ASSEMBLIES, APPARATUSES, AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY OF HIGH-POWER PUMPS

Abstract

Apparatuses, assemblies, and methods for facilitating assembly, disassembly, and/or service of a fluid end for a pump may include a fluid end handling system, including a lift adaptor and a support frame. The lift adaptor may include a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end, and a fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to a pump frame for assembly and removal of the fluid end. The support frame may include a pump frame connector to connect the support frame to the pump frame, a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection to the pump frame, and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect the support frame to an actuator.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to apparatuses, assemblies, and methods for facilitating assembly and disassembly of high-power pumps and, more particularly, to apparatuses, assemblies, and methods for facilitating assembly and disassembly of high-power fluid pumps.

BACKGROUND

Hydraulic fracturing is an oilfield operation that stimulates the production of hydrocarbons, such that the hydrocarbons may more easily or readily flow from a subsurface formation to a well. For example, a hydraulic fracturing system may be configured to fracture a formation by pumping a fracturing fluid into a well at high pressure and high flow rates. Some fracturing fluids may take the form of a slurry including water, proppants, and/or other additives, such as thickening agents and gels. The slurry may be forced via operation of one or more pumps into the formation at rates faster than can be accepted by the existing pores, fractures, faults, or other spaces within the formation. As a result, pressure may build rapidly to the point where the formation may fail and may begin to fracture. By continuing to pump the fracturing fluid into the formation, existing fractures in the formation may be caused to expand and extend in directions away from a well bore, thereby creating additional flow paths for hydrocarbons to flow to the well bore. The proppants may serve to prevent the expanded fractures from closing or may reduce the extent to which the expanded fractures contract when pumping of the fracturing fluid is ceased. Once the formation is fractured, large quantities of the injected fracturing fluid are allowed to flow out of the well, and the production stream of hydrocarbons may be obtained from the formation.

To pump the fracturing fluid into the well bore, a hydraulic fracturing system may include a number of hydraulic fracturing units, each including a prime mover to supply mechanical power and a hydraulic fracturing pump driven by the prime mover. The hydraulic fracturing pump may be supplied with fracturing fluid, and the hydraulic fracturing pump, driven by the prime mover, may pump the fracturing fluid at high-pressure and high flow rates into the wellhead during a fracturing operation. In order to facilitate use of the hydraulic fracturing units and other equipment related to a fracturing operation at different locations, the hydraulic fracturing units may often include a mobile platform, such as a trailer, onto which the prime mover, hydraulic fracturing pump, and other components of the hydraulic fracturing unit may be mounted. The hydraulic fracturing unit may be transported to one wellhead location, set-up for operation, used during the fracturing operation, and once the fracturing operation is completed, it may be partially disassembled for transportation and transported to another wellhead location for use in another fracturing operation.

It may be desirable for the hydraulic fracturing units to be capable of increased pumping capacity. For example, by increasing the pumping capacity of the hydraulic fracturing units, it may be possible to successfully complete a fracturing operation using fewer hydraulic fracturing units, which may lead to reduced set-up and tear-down time, the need for fewer operators, more efficient operation, and more cost-effective completion of the fracturing operation. However, increasing the pumping capacity of the hydraulic fracturing units may result in increasing the size of the hydraulic fracturing pumps in order to increase the output of the hydraulic fracturing pumps. Applicant has recognized that increasing the size of the hydraulic fracturing pumps may render it challenging to assemble and disassemble the hydraulic fracturing pump, for example, during manufacturing or maintenance of the hydraulic fracturing pumps. For example, components of high-power fracturing pumps may be very large dimensionally and may be very heavy, thus rendering the components challenging to assemble, disassemble, and maintain.

Accordingly, Applicant has recognized a need for assemblies, apparatuses, and methods for facilitating the assembly and disassembly of high-power pumps, while mitigating or eliminating possible drawbacks. The present disclosure may address one or more of the above-referenced drawbacks, as well as other possible drawbacks.

SUMMARY

As referenced above, it may be desirable to provide hydraulic fracturing units having higher pumping capacities. Achieving higher pumping capacities may result in the use of high-power pumps to achieve higher pump outputs. Efforts to provide pumps having higher pump outputs may result in relatively larger and heavier pumps. Larger and heavier pumps may include larger and heavier components. Applicant has recognized that this may render it challenging to assemble, disassemble, and maintain such pumps. For example, it may be difficult to lift, properly orient, and/or position relatively larger and heavier components of the pump, such as fluid ends, during assembly, disassembly, and maintenance.

The present disclosure generally is directed to providing assemblies, apparatuses, and methods for assembly and disassembly of high-power pumps. For example, in some embodiments, assemblies, apparatuses, and methods described herein may facilitate lifting, orienting, and/or positioning large pump components, for example, a fluid end, during assembly and disassembly of the high-power pumps.

According to some embodiments, a fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a pump frame of a high-power pump, may include a lift adaptor having a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end, and a fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the pump frame for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the pump frame. The fluid end handling system further may include a support frame having a pump frame connector positioned to connect the support frame to the pump frame, and a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection of the fluid end to the pump frame. The support frame connector further may include an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

According to some embodiments, a fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a power end of a high-power pump, may include a lift adaptor having a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end, and a fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the power end for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the power end. The fluid end handling system further may include a support frame having a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the power end, a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection of the fluid end to the power end, and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator. The fluid end handling system also may include an actuator configured to be connected to: (a) the support frame via the actuator connector and (b) the fluid end, the actuator being positioned to move the fluid end up the ramp toward the power end during assembly of the fluid end to the power end and lower the fluid end down the ramp during disassembly of the fluid end from the power end.

According to some embodiments, a support frame for a high-power pump having a pump frame may include a first end frame member and a second end frame member, and a frame member connector connecting the first end frame member to the second end frame member and extending along a longitudinal axis of the support frame. One or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member may include a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to a lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump, a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction to facilitate assembly of a fluid end of the high-power pump to a power end of the high-power pump, and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

According to some embodiments, a method for assembling a fluid end to a pump frame of a high-power pump, may include associating a lift adaptor with the fluid end, thereby to orient the fluid end relative to the pump frame of the high-power pump. The method further may include positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame and oriented for mounting the fluid end on a plurality of fluid end connection studs connected to the pump frame and extending in a first direction. The method also may include connecting an actuator to the fluid end and a support frame on which the pump frame is mounted, the support frame including a ramp having a ramp surface extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction. The method further may include activating the actuator, and moving, via activation of the actuator, the fluid end along the ramp toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs. The method also may include securing the fluid end to the fluid end connection studs.

According to some embodiments, a method for disassembling a fluid end from a pump frame of a high-power pump, may include connecting an actuator to a fluid end and a support frame on which a pump frame is mounted, the support frame including a ramp having a ramp surface. The method further may include disconnecting a plurality of fluid end connection studs of the high-power pump from the fluid end, the plurality of fluid end connection studs extending in a first direction and the ramp surface of the ramp extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction. The method also may include activating the actuator, and moving, via activation of the actuator, the fluid end along the ramp, thereby to separate the fluid end from the plurality of fluid end connection studs. The method further may include engaging a lift adaptor with a lifting mechanism. The method also may include associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end, thereby to engage the fluid end such that the fluid end maintains an orientation relative to the power end, and separating, via the lift adaptor and the lift mechanism, the fluid end from the pump frame.

According to some embodiments, a support frame for a high-power pump having a pump frame may include a first end frame member and a second end frame member. The support frame further may include a frame member connector connecting the first end frame member to the second end frame member and extending along a longitudinal axis of the support frame. One or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member may include a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to a lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump.

Still other aspects and advantages of these exemplary embodiments and other embodiments, are discussed in detail herein. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing information and the following detailed description provide merely illustrative examples of various aspects and embodiments, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects and embodiments. Accordingly, these and other objects, along with advantages and features of the present disclosure, will become apparent through reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and may exist in various combinations and permutations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the detailed description, serve to explain principles of the embodiments discussed herein. No attempt is made to show structural details of this disclosure in more detail than can be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the embodiments discussed herein and the various ways in which they can be practiced. According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings can be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of an example hydraulic fracturing unit including an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump, and an example fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a pump frame of a high-power pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example hydraulic fracturing system including a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 3A is a schematic side view of an example hydraulic fracturing unit, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 3B is a schematic end view of the example hydraulic fracturing unit shown in FIG. 3A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a schematic top view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump shown in FIG. 4A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4C is a schematic bottom view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump shown in FIG. 4A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4D is a schematic end view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump shown in FIG. 4A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a schematic partial perspective side view of an example hydraulic fracturing unit including an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump, and an example fluid end handling system, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a schematic end view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6B is a schematic end view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump shown in FIG. 6A, with an example fluid end handling system shown used to assemble, or disassemble, an example fluid end relative to a pump frame of the high-power pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6C is a schematic perspective view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump shown in FIG. 6A, with an example fluid end handling system shown used to assemble, or disassemble, an example fluid end relative to a pump frame of the high-power pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a schematic partial perspective close-up view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump, with an example fluid end handling system shown used to assemble, or disassemble, an example fluid end relative to a pump frame of the high-power pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a schematic partial perspective assembly view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump and an example support frame, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 9A is a schematic partial end view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump and an example fluid end handling system with an example fluid end being assembled to the example pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 9B is a schematic partial end view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump and example fluid end handling system shown in FIG. 9A with the example fluid end assembled to the example pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10A is a partial schematic perspective view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump supported by an example support frame, with the example pump not including a fluid end connected to an example pump frame, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump supported by the example support frame shown in FIG. 10A, and an example fluid end supported by example lift adaptors, with the example fluid end separated from example fluid end connection studs connected to the example pump frame of the pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10C is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump, example support frame, example fluid end, and example lift adaptors shown in FIG. 10B, with example actuators moving the example fluid end closer to engagement with the example fluid end connection studs, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10D is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump, example support frame, and example fluid end shown in FIG. 10C, with the example lift adaptors removed, and the fluid end engaged with the example fluid end connection studs of the pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 11A is a block diagram of an example method for assembling a fluid end to a pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 11B is a continuation of the block diagram shown in FIG. 11A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 12A is a block diagram of an example method for disassembling a fluid end from a pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 12B is a continuation of the block diagram shown in FIG. 12A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an example fluid end handing controller configured to at least partially control assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a pump frame of a high-power pump, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The drawings include like numerals to indicate like parts throughout the several views, the following description is provided as an enabling teaching of exemplary embodiments, and those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes may be made to the embodiments described. It also will be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the embodiments described can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the embodiments without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the embodiments described are possible and may even be desirable in certain circumstances. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the embodiments and not in limitation thereof.

The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As used herein, the term “plurality” refers to two or more items or components. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” and “involving,” whether in the written description or the claims and the like, are open-ended terms, i.e., to mean “including but not limited to,” unless otherwise stated. Thus, the use of such terms is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, and equivalents thereof, as well as additional items. The transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of,” are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, with respect to any claims. Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish claim elements.

As noted above, it may be desirable to provide hydraulic fracturing units having higher pumping capacities. Achieving higher pumping capacities may result in the use of high-power pumps to achieve higher pump outputs. Efforts to provide pumps having higher pump outputs may result in relatively larger and heavier pumps. Larger and heavier pumps may include larger and heavier components, such as, for example, larger and heavier fluid ends. Applicant has recognized that this may render it challenging to assemble and disassemble such pumps. For example, it may be difficult to lift, properly orient, position, and/or connect or disconnect relatively larger and heavier components of the pump, such as fluid ends, during assembly and disassembly.

The present disclosure generally is directed to providing assemblies, apparatuses, and methods for assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of high-power pumps. For example, in some embodiments, assemblies, apparatuses, and methods described herein may facilitate lifting, orienting, and/or positioning large pump components, such as, for example, fluid ends, during assembly and disassembly of the high-power pumps.

For example, FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of an example hydraulic fracturing unit 10 including an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11, and an example fluid end handling system 12 for facilitating assembly and disassembly of the high-power pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example hydraulic fracturing system 14 including a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units 10, according to embodiments of the disclosure. The pump 11 may be any high-power pump, high-pressure pump, reciprocating pump, and/or high-flow rate pump suitable for pumping solids, semi-solids, slurries, liquids, fluids, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the pump 11 may be, for example, a hydraulic fracturing pump for pumping hydraulic fracturing fluid. In some embodiments, the pump 11 may be capable of providing a relatively higher pumping capacity while still having physical dimensions enabling transportation of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 including the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 on public highways, as explained in more detail herein. Alternatively, or in addition, some embodiments of the pump 11 may operate with relatively lower shock magnitude and/or or vibration magnitude resulting from, for example, torque pulses generated by operation of the pump 11. Although embodiments of the pump 11 are described herein as being a “hydraulic fracturing pump” for pumping hydraulic fracturing fluid for the purpose of discussion, the pump 11 may be any other type of pump, such as, for example, any type of high-power pump, high-pressure pump, reciprocating pump, and/or high-flow rate pump suitable for pumping solids, semi-solids, slurries, liquids, fluids, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the pump 11 may be, for example, a hydraulic fracturing pump for pumping solids, semi-solids, slurries, liquids, fluids, or combinations thereof, such as hydraulic fracturing fluid.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, one or more of the hydraulic fracturing units 10 may include a hydraulic fracturing pump 11 driven by a prime mover 16, such as an internal combustion engine. For example, the prime movers 16 may include gas turbine engines (GTEs) or reciprocating-piston engines. In some embodiments, each of the hydraulic fracturing units 10 may include a directly-driven turbine (DDT) hydraulic fracturing pump 11, in which the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 is connected to one or more GTEs that supply power to the respective hydraulic fracturing pump 11 for supplying fracturing fluid at high pressure and high flow rates to a formation. For example, the GTE may be connected to a respective hydraulic fracturing pump 11 via a transmission 18 (e.g., a reduction gearbox) connected to a drive shaft, which, in turn, is connected to a driveshaft or input flange of a respective hydraulic fracturing pump 11, which may be a reciprocating hydraulic fracturing pump. Other types of engine-to-pump arrangements are contemplated as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

In some embodiments, one or more of the GTEs may be a dual-fuel or bi-fuel GTE, for example, capable of being operated using of two or more different types of fuel, such as natural gas and diesel fuel, although other types of fuel are contemplated. For example, a dual-fuel or bi-fuel GTE may be capable of being operated using a first type of fuel, a second type of fuel, and/or a combination of the first type of fuel and the second type of fuel. For example, the fuel may include gaseous fuels, such as, for example, compressed natural gas (CNG), natural gas, field gas, pipeline gas, methane, propane, butane, and/or liquid fuels, such as, for example, diesel fuel (e.g., #2 diesel), bio-diesel fuel, bio-fuel, alcohol, gasoline, gasohol, aviation fuel, and other fuels as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Gaseous fuels may be supplied by CNG bulk vessels, a gas compressor, a liquid natural gas vaporizer, line gas, and/or well-gas produced natural gas. Other types and associated fuel supply sources are contemplated. The one or more prime movers 16 may be operated to provide horsepower to drive the transmission 18 connected to one or more of the hydraulic fracturing pumps 11 to safely and successfully fracture a formation during a well stimulation project or fracturing operation.

In some embodiments, the prime mover 16 may include one or more electric motors. The electric motor may be rated for over 2,000 hp over 5,000 hp, or over 10,000 hp, for example, for the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 to generate a desired pressure and flow rate. The electric motor may include a stator having stator windings for generating a rotating magnetic field at a synchronous speed corresponding to a frequency of a voltage applied to the stator windings. The motor may also include a rotor having rotor windings for interacting with the rotating magnetic field to rotate the rotor. The rotor windings may be configured to generate rotating magnetic poles for interacting with the rotating magnetic field. In one or more embodiments, the electric motor may be an induction electric motor in which the rotating magnetic poles in the rotor are induced by the rotating magnetic field in the stator. In one or more embodiments, the electric motor may be a multi-phase electric motor, such as a three-phase motor, for example.

The electric motor may include a single shaft electric motor or a dual shaft electric motor. In some embodiments, the electric motor and two or more hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be disposed on a single chassis. For example, the electric a motor may be disposed on a single chassis and arranged between two hydraulic fracturing pumps 11, for example, in manner similar to the pump arrangements described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,395,049, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In some embodiments, two or more electric motors and two or more hydraulic fracturing pumps 11 may be disposed on a single chassis. For example, a first electric motor may be connected to or otherwise mechanically linked with a first hydraulic fracturing pump 11 and a second electric motor may be connected to or otherwise mechanically linked with a second hydraulic fracturing pump 11, and each of the first and second electric motor and the first and second hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be disposed on a single chassis and may be arranged in a manner similar to the pump arrangements described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,118,438, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. For example, each electric motor and corresponding hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be contained as a single module, and a plurality of such modules may be disposed on a single chassis.

In some embodiments, the electric motor may be supplied with a voltage having a fixed frequency or a voltage having a variable frequency. For example, a voltage with a fixed frequency may be applied to a stator of the electric motor and hence the electric motor may be referred to as a “fixed-frequency motor.” Electric power to a motor control center may be supplied by an on-site power source, such as on-site diesel generators, natural gas reciprocating engine generators, or turbine generators, or by an off-site power source, such as a utility grid power. In some embodiments, the motor control center may be disposed with the electric motor and the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 on a single chassis. In some embodiments, a voltage with a variable frequency may be applied to a stator of the electric motor. In some such embodiments, a remotely controllable variable frequency drive (VFD) may be disposed, along with the electric motor(s) and the hydraulic fracturing pump(s) 11, on a single chassis. The VFD may be coupled to or otherwise electrically linked with a power source, for example, as described herein. The VFD may be configured to provide electric power to the one or more electric motors.

In some embodiments, a plurality of electric motors may be connected to or otherwise mechanically linked with a single hydraulic fracturing pump 11. For example, the plurality of electric motors may each be connected to a crankshaft of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11. The plurality of electric motors may include any suitable number of electric motors (e.g., from two electric motors to seven or more electric motors). In some embodiments, at least five electric motors may be coupled to the crankshaft in a manner, such that each electric motor may be positioned about the pump crankshaft axis, so that an output shaft of each electric motor is spaced apart from a longitudinal rotation axis of the crankshaft. For example, the plurality of electric motors may be arranged on or connected to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 in a manner similar to the electric motor arrangement(s) described in U.S. Publication No. US 2021/0095648 A1, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In some embodiments, the fracturing fluid may include, for example, water, proppants, and/or other additives, such as thickening agents and/or gels. For example, proppants may include grains of sand, ceramic beads or spheres, shells, and/or other particulates, and may be added to the fracturing fluid, along with gelling agents to create a slurry, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The slurry may be forced via the hydraulic fracturing pumps 11 into the formation at rates faster than may be accepted by the existing pores, fractures, faults, or other spaces within the formation. As a result, pressure in the formation may build rapidly to the point where the formation fails and begins to fracture. By continuing to pump the fracturing fluid into the formation, existing fractures in the formation may be caused to expand and extend in directions away from a well bore, thereby creating additional flow paths for hydrocarbons to flow to the well. The proppants may serve to prevent the expanded fractures from closing or may reduce the extent to which the expanded fractures contract when pumping of the fracturing fluid is ceased. Once the well is fractured, large quantities of the injected fracturing fluid may be allowed to flow out of the well, and the water and any proppants not remaining in the expanded fractures may be separated from hydrocarbons produced by the well to protect downstream equipment from damage and corrosion. In some instances, the production stream of hydrocarbons may be processed to neutralize corrosive agents in the production stream resulting from the fracturing process.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the hydraulic fracturing system 14 may include one or more water tanks 20 for supplying water for fracturing fluid, one or more chemical additive units 22 for supplying gels or agents for adding to the fracturing fluid, and/or one or more proppant tanks 24 (e.g., sand tanks) for supplying proppants for the fracturing fluid. The example hydraulic fracturing system 14 shown also includes a hydration unit 26 for mixing water from the water tanks 20 and gels and/or agents from the chemical additive units 22 to form a mixture, for example, gelled water. The example shown also includes a blender 28, which receives the mixture from the hydration unit 26 and proppants via conveyers 30 from the proppant tanks 24. The blender 28 may mix the mixture and the proppants into a slurry to serve as fracturing fluid for the hydraulic fracturing system 14. Once combined, the slurry may be discharged through low-pressure hoses, which convey the slurry into two or more low-pressure lines in a fracturing manifold 32. In the example shown, the low-pressure lines in the fracturing manifold 32 may feed the slurry to the hydraulic fracturing pumps 11 through low-pressure suction hoses, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

The hydraulic fracturing pumps 11, driven by the respective internal GTEs 16, discharge the slurry (e.g., the fracturing fluid including the water, agents, gels, and/or proppants) at high flow rates and/or high pressures through individual high-pressure discharge lines into two or more high-pressure flow lines, sometimes referred to as “missiles,” on the fracturing manifold 32. The flow from the high-pressure flow lines is combined at the fracturing manifold 32, and one or more of the high-pressure flow lines provide fluid flow to a manifold assembly 34, sometimes referred to as a “goat head.” The manifold assembly 34 delivers the slurry into a wellhead manifold 36. The wellhead manifold 36 may be configured to selectively divert the slurry to, for example, one or more wellheads 38 via operation of one or more valves. Once the fracturing process is ceased or completed, flow returning from the fractured formation discharges into a flowback manifold, and the returned flow may be collected in one or more flowback tanks as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

As schematically depicted in FIG. 2, one or more of the components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14 may be configured to be portable, so that the hydraulic fracturing system 14 may be transported to a well site, quickly assembled, operated for a relatively short period of time, at least partially disassembled, and transported to another location of another well site for use. For example, the components may be connected to and/or supported on a chassis 40, for example, a trailer and/or a support incorporated into a truck, so that they may be easily transported between well sites. In some embodiments, the prime mover 16, the transmission 18, and/or the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be connected to the chassis 40. For example, the chassis 40 may include a platform 42, and the transmission 18 may be connected to the platform 42, and the prime mover 16 may be connected to the transmission 18. In some embodiments, the prime mover 16 may be connected to the transmission 18 without also connecting the prime mover 16 directly to the platform 42, which may result in fewer support structures being needed for supporting the prime mover 16, transmission 18, and/or hydraulic fracturing pump 11 on the chassis 40.

In some embodiments, two or more hydraulic fracturing pumps 11 may be connected to the chassis 40. For example, the chassis 40 may include the prime mover 16 disposed or situated between two hydraulic fracturing pumps 11. In such examples, the prime mover 16 may be a dual-shaft electric motor, and each output shaft of the motor is connected to one of the hydraulic fracturing pumps 11. In some embodiments, the chassis 40 may include a plurality of prime movers 16 and hydraulic fracturing pumps 11. For example, the chassis 40 may include a first prime mover 16 mechanically linked to a first hydraulic fracturing pump 11 and a second prime mover 16 mechanically linked to a second hydraulic fracturing pump 11.

As shown in FIG. 2, some embodiments of the hydraulic fracturing system 14 may include one or more fuel supplies 44 for supplying the prime movers 16 and any other fuel-powered components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14, such as auxiliary equipment, with fuel. The fuel supplies 44 may include gaseous fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), natural gas, field gas, pipeline gas, methane, propane, butane, and/or liquid fuels, such as, for example, diesel fuel (e.g., #2 diesel), bio-diesel fuel, bio-fuel, alcohol, gasoline, gasohol, aviation fuel, and other fuels, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Gaseous fuels may be supplied by CNG bulk vessels, such as fuel tanks coupled to trucks, a gas compressor, a liquid natural gas vaporizer, line gas, and/or well-gas produced natural gas. The fuel may be supplied to the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 by one of more fuel lines supplying the fuel to a fuel manifold and unit fuel lines between the fuel manifold and the hydraulic fracturing units 10. Other types and associated fuel supply sources and arrangements are contemplated as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 2, some embodiments also may include one or more data centers 46 configured to facilitate receipt and transmission of data communications related to operation of one or more of the components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14. Such data communications may be received and/or transmitted via hard-wired communications cables and/or wireless communications, for example, according to known communications protocols. For example, the data centers 46 may contain at least some components of a hydraulic fracturing control assembly, such as a supervisory controller configured to receive signals from components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14 and/or communicate control signals to components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14, for example, to at least partially control operation of one or more components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14, such as, for example, the prime movers 16, the transmissions 18, and/or the hydraulic fracturing pumps 11 of the hydraulic fracturing units 10, the chemical additive units 22, the hydration units 26, the blender 28, the conveyers 30, the fracturing manifold 32, the manifold assembly 34, the wellhead manifold 36, and/or any associated valves, pumps, and/or other components of the hydraulic fracturing system 14.

FIG. 3A is a schematic side view of an example hydraulic fracturing unit 10, according to embodiments of the disclosure, and FIG. 3B is a schematic end view of the example hydraulic fracturing unit 10 shown in FIG. 3A, according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, the transmission 18 may include a transmission input shaft 48 connected to a prime mover output shaft 50 (e.g., a turbine output shaft), such that the transmission input shaft 48 rotates at the same rotational speed as the prime mover output shaft 50. The transmission 18 may also include a transmission output shaft 52 positioned to be driven by the transmission input shaft 48 at a different rotational speed than the transmission input shaft 48. In some embodiments, the transmission 18 may be a reduction transmission, such as a reduction gearbox, which results in the transmission output shaft 52 having a relatively slower rotational speed than the transmission input shaft 48. The transmission 18 may include a continuously variable transmission, an automatic transmission including one or more planetary gear trains, for example, as described herein, a transmission shiftable between different ratios of input-to-output, etc., or any other suitable of types of transmissions, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be, for example, a reciprocating fluid pump, as explained herein. In some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a pump drive shaft 54 connected to the transmission output shaft 52, such that the transmission output shaft 52 drives the pump drive shaft 54 at a desired rotational speed. For example, the transmission output shaft 52 may include an output shaft connection flange, and the pump drive shaft 54 may include a drive shaft connection flange, and the output shaft connection flange and the drive shaft connection flange may be coupled to one another, for example, directly connected to one another. In some embodiments, the transmission output shaft 52 and the pump drive shaft 54 may be connected to one another via any known coupling types as will be understood by those skilled in the art (e.g., such as a universal joint and/or a torsional coupling).

As shown in FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, the chassis 40 may be or include a trailer 56 including the platform 42 for supporting components of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10, one or more pairs of wheels 58 facilitating movement of the trailer 56, a pair of retractable supports 60 to support the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 during use, and a tongue 62 including a coupler 64 for connecting the trailer 56 to a truck for transport of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 between well sites to be incorporated into a hydraulic fracturing system 14 of a well site fracturing operation, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, and 3B, some embodiments of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 may include an enclosure 66 connected to and supported by the chassis 40 according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3A, the prime mover 16 may be connected to the transmission 18 via the prime mover output shaft 50 and the transmission input shaft 48, both of which may be substantially contained within the enclosure 66 (shown without doors or side panels to provide a view of the interior of the enclosure 66). The prime mover 16 may include an air intake duct 68 and a turbine exhaust duct 70 (e.g., when the prime mover is a GTE) passing through walls of the enclosure 66 and connected to the prime mover 16. The prime mover 16 may be connected to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 via the transmission 18, with the transmission output shaft 52 connected to the pump drive shaft 54, for example, as explained herein.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B, some embodiments of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may have physical dimensions configured such that the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 does not exceed the space available on the platform 42, for example, while still providing a desired pressure output and/or flow output to assist with performing the fracturing operation as explained herein. For example, referring to FIG. 3A, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may have a pump length dimension L substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis X of the platform 42 that facilitates placement and/or connection of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 on the platform 42, for example, without causing the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 to exceed a length permitted for transportation on public highways, for example, in compliance with government regulations. The pump length dimension L of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be greater than one meter (m). In some embodiments, the pump length dimension L may be from about 0.5 m to about 3 m, from about 0.75 m to about 2.5 m, or from about 1 m to about 2 m.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 3B, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may have a pump width dimension W substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis X of the platform 42 that facilitates placement and/or connection of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 on the platform 42, for example, without causing the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 to exceed a width permitted for transportation on public highways, for example, in compliance with government regulations. For example, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may have a pump width W perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the platform, such that the pump width W is less than or equal to the width of the platform WP, for example, as shown in FIG. 3B. In some embodiments, the pump width W may be at least 50%, at least 75%, or at least 90% of the width of the platform WP. For example, a ratio of the pump width W to the width of the platform WP, expressed as W: WP, may be from about 0.8:1, about 0.9:1, about 0.93:1, or about 0.95:1 to about 0.98:1, about 1:1, about 1.05:1, or about 1.1 to 1. As shown in FIG. 3B, in some embodiments, as viewed from the rear of the platform 42 and in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the platform 42, an end of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may take on the appearance of an inverted V, as explained in more detail herein.

FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of an example hydraulic fracturing pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a single power end 72 and respective first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b connected to the single power end 72. For example, the single power end 72 may include a pump frame 76, the crankshaft 78, and/or plungers 84 and/or 88. The first fluid end 74a and the second fluid end 74b may each be connected to the pump frame 76, for example, on opposite lateral sides of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 4A, the first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b may be connected to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, and the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be connected to the platform 42, such that the first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b are closer to the platform 42 than the power end 72. For example, the first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b may be relatively closer to the ground than if the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 was oriented such that the first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b were farther away from the platform 42 than the power end 72. The example orientation shown may render the fluid ends 74a and 74b relatively more easily accessible to operators and/or maintenance service personal, for example, during set-up of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 for a fracturing operation, take-down of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10, for example, once a fracturing operation is completed, and/or during maintenance or service of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10.

FIG. 4B is a schematic top view of the example hydraulic fracturing pump 11 shown in FIG. 4A, and FIG. 4C is a schematic bottom view of the example hydraulic fracturing pump 11 shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 4D is a schematic end view of the example hydraulic fracturing pump 11 shown in FIG. 4A, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include the pump frame 76, which may at least partially define a shaft aperture 77 and a crankshaft 78 extending through the shaft aperture 77. In some embodiments, the pump frame 76 may include a plurality of pump frame sections 80, and each of the pump frame sections 80 may at least partially define the shaft aperture(s) 77. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the example pump frame 76 includes five pump frame sections 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d, and 80e. Pump frames 76 having different numbers of pump frame sections 80 are contemplated. For example, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include the pump frame 76, which may include any suitable number of pump frame sections 80. In some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include from two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, or twelve pump frame sections 80. As shown in FIG. 4D, one or more of the pump frame sections 80 may have an inverted V-shaped cross-section as viewed in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the crankshaft CR. In some embodiments, one or more of the pump frame sections 80 may have an upright V-shaped cross-section as viewed in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the crankshaft CR. In some embodiments, one or more of the pump frame sections 80 may be connected to one another to form the pump frame 76, for example, via frame connectors 82 and/or the first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b. Though first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b are shown, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include three or more fluid ends. In some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include at least three fluid ends and at least three corresponding banks of plungers. For example, one or more pump frame sections 80 may have an inverted Y-shaped cross-section as viewed in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the crankshaft CR, wherein the third fluid end is disposed above the crankshaft 78. In other embodiments, the fracturing pump 11 may include four fluid ends and four corresponding banks of plungers. For example, one or more pump frame sections may have an X-shaped cross-section as viewed in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the crankshaft CR, wherein the third fluid end is disposed above the first fluid end 74a, and the fourth fluid end is disposed above the second fluid end 74b.

As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a plurality of first plungers 84 connected to the crankshaft 78 and positioned to reciprocate relative to the crankshaft 78 as the crankshaft 78 rotates. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a first bank 86 of four first plungers 84a, 84b, 84c, and 84d. In addition, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a plurality of second plungers 88 connected to the crankshaft 78 and positioned to reciprocate relative to the crankshaft 78 as the crankshaft 78 rotates. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a second bank 90 of four second plungers 88a, 88b, 88c, and 88d. Though four first plungers 84 and four second plungers 88 are shown, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include any suitable number of first and second plungers 84 and 88. In some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include from two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, or twelve first plungers 84 and from two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, or twelve second plungers 88.

Each of the of first plungers 84 may be configured to reciprocate and draw-in fracturing fluid at a first pressure and discharge the fracturing fluid at a second pressure greater than the first pressure. Each of the second plungers 88 may be configured to reciprocate and draw-in fracturing fluid at a third pressure and discharge the fracturing fluid at a fourth pressure greater than the third pressure. For example, the first pressure and/or the third pressure may be substantially equal to a pressure associated with the fracturing fluid being supplied to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 from the blender 28 (see FIG. 2). The second pressure and the fourth pressure may be substantially equivalent to the high pressure of the fracturing fluid being supplied to the wellhead 38 by operation of the prime mover 16, the transmission 18, and the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10. In some embodiments, the first pressure and the third pressure may be substantially the same. In some embodiments, the second pressure and the fourth pressure may be substantially the same. In some embodiments, the first pressure and the third pressure may be different, and/or the second pressure and the fourth pressure may be different.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 4D, each of the first plungers 84 may reciprocate in a first plane P1 and draw-in fracturing fluid at the first pressure and discharge the fracturing fluid at the second pressure, and/or each of the second plungers 88 may reciprocate in a second plane P2 and draw-in fracturing fluid at the third pressure and discharge the fracturing fluid at the fourth pressure. In some embodiments, the first plane P1 and the second plane P2 may intersect at the crankshaft axis CR and/or define an offset angle A between the first plane P1 and the second plane P2. For example, the offset angle A may range from zero degrees to three hundred-sixty degrees, for example, from about ten degrees to about three hundred degrees, from about thirty degrees to about one two hundred-seventy degrees, or from about forty-five degrees to about one hundred-eighty degrees. In some embodiments, the offset angle A between the first plane P1 and the second plane P2 may be a non-zero offset angle. For example, the offset angle A may range from about thirty degrees to about one hundred-eighty degrees, for example, from about ninety degrees to about one hundred-eighty degrees, from about thirty degrees to about one hundred-fifty degrees, from about forty-five degrees to about one hundred thirty-five degrees, from about sixty degrees to about one hundred-twenty degrees, or from about seventy-five degrees to about one hundred-five degrees, for example, about ninety degrees.

In some embodiments, providing the first and second plungers 84 and 88 in different planes may result in increasing the pumping capacity of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, for example, without substantially increasing the physical dimensions of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, for example, without substantially increasing the pump length L and/or without substantially increasing the pump width W. In some embodiments, providing the first and second plungers 84 and 88 in different planes may result in relatively reducing the level of shock and/or vibration associated with operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, for example, the level of shock and/or vibration associated with torque shock and/or torque vibration generated during operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, for example, as each of the first plungers 84 and/or each of the second plungers 88 discharges fracturing fluid at the second and fourth pressures, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the shock and/or torque generated by one or more of the first plungers 84 and/or one or more of the second plungers 88 may substantially offset or cancel one another.

As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, in some embodiments, the crankshaft 78 may include a plurality of crankpins 92, and each of the crankpins 92 may be substantially parallel to and offset from a longitudinal rotation axis RA of the crankshaft 78. In some embodiments, the crankshaft axis CR and the longitudinal rotation axis RA may be substantially co-existent. The crankpins 92 may be spaced from, but parallel to, the longitudinal rotation axis RA, such that as the crankshaft 78 rotates, the first plungers 84 and the second plungers 88 are caused to reciprocate, for example, in respective chambers of the first and second fluid ends 74a and 74b, for example, a distance equal to two times the offset of the respective crankpin 92 to which the plunger 84 or 88 is connected. In some embodiments, one or more of the crankpins 92 may be radially spaced from one another, for example, such that the respective reciprocations of the plungers occur according to a desired timing relative to one another. The crankshaft 78 may include any suitable number of crankpins 92. In some embodiments, the crankshaft 78 may include one, two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, or twelve or more crankpins 92. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, the example crankshaft 78 includes four crankpins 92. In some embodiments, each of the crankpins 92 may be radially offset relative to one another by, for example, ninety degrees. This may result in the respective reciprocations of the plungers being spaced from one another (e.g., rotationally spaced as the crankshaft 78 rotates). The spacing of the plunger reciprocations may result in at least some force cancellation due to the plungers 84 and 88 moving in different directions as more fully described below.

As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a plurality of connecting rods 94. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting rods 94 may include from two, three, four, five, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, twenty, or twenty-four or more connecting rods 94. For example, each of connecting rods 94 may connect one of the first plungers 84 to each of the plurality of crankpins 92 or one of the second plungers 88 to each of the of crankpins 92, for example, such that each of the crankpins 92 is connected to one of the first plungers 84 and one of the second plungers 88. For example, each of the connecting rods 94 may include an elongated rod body defining a longitudinal rod axis and having a plunger end connected to either one of the first plungers 84 or one of the second plungers 88, and a crank end connected to one of the crankpins 92. For example, each of the plunger ends may be connected to a respective plunger (84 or 88) via a pin that permits the plunger (84 or 88) to pivot with respect to the respective connecting rod 94 as the plunger (84 or 88) reciprocates in a chamber of a respective fluid end (74a or 74b), and each of the respective crank ends may be connected to a respective crankpin 92, such that the crankpin 92 is able to rotate freely relative to the respective crank end as the crankshaft 78, driven by the prime mover 16 and/or the transmission 18, rotates. As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, in some embodiments, a plurality of the connecting rods 94 may have a longitudinal rod axis offset from a longitudinal rod axis of another plurality of the connecting rods 94.

In some embodiments, the crankshaft 78 and/or the crankpins 92 may be configured such that different pairs of the first and second plungers 84 and 88 are in different locations along their respective stroke paths as the crankshaft 78 rotates. In some embodiments, the crankshaft 78 and/or the crankpins 92 may be configured such that different pairs of first and second plungers 84 and 88 of the first and second banks of plungers 86 and 90 and are offset by the crankpins 92, for example, in some embodiments, the plungers of the first and third pairs of plungers shown in the drawings may be offset from each other by the crankpins 92 by about ninety degrees, for example, and may move in different directions, for example, along an intake stroke direction toward the crankshaft 78 for drawing-in fracturing fluid and a discharge stroke direction away from the crankshaft 78 for discharging fracturing fluid. For example, a first pair of plungers may include a first one of the first plungers 84 (e.g., first plunger 84a) and a first one of the second plungers 88 (e.g., second plunger 88a), and a second pair of plungers may include a second one of the first plungers 84 (e.g., first plunger 84b) and a second one of the second plungers 88 (e.g., second plunger 88b), and the crankshaft 78 may be configured such that the first pair of plungers moves in a first direction to discharge at least a portion of the fracturing fluid while the second pair of plungers moves in a second direction to draw-in at least a portion of the fracturing fluid. In some embodiments, each of the pairs of first and second plungers 84 and 88 may be connected to a common crankpin 92 of the crankshaft 78. In some embodiments, different pairs and/or additional pairs of the first and second plungers 84 and 88 may similarly move in different directions. This example movement of plunger pairs in different directions may result in relatively reducing the level of shock and/or vibration associated with operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, for example, the level of shock and/or vibration associated with torque shock and/or torque vibration generated during operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, for example, as each of the first plungers 84 and/or each of the second plungers 88 discharges fracturing fluid at the second and fourth pressures, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the shock and/or torque generated by one or more of the pairs of first and second plungers 84 and 88 may substantially offset or cancel one another.

As shown in FIG. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, in some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may include a first pinion gear 96 engaged with the crankshaft 78, for example, via a first drive gear 98, at a first end 100 of the pump frame 76, and a connector shaft 102 connected to the first pinion gear 96. In some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 also may include a second pinion gear 104 connected to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 at a second end 106 of the pump frame 76 and connected to the first pinion gear 96 via the connector shaft 102. In some such embodiments, the first pinion gear 96 may drive the connector shaft 102 and the crankshaft 78 at the first end 100 of the pump frame 76. The connector shaft 102 may transfer the torque from the first pinion gear 96 and drive the second pinion gear 104 at the second end 106 of the pump frame 76. The second pinion gear 104 may drive the crankshaft 78 at the second end 106 of the pump frame 76, for example, via a second drive gear 108.

In some such embodiments, because the crankshaft 78 is driven at both ends, the torque tending to twist the crankshaft 78 may be relatively reduced as compared to a crankshaft that is driven at one end. This may result in an ability to drive the crankshaft 78 with relatively more torque and/or power without damaging the crankshaft 78 (e.g., for a crankshaft of a given strength) and/or adversely affecting operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11. In some embodiments, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be configured to be driven by one or more prime movers 16 located at opposite ends of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11. For example, the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 may be driven by one or more prime movers 16 from each of both the first end 100 and the second end 106 of the pump frame 76, for example, via the first pinion gear 96 and the second pinion gear 104. For example, a second prime mover may be connected to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 at an end of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11 opposite a first prime mover 16, for example, via a second transmission, to supply power to the hydraulic fracturing pump 11.

During operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, the prime mover 16 of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 may supply power, so as to drive rotation of the crankshaft 78, and as the crankshaft 78 is rotated, the first plungers 84 of the first bank of plungers 86 and the second plungers 88 of the second bank of plungers 90 accordingly will be reciprocated in an alternating fashion in opposite directions toward and away from respective fluid chambers of their respective fluid ends 74a and 74b. For example, one or more of the first plungers 84 of the first bank of plungers 86 may be moved in a first, substantially downward direction along a discharge stroke, so as to discharge at least a portion of fracturing fluid contained within the chamber of the first fluid end 74a. The discharged fluid may be directed out of the respective chamber of the first fluid end 74a and via a fluid output conduit 110a (FIGS. 4B and 4C). Substantially simultaneously or concurrently, one or more of second plungers 88 of the second bank of plungers 90 may be moved in a second, substantially upward direction along an intake stroke to draw-in at least a portion of fracturing fluid into the respective chamber of the second fluid end 74b. The fracturing fluid may be drawn into the chamber via a fluid inlet conduit 112b, which may be fluidly connected to a source or supply of the fracturing fluid (see, e.g., FIG. 2). Thereafter, as the crankshaft 78 continues to rotate, one or more of the second plungers 88 of the second bank of plungers 90 may be moved in a substantially downward direction along a discharge stroke, so as to discharge at least a portion of fracturing fluid contained within the chamber of the second fluid end 74b. The discharged fluid may be directed out of the respective chamber of the second fluid end 74b and via a fluid output conduit 110b. Substantially simultaneously or concurrently, one or more of first plungers 84 of the first bank of plungers 86 may be moved in a substantially upward direction along an intake stroke to draw-in at least a portion of fracturing fluid into the respective chamber of the first fluid end 74a. The fracturing fluid may be drawn into the chamber via a fluid inlet conduit 112a, which may be fluidly connected to a source or supply of the fracturing fluid. In some embodiments, different pairs and/or multiple pairs of the first and second plungers 84 and 88 may be configured to similarly move in different directions, which may further help reduce a level of shock and/or vibration associated with the operation of the hydraulic fracturing pump 11, such as when each of the first plungers 84 and/or each of the second plungers 88 discharges the fracturing fluid at different pressures.

As noted above, high-power pumps, such as, for example, those described above with respect to FIGS. 1-4D, may be configured (e.g., sized) to achieve relatively higher pump outputs. As a result, such high-power pumps may be relatively larger and heavier, for example, as noted herein, even though, in at least some embodiments, the high-power pumps may be transportable between different geographic locations. Larger and heavier pumps, however, may include larger and heavier components, and thus, Applicant has recognized that this may render it challenging to assemble, disassemble, and/or service such pumps. For example, it may be difficult to lift, properly orient, position, and/or assemble relatively larger and heavier components of the pump during assembly, disassembly, and/or maintenance, such as, for example, the one or more fluid ends of the pump. At least some embodiments of the assemblies, apparatuses, and methods described herein may be used for assembly, disassembly, and/or maintenance of high-power pumps. For example, in some embodiments, assemblies, apparatuses, and methods described herein may facilitate lifting, orienting, and/or positioning large pump components during assembly, disassembly, and/or maintenance of, for example, one or more fluid ends, of the high-power pumps.

FIG. 5 is a schematic partial perspective side view of an example hydraulic fracturing unit 10 including an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11, and an example fluid end handling system 12, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 6A is a schematic end view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11, and FIG. 6B is a schematic end view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11 shown in FIG. 6A, with an example fluid end handling system 12 shown being used to assemble (or disassemble and/or service) an example fluid end 74 relative to a pump frame 76 of the high-power pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 6C is a schematic perspective view of the example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11 shown in FIG. 6A, with an example fluid end handling system 12 shown being used to assemble (or disassemble and/or service) an example fluid end 74 relative to a pump frame 76 of the high-power pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 7 is a schematic partial perspective close-up view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11, with an example fluid end handling system 12 shown being used to assemble, or disassemble, an example fluid end 74 relative to a pump frame of the high-power pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, and 7 in some embodiments, the fluid end handling system 12 may include, for example, a lift adaptor 120 and a support frame 122. The lift adaptor 120 may include a lift connector 124 (see, e.g., FIGS. 7, 10B, and 10C) configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor 120 and the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76 of the pump 11. The lifting mechanism may include, for example, a fork truck, a telehandler, a hoist, a crane, and/or any other lifting mechanism capable of moving the lift adaptor 120 into position and/or raising and supporting the lift adaptor 120 and the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76. In some embodiments, the lift connector 124 may include, for example, a lifting sleeve (see, e.g., FIGS. 7, 10B, and 10C) configured to receive a fork of a fork truck or a telehandler and/or a lifting eye configured to be connected to one or more of a crane or a hoist.

In some embodiments, the lift adaptor 120 further may include a fluid end support 126 (see, e.g., FIGS. 7, 10B, and 10C) configured to support the fluid end 74 and orient the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76 for assembly and removal of the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76. For example, the fluid end support 126 may have a cross-section viewed in a direction along the length of the fluid end 74 when the lift adaptor 120 is engaged with and/or supporting the fluid end 74, and the cross-section may have a substantially triangular shape. For example, the fluid end support 126 may include a fluid end support face 128 configured to be positioned to face and abut an outer surface 130 of the fluid end 74 opposite an inner surface 132 of the fluid end 74 to which the pump frame 76 is connected once the fluid end 74 is connected to the pump frame 76. In some embodiments, the fluid end support face 128 may extend obliquely relative to the lift connector 124, for example, as shown. For example, the fluid end support face 128 may form a face angle FA (see FIG. 7) with respect to the lift connector 124 ranging from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees, for example, from about 20 degrees to about 80 degrees, from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 35 degrees to about 55 degrees, or from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees (e.g., about 45 degrees). In some embodiments, the face angle FA may be selected or tailored depending on, for example, the angle at which the fluid end 74 attaches to the pump frame 76, for example, relative to a plane defined by, for example, the power end 72 (e.g., a vertical plane).

FIG. 8 is a schematic partial perspective assembly view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11 and an example support frame 122 of an example fluid end handling system 12, according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the support frame 122 may be configured to be connected to the pump frame 76 of the pump 11 and support the pump frame 76 above the surface on which the pump frame 76 is supported and/or mounted, such as, for example, the mobile chassis of a hydraulic fracturing unit 10 and/or the surface or fixture on which the pump 11 is being assembled, disassembled, and/or serviced.

As shown in FIG. 8, some embodiments of the support frame 122 may include a first end frame member 134 and a second end frame member 136 at an opposite end of the support frame 122. The support frame 122 further may include a frame member connector 138 connecting the first end frame member 134 and the second end frame member 136 to one another and extending along a longitudinal axis of the support frame SF. As shown in FIG. 8, some embodiments may include one or more additional frame member connectors 138. In some embodiments, the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136 may have a substantially planar configuration, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, extending transverse (e.g., perpendicular) with respect to the longitudinal axis of the support frame SF.

As shown in FIG. 8, one or more of the first end frame member 134 or the second end frame member 136 may include a pump frame connector 140, which may serve as a power end connector, positioned and configured to connect the support frame 122, either directly or indirectly, to a lower portion of the pump frame 76 of the high-power pump 11. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the pump frame 76, in some embodiments, may include one or more pump frame legs 142 extending from the pump frame 76, for example, from opposite end frame sections 80 of the pump frame 76 (see FIG. 4A). In some embodiments, the pump frame connector 140 may include a connection surface 144 positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame 76, for example, the pump frame legs 142, and one or more protrusions 146 on the connection surface 144 positioned to locate the lower portion of the pump frame 76 relative to the connection surface 144. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the lower portion of the pump frame 76 may include a corresponding one or more grooves 148 positioned and configured to engage with the one or more protrusions 146 on the connection surface 144. Such engagement may assist with the proper relative location of the pump frame 76 on the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136. As shown, the pump frame connectors 140 and/or the lower portion of the pump frame 76 may include connection holes 150 for receipt of fasteners (e.g., bolts) to secure the support frame 122 and the pump frame 76 to one another. In some embodiments, the connection surface 144 may include one or more grooves, and the lower portion of the pump frame 76 may include a corresponding one or more protrusions assist with the proper relative location of the pump frame 76 on the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136.

In some embodiments, the support frame 122 may include one or more uprights 151 (see, e.g., FIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B) configured to space the pump frame 76 and/or the fluid ends 74 from a platform on which the pump frame 76 and/or the fluid ends 74 are mounted or a base on which the pump frame 76 and/or fluid end 74 are supported, such as the platform 42 of the hydraulic fracturing unit 10 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B).

As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the support frame 122 may include a ramp 152 having a ramp face 154 extending in a direction to facilitate assembly of a fluid end 74 of the pump 11 to the pump frame 76 of the pump 11. For example, the first end frame member 134 and the second end frame member 136 may each include a ramp 152 having a ramp face 154, as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the connection surface 144 may extend in a first direction, and the ramp face 154 may extend in a second direction oblique with respect to the first direction, for example, as shown in FIG. 8. For example, the connection surface 144 may extend in a substantially horizontal direction, for example, when the pump 11 is mounted on a surface for operation, and the ramp face 154 may extend in a direction oblique with respect to the horizontal direction.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, in some embodiments, the pump 11 may include a plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 connected to the pump frame 76 and extending in a first direction, for example, substantially along, and/or substantially parallel with respect to, the first plane P1 (see, e.g., FIG. 4D) in which the first plungers 84 reciprocate, and/or extending in a second direction, for example, substantially along, and/or substantially parallel with respect to, the second plane P2 (see, e.g., FIG. 4D) in which the second plungers 88 reciprocate. In some embodiments, the ramp face 154 may extend in a direction substantially along, and/or substantially parallel with respect to, the direction in which the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 extend.

FIG. 9A is a schematic partial end view of an example high-power hydraulic fracturing pump 11 and an example fluid end handling system 12 with an example fluid end 74 being assembled to the example pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 9B is a schematic partial end view of the example pump 11 and example fluid end handling system 12 shown in FIG. 9A with the example fluid end 74 assembled to the example pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 6B and 8, in some embodiments, the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136 of the support frame 122 may include an actuator connector 158 associated with the ramp 152 and positioned to connect to an actuator 160 (FIGS. 6B, 6C, and 7). In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6B, 6C, 9A, and 9B, the actuator connector 158 may include a pivotable support fixture 162 configured to pivot between a first orientation to facilitate connection of the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 and a second orientation during operation of the pump 11. For example, FIGS. 6A and 9B show embodiments including pivotable support fixtures 162 in the second orientation in which the pivotable support fixtures 162 are positioned to support respective conduits (e.g., fluid output conduits 110a and 110b (see, e.g., FIGS. 4A-4D)) associated with the pump 11. FIG. 6B shows a first pivotable support fixture 162a in a first orientation supporting an actuator 160, and a second pivotable support fixture 162b in a second orientation supporting an output conduit 110. FIG. 9A shows a pivotable support fixture 162 in a first orientation supporting an actuator 160, and FIG. 9B shows the pivotable support fixture 162 in the second orientation supporting an output conduit 110. As shown in FIGS. 6B, 6C, and 9A, in some embodiments, the pivotable support fixture 162, in the first orientation, may be configured to provide an extension of the ramp face 154 of the support frame 122. This may facilitate assembly of a fluid end 74 to the pump frame 76, for example, as described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some embodiments, the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136 of the support frame 122 may include an end frame face 164 facing in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame SF (FIG. 8), and the end frame face 164 may at least partially define a fixture recess 166 positioned receive the pivotable support fixture 162 in the first orientation and the second orientation. For example, the fixture recess 166 may be at least partially defined by a support wall 168 configured to support the pivotable support fixture 162 in the second orientation. In some embodiments, the pivotable support fixture 162 may be connected to the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136 via one or more fasteners (e.g., one or more bolts).

In some embodiments, the pivotable support fixture 162 may include one or more attachment features (e.g., one or more holes and/or one or more studs) configured to connect the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162. For example, the pivotable support fixture 162 may include a fixture body 170 having a first end 172 connected to the first end frame member 134 or the second end frame member 136, and a second end 174 opposite the first end 172. The fixture body 170 may extend extending between the first end 172 and the second end 174 and define therebetween a longitudinal axis of the fixture body 170. In some embodiments, the fixture body 170 may include an aperture configured to receive therein a complimentary protrusion connected to the actuator 160, such that the actuator 160 may be quickly connected to the pivotable support fixture 162 (in the first orientation) and used to propel the fluid end 74 along the ramp face 154 on the support frame 122, onto the fluid end connection studs 156, and into position on the pump frame 76, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, the fixture body 170 may include a protrusion configured to engage a complimentary aperture in the actuator 160, such that the actuator 160 may be quickly connected to the pivotable support fixture 162 in the first orientation.

In at least some such embodiments, the support fixture 162 may serve at least two purposes. First, the support fixture 162, in the first orientation, may be used during assembly or disassembly of a fluid ends 74 to the pump frame 76, for example, as described herein. In the second orientation, the pivotable support fixture 162 may be used to support one or more fluid conduits, for example, as described herein.

FIG. 10A is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump 11 and an example support frame 122 with the example pump 11 not including a fluid end connected to an example pump frame 76, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 10B is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump 11 and example support frame 122 shown in FIG. 10A, with an example fluid end 74 supported by an example lift adaptor 120, with the example fluid end 74 separated from example fluid end connection studs 156 connected to an example pump frame 76 of the pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 10C is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump 11, example support frame 122, example fluid end 74, and example lift adaptors 120 shown in FIG. 10B, with example actuators 160 moving the example fluid end 74 closer to engagement with the example fluid end connection studs 156, according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 10D is a partial schematic perspective view of the example pump 11, example support frame 122, and example fluid end 74 shown in FIG. 10C, with the example lift adaptors 120 removed, and the fluid end 74 engaged with example fluid end connection studs 156 of the pump 11, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 10A-10D, the ramp 152 of the support frame 122 may extend and form the actuator connector 158. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10A, the ramp 152 of the support frame 122 may at least partially define one or more apertures 175 configured to receive therein a complimentary protrusion connected to the actuator 160, such that the actuator 160 may be quickly connected to the actuator connector 158 of the support frame 122 and used to propel the fluid end 74 along the ramp face 154 on the support frame 122, onto the fluid end connection studs 156, and into position on the pump frame 76, for example, as described herein.

As shown in FIG. 8, some embodiments of the support frame 122 may include one or more intermediate frame members 176 connected to the one or more frame member connectors 138 between the first end frame member 134 and the second end frame member 136. The intermediate frame member 176 may include an intermediate connection surface 178 positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame 76. As shown in FIG. 8, the first end frame member 134, the second end frame member 136, and/or the one or more intermediate frame members 176 may at least partially define a connection aperture 180 for receiving therein the one or more frame member connectors 138 and connecting the one or more frame member connectors 138 to the first end frame member 134, the second end frame member 136, and/or the one or more intermediate frame members 176, for example, as shown in FIG. 8.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 10A-10D, the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136 may include (or be connected to) a frame base 182 positioned and configured to support the support frame 122 and the pump 11 on a surface on which the pump frame 122 and the pump 11 is supported and/or mounted, such as, for example, the mobile chassis of a hydraulic fracturing unit 10 and/or the surface or fixture on which the pump 11 is being assembled, disassembled, and/or serviced. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 9, for example, one or more of the ramps 152 of the support frame 122 may include a fluid end connection feature 184 configured to be connected to the fluid end 74 of the pump 11, for example, once the fluid end 74 has been moved into an assembled position relative to the pump frame 76. For example, the fluid end connection feature 184 may include one or more holes 186 for receipt therein of one or more fasteners (e.g., bolts) for securing the fluid end 74 to the support frame 122, which may enhance the rigidity of the pump 11, for example, once the fluid end 74 has been assembled to the pump frame 76.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, each of the first end frame member 134 and the second end frame member 136 may include a pump frame connector (e.g., a power end connector) positioned to connect the support frame 122 to a lower portion of the pump frame 76 of the pump 11. In some embodiments, each of the first end frame member 134 and the second end frame member 136 may include a ramp 152 having a ramp face 154 extending in a direction to facilitate connection of the fluid end 74 to the pump frame 76 (e.g., to the power end 72) of the pump 11. In some embodiments, each of the first end frame member 134 and the second end frame member 136 may include an actuator connector 158 associated with the ramp 152 and positioned to connect to an actuator 160, for example, as shown in FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8, one or more of the first end frame member 134 or the second end frame member 136 may include two pump frame connectors 140 (e.g., power end connectors), two ramps 152, each having a ramp face 154, and/or two actuator connectors 158 configured to be connected to an actuator 160. In some embodiments, the first end frame member 134 and/or the second end frame member 136 may have bilateral symmetry, for example, when viewed in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame SF, for example, as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the intermediate frame member 176 may have bilateral symmetry, for example, when viewed in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame SF, for example, as shown in FIG. 8.

In some embodiments, the fluid end handling system 12 may include one or more actuators 160 connected to: (a) the support frame 122 via respective actuator connectors 158 and (b) a fluid end 74. For example, the one or more actuators 160 may be positioned and configured to move the fluid end 74 along the ramp 152 (e.g., up the ramp 152, for example, as shown) during assembly of the fluid end 74 to the pump frame 11 and/or the power end 72 of the pump 11. In some embodiments, the pump frame 76 may include therein the power end 72, and the one or more actuators 160 may be positioned and configured to (a) move the fluid end 74 up the ramp 152 toward the power end 72 during assembly of the fluid end 74 to the power end 72, and/or (b) lower the fluid end 74 down the ramp 152 during disassembly of the fluid end 74 from the power end 72. The one or more actuators 160 may include a linear actuator and/or a rotary actuator, such as, for example, a jackscrew, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, and/or an electric linear actuator. For example, one or more of the actuators 160 may include a jackscrew, and the fluid end handling system 12 further may include a gear-reduction device, an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, and/or a hydraulic motor connected to the jackscrew to drive the jackscrew. In some embodiments, the gear-reduction device may be manually driven to drive a jackscrew. For example, a gear-reduction device may be connected each of the jackscrews, and the gear-reduction devices may be manually operated or driven, for example, by hand.

According to some embodiments, the fluid end handling system 12 may be used to assemble, disassemble, and/or service components of a high-power pump. For example, the fluid end handling system 12 may be used to assemble a fluid end 74 to a pump 11, for example, such as the high-power pumps described herein, as well as others. In some embodiments, the fluid end handling system 12 may be used to disassemble a fluid end 74 from a pump 11, for example, such as the high-power pumps described herein, as well as others. In some embodiments, the fluid end handling system 12 may be used to service a fluid end 74 of a pump 11, for example, such as the high-power pumps described herein, as well as others.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 5-7 and 10A-10D, a method for assembling a fluid end 74 to a pump frame 76 of a pump 11 may include associating one or more lift adaptors 120 with the fluid end 74, thereby to orient the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76 of the pump 11 (see, e.g., FIG. 7). In some embodiments, two lift adaptors 120 may be associated with opposite ends of the fluid end 74, although, in some embodiments, more than two lift adaptors 120 may be associated with the fluid end 74. The method further may include positioning the fluid end 74 adjacent the pump frame 76 and oriented for mounting the fluid end 74 on a plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 connected to the pump frame 76 and extending in a first direction (see, e.g., FIG. 10B). For example, in some embodiments of the pump 11, the fluid end 74 may include a pump frame face (e.g., an inner surface 132 of the fluid end 74, for example, as shown in FIG. 6B) configured to be adjacent the pump frame 76 when the fluid end 74 is connected to the pump frame 76. In at least some such embodiments, associating the lift adaptor 120 with the fluid end 74 may include supporting the fluid end 74 on the lift adaptor 120, for example, such that the pump frame face of the fluid end 74 is substantially perpendicular relative to the first direction in which the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 extend from the pump frame 76 (FIG. 6B). In some embodiments, positioning the fluid end 74 adjacent the pump frame 76 and oriented for mounting the fluid end 74 on the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 may include lifting the fluid end 74 via the one or more lift adaptors 120 and a lifting mechanism, such that the pump frame face of the fluid end 74 is substantially perpendicular with respect to the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, positioning the fluid end 74 adjacent the pump frame 76 may include positioning the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76 while the pump frame 76 is mounted on a mobile chassis, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, positioning the fluid end 74 adjacent the pump frame 76 may include positioning the fluid end 74 relative to the pump frame 76 while the power end 72 is separated from a mobile chassis.

In some embodiments, the method for assembling further may include connecting one or more actuators 160 to the fluid end 74 and a support frame 122 on which the pump frame 76 is mounted. In some embodiments, two actuators 160 may be connected to the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122 at opposite ends of the fluid end 74 and/or the support frame 122, although, in some embodiments, more than two actuators 160 may be connected to the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122. As described herein, in some embodiments, the support frame 122 may include a ramp 152 having a ramp surface 154 (see, e.g., FIG. 7) extending in a direction substantially aligned with (and/or parallel to) the first direction in which the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 extend from the pump frame 76. In some embodiments, connecting the one or more actuators 160 to the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122 may include connecting respective actuator connectors 158 to the support frame 122, and connecting respective first portions of the one or more actuators 160 to the actuator connectors 158. In some embodiments, the actuator connector 158 may be connected to the support frame 122 and/or may be an integral part of the support frame 122, for example, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10D. For example, the support frame 122 and/or the actuator connector 158 may include one or more apertures 175 configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of (and/or connected to) the actuator 160, and connecting the actuator 160 to the actuator connector 158 may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuator 160 into the one or apertures 175. In some embodiments, the actuator connector 158 may include one or more protrusions, the actuator 160 may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuator 160 to the actuator connector 158 may include mounting the actuator 160 on the actuator connector 158, such that the one or more protrusions of the actuator connector 158 are received in the apertures of the actuator 160.

In some embodiments, the method for assembling further may include connecting respective second portions of the one or more actuators 160 to the fluid end 74. For example, the one or more actuators 160 may include respective jackscrews, and the screw portions of the respective jackscrews may be connected to the fluid end 74, for example, threadedly connected to the fluid end 74 via engagement between the screw portions of the jackscrews and jackscrew-receiving holes in the fluid end 74. Other types of actuators and attachments are contemplated, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 9A, and 9B, connecting the actuator 160 to the support frame 122 may include disconnecting a fluid conduit from a pivotable support fixture 162 and pivoting the pivotable support fixture 162 from a first orientation in which the pivotable support fixture 162 supports a fluid conduit (see, e.g., FIG. 6A) to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture 162 extends the ramp 152 of the support frame 122 (see, e.g., FIG. 6B). Thereafter, in some embodiments, connecting the actuator 160 to the support frame 122 may include connecting the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 (e.g., serving as an actuator connector 158). For example, the pivotable support fixture 162 may include one or more apertures (e.g., at least similar to the apertures 175) configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of (and/or connected to) the actuator 160, and connecting the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuator 160 into the one or apertures of the pivotable support fixture 162. In some embodiments, the pivotable support fixture 162 may include one or more protrusions, the actuator 160 may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 may include mounting the actuator 160 on the pivotable support fixture 162, such that the one or more protrusions of the pivotable support fixture 162 are received in the apertures of the actuator 160.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 6B, 6C, 9A, 10C, and 10D, the method for assembling may include activating the one or more actuators 160, and moving, via activation of the one or more actuators 160, the fluid end 74 along the ramp 152 (e.g., up the ramp 152) toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156. In some embodiments, moving the fluid end 74 along the ramp 152 toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs 152 may include extending the one or more actuators 160. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more actuators 160 may include one or more jackscrews, and extending the one or more actuators 160 may include rotating one or more respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews. In some embodiments, rotating the one or more respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews may include activating one or more respective motors connected to the one or more inputs to the one or more jackscrews. Other types of actuators and inputs are contemplated, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, a gear-reduction device may be connected each of the jackscrews, and the gear-reduction devices may be manually operated or driven, for example, by hand.

The method for assembling further may include securing the fluid end 74 to the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156, for example, via nuts configured to threadedly engage each of the fluid end connection studs 156, for example, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the method for assembling further may include mounting the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122 to a support base (e.g., a frame base 182) configured to raise the power end 72 relative to a surface on which the support base is positioned. In some embodiments, this may include securing the fluid end 74 to the support frame 122 via one or more fasteners, such as one or more bolts. This may enhance the rigidity of the pump 11 once assembled and during operation.

In some embodiments, once the fluid end 74 has been secured to one or more of the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156, some embodiments of the method for assembling may include separating the one or more actuators 160 from the respective actuator connectors 158 and/or the fluid end 74. In embodiments having pivoting support fixtures 162, the method may include pivoting the one or more pivotable support fixtures 162 into an orientation for supporting one or more fluid conduits, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, for example, for a pump 11 having two (or more) fluid ends 74 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-4D), the method for assembling the fluid end 74 to the pump 11 may be repeated to assemble one or more additional fluid ends 74 to the pump 11. For example, the pump 11 may include two banks of plungers and two (or more) respective fluid ends 74, and assembling the two (or more) fluid ends 74 to the pump frame 76 of the pump 11 may include assembling a first fluid end 74 to the pump frame 76 and assembling a second fluid end 74 to the pump frame 76, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, a method for disassembling a fluid end 74 from a pump frame 76 (and/or from a power end 72) of a pump 11 may include connecting one or more actuators 160 to a fluid end 74 and a support frame 122 on which a pump frame 76 is mounted. In some embodiments, two actuators 160 may be connected to the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122 at opposite ends of the fluid end 74 and/or the support frame 122, although, in some embodiments, more than two actuators 160 may be connected to the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122.

In some embodiments, the support frame 122 may include a ramp 152 having a ramp surface 154 extending in a direction substantially aligned with (and/or parallel to) a first direction in which a plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 extend from the pump frame 76. In some embodiments, connecting the actuator 160 to the fluid end 74 and the support frame 122 may include connecting an actuator connector 158 to the support frame 122, and connecting a first portion of the actuator 160 to the actuator connector 158. In some embodiments, the actuator connector 158 may be connected to the support frame 122 and/or may be an integral part of the support frame 122. For example, the support frame 122 and/or the actuator connector 158 may include one or more apertures 175 configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of (and/or connected to) the actuator 160, and connecting the actuator 160 to the actuator connector 158 may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuator 160 into the one or apertures 175. In some embodiments, the actuator connector 158 may include one or more protrusions, the actuator 160 may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuator 160 to the actuator connector 158 may include mounting the actuator 160 on the actuator connector 158, such that the one or more protrusions of the actuator connector 158 are received in the apertures of the actuator 160. The method for disassembling further may include connecting respective second portions of the one or more actuators 160 from the fluid end 74. In some embodiments, the one or more actuators 160 may include respective jackscrews, and respective screw portions of the jackscrews may be connected to the fluid end 74, for example, threadedly connected to the fluid end 74 via engagement between the respective screw portions of the jackscrews and jackscrew-receiving holes in the fluid end 74. Other types of actuators and attachments are contemplated, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, connecting the actuator 160 to the support frame 122 may include disconnecting a fluid conduit from a pivotable support fixture 162 and pivoting the pivotable support fixture 162 from a first orientation in which the pivotable support fixture 162 supports a fluid conduit to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture 162 extends the ramp 152 of the support frame 122. Thereafter, in some embodiments, connecting the actuator 160 to the support frame 122 may include connecting the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 (e.g., serving as an actuator connector 158). For example, the pivotable support fixture 162 may include one or more apertures (e.g., at least similar to the apertures 175) configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of (and/or connected to) the actuator 160, and connecting the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuator 160 into the one or apertures of the pivotable support fixture 162. In some embodiments, the pivotable support fixture 162 may include one or more protrusions, the actuator 160 may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuator 160 to the pivotable support fixture 162 may include mounting the actuator 160 on the pivotable support fixture 162, such that the one or more protrusions of the pivotable support fixture 162 are received in the apertures of the actuator 160.

Some embodiments of the method for disassembling may further include disconnecting a plurality of fluid end connection studs 156 of the pump 11 from the fluid end 74. This may include, for example, removing a respective plurality of nuts from ends of the fluid end connection studs 156. Thereafter, the method also may include activating the one or more actuators 160, and moving, via activation of the one or more actuators 160, the fluid end 74 along the ramp 152 (e.g., down the ramp 152), thereby separating the fluid end 74 from the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156. In some embodiments, moving the fluid end 74 along the ramp 152 may include retracting the one or more actuators 160. For example, the one or more actuators 160 may each include a jackscrew, and retracting the one or more actuators 160 may include rotating respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews. In some embodiments, rotating the respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews may include activating one or more motors connected to the respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews.

In some embodiments, once the fluid end 74 has moved along the ramp 152 a distance sufficient for the fluid end 74 to become disengaged and/or separated from the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156, the method for disassembling further may include engaging one or more lift adaptors 120 with a lifting mechanism, and associating the one or more lift adaptors 120 with the fluid end 74, thereby to engage the fluid end 74, such that the fluid end 74 maintains an orientation relative to the pump frame 76 and/or the power end 72. For example, the one or more lift adaptors 120 may include two or more lift adaptors 120, and the lifting mechanism may include a fork of a fork truck, telehandler, or similar machine, and the forks may engage respective lift connectors 124 of the lift adaptors 120, thereby to support the lift adaptors 120 and the fluid end 74. In some embodiments, the fluid end 74 may include a pump frame face (e.g., an inner surface 132 of the fluid end 74) configured to be adjacent the pump frame 76 when the fluid end 74 is connected to the pump frame 76. In at least some such embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors 120 with the fluid end 74 may include supporting the fluid end 74 on the one or more lift adaptors 120, such that the pump frame face of the fluid end 74 is substantially perpendicular relative to the first direction of the plurality of fluid end connection studs 156.

In some embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors 120 with the fluid end 74 may include positioning the one or more lift adaptors 120 relative to the fluid end 74 while the pump frame 76 is mounted on a mobile chassis. In some embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors 120 with the fluid end 74 may include positioning the one or more lift adaptors 120 while the pump frame 76 is separated from a mobile chassis, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors 120 with the fluid end 74 may include positioning the one or more lift adaptors 120 while the pump frame 76 is mounted to a support base configured to raise the pump frame 76 relative to a surface on which the support base is positioned.

In some embodiments, once the one or more lift adaptors 120 have been associated with the fluid end 74 to support the fluid end 74, the method for disassembling further may include separating the one or more actuators 160 from the respective actuator connectors 158 and/or the fluid end 74. The method also may include separating, via the one or more lift adaptors 120 and the lift mechanism, the fluid end 74 from the pump frame 76 and/or the power end 72.

In some embodiments, for example, for a pump 11 having two (or more) fluid ends 74 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-4D), the method for disassembling the fluid end 74 from the pump 11 may be repeated to disassemble one or more additional fluid ends 74 from the pump 11. For example, the pump 11 may include two banks of plungers and two (or more) respective fluid ends 74, and disassembling the two (or more) fluid ends 74 from the pump frame 76 of the pump 11 may include disassembling a first fluid end 74 from the pump frame 76 and disassembling a second fluid end 74 from the pump frame 76.

FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B are a block diagram of an example method 1100 for assembling a fluid end to a pump, such as, for example, to a pump frame and/or a power end of a high-power pump, such as the high-power pumps described herein, as well as others. The example method 1100 is illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow graph, which represent a sequence of operations. In some embodiments of the method 1100, one or more of the blocks may be manually and/or automatically executed. In the context of software, where applicable, the blocks may represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular data types. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the method.

As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, an example method 1100 for assembling a fluid end to a pump may include, at 1102 (see FIG. 11A), associating one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end, thereby to position and/or orient the fluid end relative to the pump frame of the pump. In some embodiments, two lift adaptors may be associated with opposite ends of the fluid end, although, in some embodiments, more than two lift adaptors may be associated with the fluid end, for example, as described herein.

At 1104, the example method 1100 may include positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame and oriented for mounting the fluid end on a plurality of fluid end connection studs connected to the pump frame and extending in a first direction. For example, in some embodiments of the pump, the fluid end may include a pump frame face configured to be adjacent the pump frame when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame. In at least some such embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end may include supporting the fluid end on the one or more lift adaptors, for example, such that the pump frame face of the fluid end is substantially perpendicular relative to the first direction in which the plurality of fluid end connection studs extend from the pump frame. In some embodiments, positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame and oriented for mounting the fluid end on the plurality of fluid end connection studs may include lifting the fluid end via the one or more lift adaptors and a lifting mechanism, such that the pump frame face of the fluid end is substantially perpendicular with respect to the plurality of fluid end connection studs, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame may include positioning the fluid end relative to the pump frame while the pump frame is mounted on a mobile chassis, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame may include positioning the fluid end relative to the pump frame while the pump frame is separated from the mobile chassis.

The example method 1100, at 1106, may include determining whether the fluid end is positioned and/or oriented for mounting the fluid end on the plurality of fluid end connection studs. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be provided and positioned to generate one or more position sensor signals indicative of the position of the fluid end relative to the pump frame, such as, for example, proximity sensors and/or limit sensors.

If, at 1106, it is determined that the fluid end is not positioned and/or oriented for mounting the fluid end on the plurality of fluid end connection studs, at 1108, the example method 1100 may include continuing to position the fluid end using the one or more lift adaptors and the lifting mechanism and thereafter returning to 1106 to determine whether the fluid end is positioned and/or oriented for mounting the fluid end on a plurality of fluid end connection studs.

If, at 1106, it is determined that the fluid end is positioned and/or oriented for mounting the fluid end on a plurality of fluid end connection studs, at 1110, the example method 1100 may include connecting one or more actuators to the fluid end and a support frame on which the pump frame is mounted. In some embodiments, two actuators may be connected to the fluid end and the support frame at opposite ends of the fluid end and/or the support frame, although, in some embodiments, more than two actuators may be connected to the fluid end and the support frame. As described herein, in some embodiments, the support frame may include a ramp having a ramp surface extending in a direction substantially aligned with (and/or parallel to) the first direction in which the plurality of fluid end connection studs extend from the pump frame. In some embodiments, connecting the one or more actuators to the fluid end and the support frame may include connecting respective actuator connectors to the support frame, and connecting respective first portions of the one or more actuators to the actuator connectors. In some embodiments, the actuator connectors may be connected to the support frame and/or may be an integral part of the support frame, for example, as described herein. For example, the support frame and/or the actuator connectors may include one or more apertures configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of (and/or connected to) the actuators, and connecting the actuators to the actuator connectors may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuators into the one or apertures. In some embodiments, the actuator connectors may include one or more protrusions, the actuators may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuators to the actuator connectors may include mounting the actuators on the actuator connectors, such that the one or more protrusions of the actuator connectors are received in the apertures of the actuators.

In some embodiments, connecting the actuators to the support frame may include disconnecting a fluid conduit from a pivotable support fixture and pivoting the pivotable support fixture from a first orientation in which the pivotable support fixture supports the fluid conduit to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture extends the ramp of the support frame, for example, as described herein. Thereafter, in some embodiments, connecting the actuators to the support frame may include connecting the actuators to the pivotable support fixtures. For example, the pivotable support fixtures may each include one or more apertures configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of the actuators, and connecting the actuators to the pivotable support fixtures may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuators into the one or apertures of the pivotable support fixtures. In some embodiments, the pivotable support fixtures may each include one or more protrusions, the actuators may each include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuators to the pivotable support fixtures may include mounting the actuators on the pivotable support fixtures, such that the one or more protrusions of the pivotable support fixtures are received in the apertures of the actuators, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, portions of the one or more actuators may be connected to the fluid end. For example, the one or more actuators may each include respective jackscrews, and the screw portions of the respective jackscrews may be connected to the fluid end. For example, the screw portions may be threadedly connected to the fluid end via engagement between the screw portions of the jackscrews and jackscrew-receiving holes in the fluid end. Other types of actuators and attachments are contemplated, for example, as described herein.

The example method 1100, at 1112, may include separating the one or more lift adaptors from the fluid end, for example, via the lifting mechanism.

At 1114, the example method 1100 may include activating the one or more actuators.

The example method 1100, at 1116, may include moving, via activation of the one or more actuators, the fluid end along a ramp (e.g., up the ramp) toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs and the pump frame. In some embodiments, moving the fluid end along the ramp toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs may include extending the one or more actuators. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more actuators may include one or more jackscrews, and extending the one or more actuators may include rotating one or more respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews. In some embodiments, rotating the one or more respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews may include activating one or more respective motors connected to the one or more inputs to the one or more jackscrews. Other types of actuators and inputs are contemplated, for example, as described herein.

At 1118 (see FIG. 11B), the example method 1100 may include determining whether the fluid end is adjacent the pump frame. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be provided and positioned to generate one or more position sensor signals indicative of the position of the fluid end relative to the pump frame, such as, for example, proximity sensors and/or limit sensors.

If, at 1118, it is determined that the fluid end is not adjacent the pump frame, the example method 1100, at 1120, may include continuing to move, via activation of the one or more actuators the fluid end along the ramp toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs and the pump frame, and thereafter returning to 1120 to determine whether the fluid end is adjacent the pump frame.

If, at 1118, it is determined that the fluid end is adjacent the pump frame, the example method 1100, at 1122, may include securing the fluid end to the plurality of fluid end connection studs, for example, via nuts configured to threadedly engage each of the fluid end connection studs, for example, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the example method 1100 may include mounting the fluid end and the support frame to a support base configured to raise the pump frame and/or the power end relative to a surface on which the support base is positioned. In some embodiments, this may include securing the fluid end to the support frame via one or more fasteners, such as one or more bolts. This may enhance the rigidity of the pump once assembled and during operation.

At 1124, the example method 1100 may include separating the one or more actuators from the respective actuator connectors and/or the fluid end. In embodiments having pivoting support fixtures, the example method may include pivoting the one or more pivotable support fixtures into an orientation for supporting one or more fluid conduits, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, for example, for a pump having two (or more) fluid ends, the example method 1100, at 1126, may include repeating one or more of 1102 through 1124 to assemble one or more additional fluid ends to the pump. For example, the pump may include two banks of plungers and two (or more) respective fluid ends, and assembling the two (or more) fluid ends to the pump frame of the pump may include assembling a first fluid end to the pump frame and assembling a second fluid end to the pump frame, for example, as described herein.

Thereafter, the example method 1100 may end.

FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B are a block diagram of an example method 1200 for disassembling a fluid end from a pump, such as, for example, to a pump frame and/or a power end of a high-power pump, such as the high-power pumps described herein, as well as others. The example method 1200 is illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow graph, which represent a sequence of operations. In some embodiments of the method 1200, one or more of the blocks may be manually and/or automatically executed. In the context of software, where applicable, the blocks may represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular data types. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the method.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, an example method 1200 for disassembling a fluid end from a pump may include, at 1202 (see FIG. 12A), connecting one or more actuators to the fluid end and a support frame on which a pump frame of the pump is mounted. In some embodiments, two actuators may be connected to the fluid end and the support frame at opposite ends of the fluid end and/or the support frame, although, in some embodiments, more than two actuators may be connected to the fluid end and the support frame, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, the support frame may include a ramp having a ramp surface extending in a direction substantially aligned with (and/or parallel to) a first direction in which a plurality of fluid end connection studs extend from the pump frame. In some embodiments, connecting the one or more actuators to the fluid end and the support frame may include connecting one or more respective actuator connectors to the support frame, and connecting a first portion of the actuators to the respective actuator connectors. In some embodiments, the actuator connectors may be connected to the support frame and/or may be an integral part of the support frame. For example, the support frame and/or the actuator connectors may each include one or more apertures configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of (and/or connected to) each of the actuators, and connecting the actuators to the actuator connectors may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuators into the one or apertures. In some embodiments, the actuator connectors may include one or more protrusions, the actuators may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuators to the actuator connectors may include mounting the actuators on the actuator connectors, such that the one or more protrusions of the actuator connectors are received in the apertures of the actuators.

In some embodiments, connecting the actuators to the support frame may include disconnecting a fluid conduit from one or more pivotable support fixtures and pivoting the pivotable support fixtures from a first orientation in which the pivotable support fixture supports a fluid conduit to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture extends the ramp of the support frame. Thereafter, in some embodiments, connecting the one or more actuators to the support frame may include connecting the one or more actuators to respective pivotable support fixtures. For example, the pivotable support fixtures may each include one or more apertures configured and positioned to receive one or more complementary protrusions of the respective actuators, and connecting the actuators to the pivotable support fixtures may include inserting the one or more protrusions of the actuators into the one or apertures of the pivotable support fixtures. In some embodiments, the pivotable support fixtures may include one or more protrusions, the actuators may include one or more complimentary apertures, and connecting the actuators to the respective pivotable support fixtures may include mounting the actuators on the pivotable support fixtures, such that the one or more protrusions of the pivotable support fixtures are received in the apertures of the actuators, for example, as described herein.

In some embodiments, respective portions of the one or more actuators may be connected to the fluid end. For example, the one or more actuators may include respective jackscrews, and respective screw portions of the jackscrews may be connected to the fluid end. For example, the respective screw portions of the jackscrews may be threadedly connected to the fluid end via engagement between the respective screw portions of the jackscrews and jackscrew-receiving holes in the fluid end. Other types of actuators and attachments are contemplated, for example, as described herein.

At 1204, the example method 1200 may include disconnecting a plurality of fluid end connection studs of the pump from the fluid end. This may include, for example, removing a respective plurality of nuts from ends of the fluid end connection studs.

The example method 1200, at 1206, may include activating the one or more actuators.

At 1208, the example method 1200, may include moving, via activation of the one or more actuators, the fluid end along the ramp (e.g., down the ramp), thereby separating the fluid end from the plurality of fluid end connection studs. In some embodiments, moving the fluid end along the ramp may include retracting the one or more actuators. For example, the one or more actuators may each include a jackscrew, and retracting the one or more actuators may include rotating respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews. In some embodiments, rotating the respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews may include activating one or more motors connected to the respective inputs to the one or more jackscrews, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, a gear-reduction device may be connected each of the jackscrews, and the gear-reduction devices may be manually operated or driven, for example, by hand.

The example method 1200, at 1210, may include determining whether the fluid end has moved along the ramp a distance sufficient for the fluid end to become disengaged and/or separated from the plurality of fluid end connection studs. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be provided and positioned to generate one or more position sensor signals indicative of the position of the fluid end relative to the pump frame and/or the fluid end connection studs, such as, for example, proximity sensors and/or limit sensors.

If, at 1210, it is determined that the fluid end has not moved along the ramp a distance sufficient for the fluid end to become disengaged and/or separated from the plurality of fluid end connection studs, the example method 1200, at 1212 may include continuing to move, via activation of the one or more actuators, the fluid end along the ramp, and thereafter returning to 1210 to determine whether the fluid end has moved along the ramp a distance sufficient for the fluid end to become disengaged and/or separated from the plurality of fluid end connection studs.

If, at 1210, it is determined that the fluid end has moved along the ramp a distance sufficient for the fluid end to become disengaged and/or separated from the plurality of fluid end connection studs, at 1214, the example method 1200 may include engaging one or more lift adaptors with a lifting mechanism, and associating the one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end, thereby to engage the fluid end, such that the fluid end maintains an orientation relative to the pump frame and/or the power end. For example, the one or more lift adaptors may include two or more lift adaptors, and the lifting mechanism may include a fork of a fork truck, telehandler, or similar machine, and the forks may engage respective lift connectors of the lift adaptors, thereby to support the lift adaptors and the fluid end. In some embodiments, the fluid end may include a pump frame face configured to be adjacent the pump frame when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame. In at least some such embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end may include supporting the fluid end on the one or more lift adaptors, such that the pump frame face of the fluid end is substantially perpendicular relative to the first direction in which the fluid end connection studs extend.

In some embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end may include positioning the one or more lift adaptors relative to the fluid end while the pump frame is mounted on a mobile chassis. In some embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end may include positioning the one or more lift adaptors while the pump frame is separated from a mobile chassis, for example, as described herein. In some embodiments, associating the one or more lift adaptors with the fluid end may include positioning the one or more lift adaptors while the pump frame is mounted to a support base configured to raise the pump frame relative to a surface on which the support base is positioned, for example, as described herein.

At 1216, the example method 1200 may include determining whether the one or more lift adaptors are associated with the fluid end. In some embodiments, one or more sensors may be provided and positioned to generate one or more position sensor signals indicative of the one or more lift adaptors supporting the fluid end, such as, for example, contact sensors, proximity sensors, and/or limit sensors.

If, at 1216, it is determined that the one or more lift adaptors are not associated with the fluid end, the example method 1200, at 1218, may include continuing to position and/or orient the one or more lift adaptors to support the fluid end, and thereafter returning to 1216 to determine whether the one or more lift adaptors are associated with the fluid end.

If, at 1216, it is determined that the one or more lift adaptors are associated with the fluid end, the example method 1200, at 1220, may include separating the one or more actuators from the respective actuator connectors and/or the fluid end.

At 1222, the example method 1200 may include separating, via the one or more lift adaptors and the lift mechanism, the fluid end from the pump frame and/or the power end.

For a pump having two (or more) fluid ends, the example method 1200, at 1224, may include repeating 1202 through 1222 to disassemble one or more additional fluid ends from the pump. For example, the pump may include two banks of plungers and two (or more) respective fluid ends, and disassembling the two (or more) fluid ends from the pump frame of the pump may include disassembling a first fluid end from the pump frame and disassembling a second fluid end from the pump frame.

Thereafter, the example method 1200 may end.

It should be appreciated that at least some subject matter presented herein may be implemented as a computer process, a computer-controlled apparatus, a computing system, or an article of manufacture, such as a computer-readable storage medium. While the subject matter described herein is presented in the general context of program modules that execute on one or more computing devices, those skilled in the art will recognize that other implementations may be performed in combination with other types of program modules. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, and other types of structures that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.

Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that aspects of the subject matter described herein may be practiced on or in conjunction with other computer system configurations beyond those described herein, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, handheld computers, mobile telephone devices, tablet computing devices, special-purposed hardware devices, network appliances, and the like.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an example fluid end handling controller 1300, which, in some embodiments, may include or operate in a coordinated manner with other controllers, and may be configured to at least partially control a fluid end handling system 12, according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the fluid end handling controller 1300 may include one or more of the controllers. The fluid end handling controller 1300 may include one or more processor(s) 1302 configured to execute certain operational aspects associated with implementing certain systems and methods described herein. The processor(s) 1302 may communicate with a memory 1304. The processor(s) 1302 may be implemented and operated using appropriate hardware, software, firmware, or combinations thereof. Software or firmware implementations may include computer-executable or machine-executable instructions written in any suitable programming language to perform the various functions described. In some examples, instructions associated with a function block language may be stored in the memory 1304 and executed by the processor(s) 1302.

The memory 1304 may be used to store program instructions that are loadable and executable by the processor(s) 1302, as well as to store data generated during the execution of these programs. Depending on the configuration and type of the fluid end handling controller 1300, the memory 1304 may be volatile (such as random-access memory (RAM)) and/or non-volatile (such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.). In some examples, the memory devices may include additional removable storage 1306 and/or non-removable storage 1308 including, but not limited to, magnetic storage, optical disks, and/or tape storage. The disk drives and their associated computer-readable media may provide non-volatile storage of computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for the devices. In some implementations, the memory 1304 may include multiple different types of memory, such as static random-access memory (SRAM), dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), or ROM.

The memory 1304, the removable storage 1306, and the non-removable storage 1308 are all examples of computer-readable storage media. For example, computer-readable storage media may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Additional types of computer storage media that may be present may include, but are not limited to, programmable random access memory (PRAM), SRAM, DRAM, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, or other memory technology, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile discs (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium, which may be used to store the desired information and which may be accessed by the devices. Combinations of any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

The fluid end handling controller 1300 may also include one or more communication connection(s) 1310 that may facilitate a control device (not shown) to communicate with devices or equipment capable of communicating with the fluid end handling controller 1300. The fluid end handling controller 1300 may also include a computer system (not shown). Connections may also be established via various data communication channels or ports, such as USB or COM ports to receive cables connecting the fluid end handling controller 1300 to various other devices on a network. In some examples, the fluid end handling controller 1300 may include Ethernet drivers that enable the fluid end handling controller 1300 to communicate with other devices on the network. According to various examples, communication connections 1310 may be established via a wired and/or wireless connection on the network.

The fluid end handling controller 1300 may also include one or more input devices 1312, such as a keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, gesture input device, and/or touch input device. It may further include one or more output devices 1314, such as a display, printer, and/or speakers. In some examples, computer-readable communication media may include computer-readable instructions, program modules, or other data transmitted within a data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transmission. As used herein, however, computer-readable storage media may not include computer-readable communication media.

Turning to the contents of the memory 1304, the memory 1304 may include, but is not limited to, an operating system (OS) 1316 and one or more application programs or services for implementing the features and embodiments disclosed herein. Such applications or services may include remote terminal units 1318 for executing certain systems and methods for controlling operation of the fluid end handling system 12 (e.g., semi- or fully-autonomously controlling operation of the fluid end handling system 12), for example, upon receipt of one or more control signals generated by the fluid end handling controller 1300. In some embodiments, one or more remote terminal unit(s) 1318 may be located on one or more components of the fluid end handling system 12. The remote terminal unit(s) 1318 may reside in the memory 1304 or may be independent of the fluid end handling controller 1300. In some examples, the remote terminal unit(s) 1318 may be implemented by software that may be provided in configurable control block language and may be stored in non-volatile memory. When executed by the processor(s) 1302, the remote terminal unit(s) 1318 may implement the various functionalities and features associated with the fluid end handling controller 1300 described herein.

As desired, embodiments of the disclosure may include a fluid end handling controller 1300 with more or fewer components than are illustrated in FIG. 13. Additionally, certain components of the example fluid end handling controller 1300 shown in FIG. 13 may be combined in various embodiments of the disclosure. The fluid end handling controller 1300 of FIG. 13 is provided by way of example only.

References are made to block diagrams of systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products according to example embodiments. It will be understood that at least some of the blocks of the block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams, may be implemented at least partially by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, special purpose hardware-based computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functionality of at least some of the blocks of the block diagrams, or combinations of blocks in the block diagrams discussed.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement the function specified in the block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide task, acts, actions, or operations for implementing the functions specified in the block or blocks.

One or more components of the systems and one or more elements of the methods described herein may be implemented through an application program running on an operating system of a computer. They may also be practiced with other computer system configurations, including hand-held devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, mini-computers, mainframe computers, and the like.

Application programs that are components of the systems and methods described herein may include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that may implement certain abstract data types and perform certain tasks or actions. In a distributed computing environment, the application program (in whole or in part) may be located in local memory or in other storage. In addition, or alternatively, the application program (in whole or in part) may be located in remote memory or in storage to allow for circumstances where tasks can be performed by remote processing devices linked through a communications network.

According to some further aspects, in a first aspect, a fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a pump frame of a high-power pump, the fluid end handling system comprising: a lift adaptor including: a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end; and a fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the pump frame for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the pump frame; and a support frame including: a pump frame connector positioned to connect the support frame to the pump frame; a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection of the fluid end to the pump frame; and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

According to a second aspect, in combination with the first aspect, is a fluid end handling system further comprising an actuator configured to be connected to: (a) the support frame via the actuator connector and (b) the fluid end, the actuator being positioned to move the fluid end along the ramp during assembly of the fluid end to the pump frame.

According to a third aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the second aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the actuator is positioned to move the fluid end up the ramp toward the power end during assembly of the fluid end to the power end and lower the fluid end down the ramp during disassembly of the fluid end from the power end.

According to a fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the third aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a linear actuator or a rotary actuator.

According to a fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the fourth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a jackscrew, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric linear actuator.

According to a sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the fifth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator comprises a jackscrew and the fluid end handling system further comprises one or more of a gear-reduction device, an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, or a hydraulic motor connected to the jackscrew to drive the jackscrew.

According to a seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the sixth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the lift connector of the lift adaptor comprises one or more of: (a) a lifting sleeve configured to receive a fork of a fork truck or (b) a lifting eye configured to be connected to one or more of a crane or a hoist.

According to an eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the seventh aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the fluid end support of the lift adaptor comprises a fluid end support face extending obliquely relative to the lift connector.

According to a ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the eighth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the fluid end support face is positioned to face and abut an outer surface of the fluid end opposite an inner surface of the fluid end to which the pump frame is connected once the fluid end is connected to the pump frame.

According to a tenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the ninth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the support frame comprises an upright configured to space the fluid end from one of a platform on which the power end is mounted or a base on which the pump frame is supported.

According to an eleventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the tenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to a plane in which plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate relative to the fluid end.

According to a twelfth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the eleventh aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the upright of the support frame is configured to support the pump frame on a horizontal surface and the plane in which the plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate extends obliquely with respect to the horizontal surface.

According to a thirteenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the twelfth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the plane in which the plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate forms an angle relative to the upright of the support frame ranging from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees.

According to a fourteenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the thirteenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the support frame further comprises a pivotable support fixture having a support face and is configured to move from a first orientation in which the support face extends in a direction substantially parallel to the ramp face and provides an extension of the ramp face to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture is configured to support a conduit associated with the high-power pump.

According to a fifteenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the fourteenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the pivotable support fixture at least partially defines the actuator connector and is configured to receive an actuator support configured to be connected to the actuator.

According to a sixteenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the fifteenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator connector at least partially defines a connection hole, and the actuator support is received in the connection hole.

According to a seventeenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the sixteenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the ramp support comprises a pump frame connector configured to connect the pump frame to the ramp support when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame.

According to an eighteenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the seventeenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein: the high-power pump includes a plurality of fluid end connection studs positioned to connect the fluid end to a power end of the high-power pump; and the ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to the plurality of fluid end connection studs.

According to a nineteenth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the eighteenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein one or more of: (a) the lift adaptor comprises a first lift adaptor configured to engage a first end of the fluid end, and the fluid end handling system further comprises a second lift adaptor configured to engage a second end of the fluid end opposite the first end of the fluid end; (b) the pump frame connector comprises a first power end connector configured to be connected to a first end of a power end of the high-power pump, and the support frame further comprises a second power end connector configured to be connected to a second end of the power end opposite the first end of the power end; (c) the ramp comprises a first ramp at a first end of the support frame, and the support frame further comprises a second ramp at a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame; or (d) the actuator connector comprises a first actuator connector at a first end of the support frame, and the support frame further comprises a second actuator connector at a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame.

According to a twentieth aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the nineteenth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the fluid end support is configured to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the power end for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the power end

According to a twenty-first aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the twentieth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the pump frame connector comprises a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the power end.

According to a twenty-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the first aspect through the twenty-first aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the ramp face extends in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the fluid end is moved for assembly of the fluid end to the power end.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, in a twenty-third aspect a fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a power end of a high-power pump, the fluid end handling system comprises: a lift adaptor including: a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end; and a fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the power end for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the power end; a support frame including: a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the power end; a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection of the fluid end to the power end; and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator; and an actuator configured to be connected to: (a) the support frame via the actuator connector and (b) the fluid end, the actuator being positioned to move the fluid end up the ramp toward the power end during assembly of the fluid end to the power end and lower the fluid end down the ramp during disassembly of the fluid end from the power end.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect, in combination with the twenty-third aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the lift connector of the lift adaptor comprises one or more of: (a) a lifting sleeve configured to receive a fork of a fork truck or (b) a lifting eye configured to be connected to one or more of a crane or a lift.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the twenty-fourth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the fluid end support of the lift adaptor comprises a fluid end support face extending obliquely relative to the lift connector.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the twenty-fifth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the fluid end support face is positioned to face and abut an outer surface of the fluid end opposite an inner surface of the fluid end to which the power end is connected once the fluid end is connected to the power end.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the twenty-sixth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the power end connector of the support frame comprises an upright configured to space the fluid end from one of a platform on which the power end is mounted or a base on which the power end is supported.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the twenty-seventh aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to a plane in which plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate relative to the fluid end.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the twenty-eighth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the upright of the support frame is configured to support the power end on a horizontal surface and the plane in which the plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate extends obliquely with respect to the horizontal surface.

According to a thirtieth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the twenty-ninth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the plane in which the plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate forms an angle relative to the upright of the support frame ranging from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees.

According to a thirty-first aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirtieth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the support frame further comprises a pivotable support fixture having a support face and is configured to move from a first orientation in which the support face extends in a direction substantially parallel to the ramp face and provides an extension of the ramp face to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture is configured to support a conduit associated with the high-power pump.

According to a thirty-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-first aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the pivotable support fixture at least partially defines the actuator connector and is configured to receive an actuator support configured to be connected to the actuator.

According to a thirty-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-second aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator connector at least partially defines a connection hole, and the actuator support is received in the connection hole.

According to a thirty-fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-third aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a linear actuator or a rotary actuator.

According to a thirty-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-fourth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a jackscrew, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric linear actuator.

According to a thirty-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-fifth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the actuator comprises a jackscrew and the fluid end handling system further comprises one or more of a gear-reduction device, an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, or a hydraulic motor connected to the jackscrew to drive the jackscrew.

According to a thirty-seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-sixth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein the ramp support comprises a fluid end connector configured to connect the fluid end to the ramp support when the fluid end is connected to the power end.

According to a thirty-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-seventh aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein: the power end includes a plurality of fluid end connection studs positioned to connect the fluid end to the power end; and the ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to the plurality of fluid end connection studs.

According to a thirty-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the twenty-third aspect through the thirty-eighth aspect, is a fluid end handling system wherein one or more of: (a) the lift adaptor comprises a first lift adaptor configured to engage a first end of the fluid end, and the fluid end handling system further comprises a second lift adaptor configured to engage a second end of the fluid end opposite the first end of the fluid end; (b) the power end connector comprises a first power end connector configured to be connected to a first end of the power end, and the support frame further comprises a second power end connector configured to be connected to a second end of the power end opposite the first end of the power end; (c) the ramp comprises a first ramp at a first end of the support frame, and the support frame further comprises a second ramp at a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame; (d) the actuator connector comprises a first actuator connector at a first end of the support frame, and the support frame further comprises a second actuator connector at a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame; or (e) the actuator comprises a first actuator configured to be connected to a first end of the support frame and a first end of the fluid end, and the fluid end handling system further comprises a second actuator configured to be connected to a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame and as second end of the fluid end opposite the first end of the fluid end.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, in a fortieth aspect, is a support frame for a high-power pump having a pump frame, the support frame comprising: a first end frame member and a second end frame member; and a frame member connector connecting the first end frame member to the second end frame member and extending along a longitudinal axis of the support frame; one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member including: a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to a lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump; a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction to facilitate assembly of a fluid end of the high-power pump to a power end of the high-power pump; and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

According to a forty-first aspect, in combination with the fortieth aspect, is a support frame wherein the power end connector comprises: a connection surface positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame; and one or more of a protrusion or a groove on the connection surface positioned to locate the lower portion of the pump frame relative to the connection surface.

According to a forty-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-first aspect, is a support frame wherein: the power end connector comprises a connection surface positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame and extending in a first direction; and the ramp face extends in a second direction oblique with respect to the first direction.

According to a forty-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the twenty-fourth aspect, is a support frame wherein the ramp comprises a fluid end connection feature configured to be connected to the fluid end of the high-power pump.

According to a forty-fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-second aspect, is a support frame wherein the actuator connector comprises a pivotable support fixture configured to pivot between a first orientation to facilitate connection of an actuator to the pivotable support fixture and a second orientation during operation of the high-power pump.

According to a forty-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-fourth aspect, is a support frame wherein in the first orientation the pivotable support fixture is configured to provide an extension of the ramp face.

According to a forty-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-fifth aspect, is a support frame wherein the ramp face and the pivotable support fixture in the first orientation are configured facilitate assembly of a fluid end to the pump frame.

According to a forty-seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-sixth aspect, is a support frame wherein in the second orientation, the pivotable support fixture is configured to provide support for a conduit associated with the high-power pump.

According to a forty-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-seventh aspect, is a support frame wherein: the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member comprises an end frame face facing in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame; and the end frame face at least partially defines a fixture recess positioned receive the pivotable support fixture in the first orientation and the second orientation.

According to a forty-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-eighth aspect, is a support frame wherein the fixture recess is at least partially defined by a support wall configured to support the pivotable support fixture in the second orientation.

According to a fiftieth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the forty-ninth aspect, is a support frame wherein the pivotable support fixture comprises an attachment feature configured to connect an actuator to the pivotable support fixture.

According to a fifty-first aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fiftieth aspect, is a support frame wherein the pivotable support fixture comprises a fixture body having: a first end connected to the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member; and a second end opposite the first end, the fixture body extending between the first end and the second end and defining therebetween a longitudinal axis of the fixture body.

According to a fifty-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-first aspect, is a support frame further comprising an intermediate frame member connected to the frame member connector between the first end frame member and the second end frame member, the intermediate frame member comprising an intermediate connection surface positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame.

According to a fifty-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-second aspect, is a support frame wherein one or more of the first end frame member, the second end frame member, or the intermediate frame member at least partially defines a connection aperture receiving the frame member connector and connecting the frame member connector to the one or more of the first end frame member, the second end frame member, or the intermediate frame member.

According to a fifty-fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-third aspect, is a support frame wherein the intermediate frame member has bilateral symmetry when viewed in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

According to a fifty-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-fourth aspect, is a support frame wherein the first end frame member and the second end frame member each comprise: a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to a lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump; a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction to facilitate connection of a fluid end to a power end of the high-power pump; and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

According to a fifty-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-fifth aspect, is a support frame wherein: the power end connector is a first power end connector; the ramp is a first ramp having a first ramp face extending in a first ramp direction to facilitate connection of a first fluid end to a power end of the high-power pump; the actuator connector is a first actuator connector associated with the first ramp and positioned to connect to a first actuator; and the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member further comprises: a second power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump; a second ramp having a second ramp face extending in a second direction to facilitate connection of a second fluid end to the power end of the high-power pump; and a second actuator connector associated with the second ramp and positioned to connect to a second actuator.

According to a fifty-seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-sixth aspect, is a support frame wherein the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member has bilateral symmetry when viewed in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

According to a fifty-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-seventh aspect, is a support frame wherein the frame member connector is a first frame member connector, and the support frame further comprises a second frame member connector connecting the first end frame member to the second end frame member and extending along the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

According to a fifty-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the fortieth aspect through the fifty-eighth aspect, is a support frame wherein the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member comprises a frame base positioned to support the support frame and the high-power pump on a surface.

In a further aspect of the disclosure, in a sixtieth aspect, is a method for assembling a fluid end to a pump frame of a high-power pump, the method comprising: associating a lift adaptor with the fluid end, thereby to orient the fluid end relative to the pump frame of the high-power pump; positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame and oriented for mounting the fluid end on a plurality of fluid end connection studs connected to the pump frame and extending in a first direction; connecting an actuator to the fluid end and a support frame on which the pump frame is mounted, the support frame including a ramp having a ramp surface extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction; activating the actuator; moving, via activation of the actuator, the fluid end along the ramp toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs; and securing the fluid end to the plurality of fluid end connection studs.

According to a sixty-first aspect, in combination with the sixtieth aspect, is a method further comprising disconnecting the actuator from the fluid end and the support frame.

According to a sixty-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixth-first aspect, is a method further comprising, after connecting the actuator to the fluid end and the support frame, separating the lift adaptor from the fluid end.

According to a sixty-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-second aspect, is a method wherein: the fluid end comprises a pump frame face configured to be adjacent the pump frame when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame; and associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end comprises supporting the fluid end on the lift adaptor such that the pump frame face of the fluid end is substantially perpendicular relative to the first direction.

According to a sixty-fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-third aspect, is a method wherein: the fluid end comprises a pump frame face configured to be adjacent the pump frame when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame; and positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame and oriented for mounting the fluid end on the plurality of fluid end connection studs comprises lifting the fluid end via the lift adaptor and a lifting mechanism, such that pump frame face of the fluid end is substantially aligned with the plurality of fluid end connection studs.

According to a sixty-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-fourth aspect, is a method wherein connecting the actuator to the fluid end and the support frame comprises connecting an actuator connector to the support frame, and connecting a first portion of the actuator to the actuator connector.

According to a sixty-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-fifth aspect, is a method further comprising connecting a second portion of the actuator to the fluid end.

According to a sixty-seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-sixth aspect, is a method wherein moving the fluid end along the ramp toward the plurality of fluid end connection studs comprises extending the actuator.

According to a sixty-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-seventh aspect, is a method wherein the actuator comprises a jackscrew, and extending the actuator comprises rotating an input to the jackscrew.

According to a sixty-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-eighth aspect, is a method wherein rotating the input to the jackscrew comprises one or more of activating a motor connected to the input to the jackscrew or manually rotating a gear reduction device connected to the input to the jackscrew.

According to a seventieth aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the sixty-ninth aspect, is a method wherein positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame comprises positioning the fluid end relative to the pump frame while the pump frame is mounted on a mobile chassis.

According to a seventy-first aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the seventieth aspect, is a method wherein positioning the fluid end adjacent the pump frame comprises positioning the fluid end relative to the pump frame while the power end is separated from a mobile chassis.

According to a seventy-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the seventy-first aspect, is a method further comprising mounting the fluid end and the support frame to a support base configured to raise the power end relative to a surface on which the support base is positioned.

According to a seventy-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the sixtieth aspect through the seventy-second aspect, is a method wherein: the high-power pump comprises two banks of plungers; and assembling the fluid end to the pump frame of the high-power pump comprises: assembling a first fluid end to the pump frame; and assembling a second fluid end to the pump frame.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, according to a seventy-fourth aspect, is a method for disassembling a fluid end from a pump frame of a high-power pump, the method comprising: connecting an actuator to a fluid end and a support frame on which a pump frame is mounted, the support frame including a ramp having a ramp surface; disconnecting a plurality of fluid end connection studs of the high-power pump from the fluid end, the plurality of fluid end connection studs extending in a first direction and the ramp surface of the ramp extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction; activating the actuator; moving, via activation of the actuator, the fluid end along the ramp, thereby to separate the fluid end from the plurality of fluid end connection studs; engaging a lift adaptor with a lifting mechanism; associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end, thereby to engage the fluid end such that the fluid end maintains an orientation relative to the power end; and separating, via the lift adaptor and the lift mechanism, the fluid end from the pump frame.

According to a seventy-fifth aspect, in combination with the seventy-fourth aspect, is a method wherein: the fluid end comprises a pump frame face configured to be adjacent the pump frame when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame; and associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end comprises supporting the fluid end on the lift adaptor such that the pump frame face of the fluid end is substantially perpendicular relative to the first direction

According to a seventy-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the seventy-fifth aspect, is a method wherein: the fluid end comprises a pump frame face configured to be adjacent the power end when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame; and associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end thereby to engage the fluid end such that the fluid end maintains an orientation relative to the pump frame comprises lifting the lift adaptor into position to engage and support the fluid end at the orientation.

According to a seventy-seventh aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the seventy-sixth aspect, is a method wherein connecting the actuator to the fluid end and the support frame comprises connecting an actuator connector to the support frame, and connecting a first portion of the actuator to the actuator connector.

According to a seventy-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the seventy-seventh aspect, is a method further comprising connecting a second portion of the actuator to the fluid end.

According to a seventy-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the seventy-eighth aspect, is a method wherein moving the fluid end along the ramp, thereby to separate the fluid end from the plurality of fluid end connection studs comprises retracting the actuator.

According to an eightieth aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the seventy-ninth aspect, is a method wherein the actuator comprises a jackscrew, and retracting the actuator comprises rotating an input to the jackscrew.

According to an eighty-first aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the eightieth aspect, is a method wherein rotating the input to the jackscrew comprises one or more of activating a motor connected to the input to the jackscrew or manually rotating a gear reduction device connected to the input to the jackscrew.

According to an eighty-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the eighty-first aspect, is a method wherein associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end comprises positioning the lift adaptor relative to the fluid end while the pump frame is mounted on a mobile chassis.

According to an eighty-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the eighty-second aspect, is a method wherein associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end comprises positioning the lift adaptor while the pump frame is separated from a mobile chassis.

According to an eighty-fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the eighty-third aspect, is a method wherein associating the lift adaptor with the fluid end comprises positioning the lift adaptor while the pump frame is mounted to a support base configured to raise the pump frame relative to a surface on which the support base is positioned.

According to an eighty-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the seventy-fourth aspect through the eighty-fourth aspect, is a method wherein: the high-power pump comprises two banks of plungers; disassembling the fluid end from the pump frame of the high-power pump comprises: disassembling a first fluid end from the pump frame; and disassembling a second fluid end from the pump frame.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, in an eighty-sixth aspect, is a support frame for a high-power pump having a pump frame, the support frame comprising: a first end frame member and a second end frame member; and a frame member connector connecting the first end frame member to the second end frame member and extending along a longitudinal axis of the support frame; and one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member including a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to a lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump.

According to an eighty-seventh aspect, in combination with the eighty-sixth aspect, is a support frame wherein the power end connector comprises: a connection surface positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame; and one or more of a protrusion or a groove on the connection surface positioned to locate the lower portion of the pump frame relative to the connection surface.

According to an eighty-eighth aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the eighty-seventh aspect, is a support frame wherein: the power end connector comprises a connection surface positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame and extending in a first direction.

According to an eighty-ninth aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the eighty-eighth aspect, is a support frame further comprising an intermediate frame member connected to the frame member connector between the first end frame member and the second end frame member, the intermediate frame member comprising an intermediate connection surface positioned to abut the lower portion of the pump frame.

According to a ninetieth aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the eighty-ninth aspect, is a support frame wherein one or more of the first end frame member, the second end frame member, or the intermediate frame member at least partially defines a connection aperture receiving the frame member connector and connecting the frame member connector to the one or more of the first end frame member, the second end frame member, or the intermediate frame member.

According to a ninety-first aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the ninetieth aspect, is a support frame wherein the intermediate frame member has bilateral symmetry when viewed in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

According to a ninety-second aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the ninety-first aspect, is a support frame wherein the first end frame member and the second end frame member each comprise: a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to a lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump; a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction to facilitate connection of a fluid end to a power end of the high-power pump; and an actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

According to a ninety-third aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the ninety-second aspect, is a support frame wherein: the power end connector is a first power end connector; the ramp is a first ramp having a first ramp face extending in a first ramp direction to facilitate connection of a first fluid end to the power end of the high-power pump; the actuator connector is a first actuator connector associated with the first ramp and positioned to connect to a first actuator; and the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member further comprises: a second power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the lower portion of the pump frame of the high-power pump; a second ramp having a second ramp face extending in a second direction to facilitate connection of a second fluid end to the power end of the high-power pump; and a second actuator connector associated with the second ramp and positioned to connect to a second actuator.

According to a ninety-fourth aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the ninety-third aspect, is a support frame wherein the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member has bilateral symmetry when viewed in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

According to a ninety-fifth aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the ninety-fourth aspect, is a support frame wherein the frame member connector is a first frame member connector, and the support frame further comprises a second frame member connector connecting the first end frame member to the second end frame member and extending along the longitudinal axis of the support frame.

According to a ninety-sixth aspect, in combination with one or more of the eighty-sixth aspect through the ninety-fifth aspect, is a support frame wherein the one or more of the first end frame member or the second end frame member comprises a frame base positioned to support the support frame and the high-power pump on a surface.

Having now described some illustrative embodiments of the disclosure, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is merely illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example only. Numerous modifications and other embodiments are within the scope of one of ordinary skill in the art and are contemplated as falling within the scope of the disclosure. In particular, although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the parameters and configurations described herein are exemplary and that actual parameters and/or configurations will depend on the specific application in which the systems, methods, and/or aspects or techniques of the disclosure are used. Those skilled in the art should also recognize or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, equivalents to the specific embodiments of the disclosure. It is, therefore, to be understood that the embodiments described herein are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of any appended claims and equivalents thereto, the disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.

Claims

1. A fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a pump frame of a high-power pump, the fluid end handling system comprising: a lift adaptor including: a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end; anda fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the pump frame for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the pump frame; anda support frame including: a pump frame connector positioned to connect the support frame to the pump frame;a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection of the fluid end to the pump frame; andan actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator.

2. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, further comprising an actuator configured to be connected to: (a) the support frame via the actuator connector and (b) the fluid end, the actuator being positioned to move the fluid end along the ramp during assembly of the fluid end to the pump frame.

3. The fluid end handling system of claim 2, wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the actuator is positioned to move the fluid end up the ramp toward the power end during assembly of the fluid end to the power end and lower the fluid end down the ramp during disassembly of the fluid end from the power end.

4. The fluid end handling system of claim 2, wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a linear actuator or a rotary actuator.

5. The fluid end handling system of claim 4, wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a jackscrew, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric linear actuator.

6. The fluid end handling system of claim 5, wherein the actuator comprises a jackscrew and the fluid end handling system further comprises one or more of a gear-reduction device, an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, or a hydraulic motor connected to the jackscrew to drive the jackscrew.

7. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the lift connector of the lift adaptor comprises one or more of: (a) a lifting sleeve configured to receive a fork of a fork truck or (b) a lifting eye configured to be connected to one or more of a crane or a hoist.

8. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the fluid end support of the lift adaptor comprises a fluid end support face extending obliquely relative to the lift connector.

9. The fluid end handling system of claim 8, wherein the fluid end support face is positioned to face and abut an outer surface of the fluid end opposite an inner surface of the fluid end to which the pump frame is connected once the fluid end is connected to the pump frame.

10. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the support frame comprises an upright configured to space the fluid end from one of a platform on which the power end is mounted or a base on which the pump frame is supported.

11. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to a plane in which plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate relative to the fluid end.

12. The fluid end handling system of claim 11, wherein an upright of the support frame is configured to support the pump frame on a horizontal surface and the plane in which the plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate extends obliquely with respect to the horizontal surface.

13. The fluid end handling system of claim 12, wherein the plane in which the plungers of the high-power pump reciprocate forms an angle relative to the upright of the support frame ranging from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees.

14. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the support frame further comprises a pivotable support fixture having a support face and is configured to move from a first orientation in which the support face extends in a direction substantially parallel to the ramp face and provides an extension of the ramp face to a second orientation in which the pivotable support fixture is configured to support a conduit associated with the high-power pump.

15. The fluid end handling system of claim 14, wherein the pivotable support fixture at least partially defines the actuator connector and is configured to receive an actuator support configured to be connected to the actuator.

16. The fluid end handling system of claim 15, wherein the actuator connector at least partially defines a connection hole, and the actuator support is received in the connection hole.

17. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the ramp support comprises a pump frame connector configured to connect the pump frame to the ramp support when the fluid end is connected to the pump frame.

18. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein: the high-power pump includes a plurality of fluid end connection studs positioned to connect the fluid end to a power end of the high-power pump; andthe ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to the plurality of fluid end connection studs.

19. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein one or more of: (a) the lift adaptor comprises a first lift adaptor configured to engage a first end of the fluid end, and the fluid end handling system further comprises a second lift adaptor configured to engage a second end of the fluid end opposite the first end of the fluid end;(b) the pump frame connector comprises a first power end connector configured to be connected to a first end of a power end of the high-power pump, and the support frame further comprises a second power end connector configured to be connected to a second end of the power end opposite the first end of the power end;(c) the ramp comprises a first ramp at a first end of the support frame, and the support frame further comprises a second ramp at a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame; or(d) the actuator connector comprises a first actuator connector at a first end of the support frame, and the support frame further comprises a second actuator connector at a second end of the support frame opposite the first end of the support frame.

20. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the fluid end support is configured to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the power end for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the power end.

21. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the pump frame connector comprises a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the power end.

22. The fluid end handling system of claim 1, wherein the pump frame includes a power end, and the ramp face extends in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the fluid end is moved for assembly of the fluid end to the power end.

23. A fluid end handling system for facilitating assembly and disassembly of a fluid end relative to a power end of a high-power pump, the fluid end handling system comprising: a lift adaptor including: a lift connector configured to be connected to a lifting mechanism for lifting the lift adaptor and the fluid end; anda fluid end support positioned to support the fluid end and orient the fluid end relative to the power end for assembly and removal of the fluid end relative to the power end;a support frame including: a power end connector positioned to connect the support frame to the power end;a ramp having a ramp face extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction in which the fluid end is moved for connection of the fluid end to the power end; andan actuator connector associated with the ramp and positioned to connect to an actuator; andan actuator configured to be connected to: (a) the support frame via the actuator connector and (b) the fluid end, the actuator being positioned to move the fluid end up the ramp toward the power end during assembly of the fluid end to the power end and lower the fluid end down the ramp during disassembly of the fluid end from the power end.

24. The fluid end handling system of claim 23, wherein the power end connector of the support frame comprises an upright configured to space the fluid end from one of a platform on which the power end is mounted or a base on which the power end is supported.

25. The fluid end handling system of claim 23, wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a linear actuator or a rotary actuator.

26. The fluid end handling system of claim 25, wherein the actuator comprises one or more of a jackscrew, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric linear actuator.

27. The fluid end handling system of claim 26, wherein the actuator comprises a jackscrew and the fluid end handling system further comprises one or more of a gear-reduction device, an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, or a hydraulic motor connected to the jackscrew to drive the jackscrew.

28. The fluid end handling system of claim 23, wherein the ramp support comprises a fluid end connector configured to connect the fluid end to the ramp support when the fluid end is connected to the power end.

29. The fluid end handling system of claim 23, wherein: the power end includes a plurality of fluid end connection studs positioned to connect the fluid end to the power end; andthe ramp face is configured to extend in a direction substantially parallel to the plurality of fluid end connection studs.