of housing <NUM>. Between these two flanges, the housing <NUM> includes a receptacle <NUM> within which a fastener <NUM> can be installed.

Although not explicitly shown, each housing <NUM> may include a plurality of receptacles <NUM>, arranged circumferentially around the housing <NUM>. Thus, fasteners <NUM> can secure the retainer <NUM> to the housing after a seal element <NUM> is positioned on the seal flange <NUM> to secure the seal element <NUM> between the seal element <NUM> and the retainer <NUM>. That is, the seal flange <NUM> can engage an upstream/back edge of seal element <NUM> while the retainer <NUM> engages a downstream/front edge of the seal element <NUM>, securing the seal element <NUM> therebetween. Then, the seal element <NUM> can engage a pony rod <NUM> and/or a crosshead frame <NUM> to retain oil in the crosshead assembly <NUM> of the power end <NUM>. Moreover, in at least some embodiments, the oil stop assembly <NUM> may be removably coupled to the mount plate <NUM> with one or more fasteners to further ensure that the seal element <NUM> is properly positioned to retain oil in the crosshead assembly <NUM> of the power end <NUM>.

Among other advantages, providing a mount plate <NUM> that supports the oil stop assembly <NUM> may reduce the number of parts and/or the amount of material needed to form reciprocating pump <NUM>. Typically (i.e., in pumps without mount plate <NUM>), an oil stop assembly is bolted directly to the power end and transfers stress to the power end frame (e.g., to the nose plate). Additionally, even though such pumps do not have components disposed adjacent to the power end, a support/housing must be provided for the oil stop assembly. Now, since the mount plate <NUM> is already positioned proximate the power end <NUM>, it can supporting/housing the oil stop assembly <NUM> without adding an additional component to the overall pump <NUM>.

Moreover, when the oil stop assembly <NUM> is supported by the mount plate <NUM>, the mount plate <NUM> will absorb forces/stresses applied to the oil stop assembly <NUM>. This removes stress, strain, and forces from the frame <NUM> of the power end <NUM>.

(e.g., from the nose plate <NUM>), which allows the frame to be formed from weaker and/or less material, saving manufacturing costs. Moving the connection point for the oil stop assembly <NUM> (e.g., the location at which the oil stop assembly <NUM> is secured in place relative to a pony rod <NUM>) off the frame <NUM> of the power end <NUM> (and to a location accessible from a side of mount plate <NUM> that faces the fluid end <NUM>) may also make the oil stop assembly <NUM> easier to access for servicing and/or replacement. Also, with the depicted embodiment, the oil stop assembly <NUM> can be fully assembled (e.g., retainer <NUM> can be coupled to housing <NUM> with a seal element <NUM> secured therebetween) prior to installation in the reciprocating pump <NUM>. Thus, the oil stop assembly <NUM> may be relatively easy to install and/or remove. By comparison, if the seal element <NUM> is installed by itself, it may be difficult to slide the seal element <NUM> over a pony rod <NUM>. But to be clear, such an arrangement (where seal element <NUM> is installed independently) is within the scope of this application and may still realize the other advantages discussed herein in connection with oil stop assembly <NUM>.

In fact, the mount plate and oil stop assembly <NUM> depicted in the Figures are merely one embodiment and other embodiments of the mount plate presented herein need not support an oil stop assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, other embodiments of the mount plate presented herein need not include an interior lip <NUM>, might removably support only a portion of an oil stop assembly <NUM>, and/or may vary from the depicted embodiment in geometry, size, or other manners. As an example, in some embodiments, the interior lip <NUM> might define the housing <NUM> (i.e., the housing <NUM> may be formed integrally with mount plate <NUM>) so that the mount plate <NUM> removably supports only the seal element <NUM> and the retainer <NUM>. Alternatively, the mount plate <NUM> might partially support an oil stop assembly <NUM> that sits within openings <NUM>, but the oil stop assembly <NUM> might be coupled to the power end <NUM> (e.g., to the nose plate <NUM> or another portion of the frame <NUM>) instead of the mount plate <NUM>. Nevertheless, the pump may still realize the manufacturing advantages discussed above because the mount plate <NUM> may still absorb the stress, strain, and/or forces acting on the oil stop assembly <NUM> (e.g., due to laterally surrounding and supporting the oil stop assembly <NUM>) and allow the power end frame to be formed from weaker and/or less material.

Now turning to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, these Figures depict various views of another embodiment of a reciprocating pump <NUM>' with a mount plate <NUM>' that couples a fluid end <NUM>' to power end <NUM>. This embodiment is substantially similar to the embodiment described above in connection with <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>. Thus, for brevity, like or similar parts are not described again and any description of parts or features of <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> included herein should be understood to apply to like or similar parts of <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. For example, mount plate <NUM>' is still coupled to power end <NUM> with couplers <NUM> and is still coupled to fluid end <NUM>' with couplers <NUM>. However, now, the fluid end <NUM>' has a casing <NUM>' with a different external shape as compared to casing <NUM>, at least on back side <NUM>', which now has steps to define a contoured shape (as opposed to a back side <NUM>, which is straight). This shaping minimizes the overall size of couplers <NUM> while extending the access bore <NUM> to ensure that the access bore <NUM> has enough space to receive any desired internal components. Additionally, now the through holes <NUM>' of casing <NUM>' (best seen in <FIG>) are positioned in different locations as compared to holes <NUM> of casing <NUM> (e.g., with more space disposed therebetween). Thus, without mount plate <NUM> or mount plate <NUM>', power end power end <NUM> would not be operable with both fluid end <NUM> and fluid end <NUM>'.

Now turning to <FIG> specifically, to allow the power end <NUM> to be coupled to the holes <NUM>' of fluid end casing <NUM>', the openings <NUM>' are disposed in a different arrangement as compared to openings <NUM> of mount plate <NUM>. However, at the same time, openings <NUM> are still positioned at corners of space X2 so that the couplers <NUM> continue to algin with receptacles <NUM> included at front <NUM> of frame <NUM>. Thus, openings <NUM>' are now positioned exteriorly (e.g., radially exteriorly) of openings <NUM> and define a space X3 that is larger than space X1. This may create a cradle <NUM> with a larger longitudinal dimension and, thus, may create more space in the cradle <NUM>. Moreover, even though the openings <NUM> are positioned within space X3, the longitudinal extension of couplers <NUM> past the front surface <NUM> of mount plate <NUM>' may be limited and, thus, the couplers <NUM> may not substantially reduce the space of the cradle <NUM>. That is, the space gained by longitudinally expanding space X1 to the dimensions defined by space X3 may outweigh the space lost from couplers <NUM> being disposed in space X3.

Now turning to <FIG>, which depict perspective and front views of yet another embodiment of a mount plate coupled to power end <NUM>, the above embodiments that depict openings <NUM> and openings <NUM>' in different locations are not mutually exclusive options for different mount plates. Thus, as an example, mount plate <NUM> depicts an embodiment where the second set of openings <NUM> includes a first subset of second openings <NUM> (which may also be referred to as a second set of openings) and a second subset of second openings <NUM> (which may also be referred to as a fourth set of openings). Each subset of openings <NUM> and <NUM> may receive couplers <NUM> that connect the mount plate <NUM> to a fluid end, such as fluid end <NUM> or fluid end <NUM>'. Thus, mount plate <NUM> provides two compatibility options. First, the first subset of second openings <NUM> allows the mount plate <NUM> to couple power end <NUM> to a fluid end with narrow through holes (or other such receptacles), such as holes <NUM> of fluid end casing <NUM>. Next, the second subset of second openings <NUM> allows the mount plate <NUM> to couple power end <NUM> to a fluid end with widely spread through holes (or other such receptacles), such as holes <NUM>' of fluid end casing <NUM>'.

Despite this difference, mount plate <NUM> is otherwise substantially similar to mount plate <NUM> and mount plate <NUM>'. For example, mount plate <NUM> has a main body that extends from a front surface <NUM> to a back surface <NUM> that abuts (or is at least proximate to) a power end <NUM> when coupled thereto (e.g., via couplers <NUM>). Additionally, mount plate <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM> and both ends may align with, extend past, or terminate within the lateral bounds of front <NUM> of frame <NUM> (e.g., as defined by sides <NUM> and <NUM>). Finally, the mount plate <NUM> may include a first set of openings <NUM> configured to align with receptacles <NUM> included on a front <NUM> of frame <NUM> and a third set of openings <NUM> configured to allow pony rods <NUM> and/or reciprocating elements <NUM> to move therethrough.

<FIG> depict rear perspective and front views of yet another embodiment of a mount plate that may be coupled to a power end, such as power end <NUM>. Most notably, in this embodiment, the mount plate <NUM> includes third openings that are connected and form a continuous opening or slot <NUM>. Or, from another perspective, the third openings are replaced by a contiguous slot <NUM>. The slot <NUM> is configured to receive multiple pony rods that extends from a power end, but does not interfere with a first set of openings <NUM> configured to receive couplers (e.g., couplers <NUM>, such as bolts) for coupling the mount plate <NUM> to a power end. Nor does slot <NUM> interfere with a second set of openings <NUM> configured to receive elongate couplers (e.g., couplers <NUM>, such as tie rods) that couple the mount plate <NUM> to a fluid end.

Despite this difference, mount plate <NUM> is otherwise substantially similar to other mount plates depicted in this application, such as mount plate <NUM>. For example, mount plate <NUM> has a main body that extends from a front surface <NUM> to a back surface <NUM> that abuts (or is at least proximate to) a power end when coupled thereto (e.g., via couplers <NUM>). Additionally, mount plate <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM> and both ends may align with, extend past, or terminate within the lateral bounds of a front of frame of power end (e.g., as defined by sides of the power end frame). However, notably, in this embodiment, first end <NUM> and second end <NUM> each include flange-style extensions that extends away from the back surface <NUM> and, thus, may at least partially extend or wrap around a portion of a front of a frame of a power end, such as nose plate <NUM>. Such flanges, of any size or shape, may also be included in any other embodiment of a mount plate, including mount plates <NUM>, <NUM>', and <NUM>.

Now turning to <FIG>, as mentioned, some power ends need not include a nose plate but may still utilize a mount plate formed in accordance with the present application. <FIG> illustrates an example of such a power end <NUM>'. In this power end <NUM>', the frame <NUM>' is formed from sub-portions or sub-frames. Specifically, the frame <NUM>' includes a first portion <NUM> that houses the crankshaft <NUM>, a second portion <NUM> that houses the crosshead <NUM>, and may also include a third portion <NUM> that houses a gear assembly. Overall, the first frame portion <NUM> and the second frame portion <NUM> define a longitudinal dimension of the frame <NUM>', with a front <NUM> of frame portion <NUM> being coupled to a back <NUM> of frame portion <NUM>. Thus, the back <NUM> of the frame <NUM>' is defined by the first frame portion <NUM> and the front <NUM> of the frame <NUM>' is defined by the second frame portion <NUM>. However, for the purposes of this application, both the overall front <NUM> of frame <NUM>' and the front of any frame portion, such as the front <NUM> of frame portion <NUM>, may be referred to as a "front of the frame" or variations thereof.

This is because a mount plate could conceivably be mounted to a front of frame portion <NUM>, frame portion <NUM>, or any other frame portion (e.g., of any other configuration of any other embodiment). For example, a mount plate of the present application might be positioned at the front <NUM> of the frame <NUM>' but could be coupled to the front <NUM> of frame portion <NUM>. Alternatively, a mount plate of the present application might be positioned at the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>' while also be coupled to the front <NUM> of frame <NUM>' (which, notably, does not include a nose plate). Still further, a mount plate of the present application might be positioned at the front <NUM> of frame portion <NUM> while also being coupled to the front <NUM> of frame portion <NUM> (which also does not include a nose plate). In any case, mounting the mount plate of the present application to frame <NUM>' may allow couplers <NUM>, which typically connect frame <NUM>' in a specific arrangement in order to connect a fluid end to power end <NUM>', to be replaced with elongate couplers (e.g., couplers <NUM>) in any desired arrangement. This will improve the compatibility and serviceability of the power end for the reasons described herein. Moreover, <FIG> merely illustrates one example power end <NUM>' with a multi-part frame <NUM>' and, in other embodiments, a power end may include any number of frame portions or configurations on which the mount plate of the present application may be mounted.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail and with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since it will be apparent that various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. In addition, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the following claims.

Claim 1:
A reciprocating pump (<NUM>), comprising:
a power end (<NUM>) configured to generate pumping power;
a fluid end (<NUM>) configured to deliver a fluid from an inlet bore (<NUM>) to an outlet bore (<NUM>) as the power end (<NUM>) drives motion of a reciprocating element (<NUM>); and characterised by comprising
a mount plate (<NUM>) disposed proximate the power end (<NUM>), the mount plate including a first set of openings (<NUM>) and a second set of openings (<NUM>), wherein the first set of openings is configured to receive a first set of couplers (<NUM>) that couple the mount plate to the power end and the second set of openings is configured to receive a second set of couplers (<NUM>) that couple the mount plate to the fluid end (<NUM>) in a spaced relationship.