Energy diffusing wear ring and methods thereof

摘要

An energy diffusion sealing ring [872] for use with a hydrocyclone or pump is provided. The energy diffusion sealing ring [872] comprises a sacrificial suspension matrix [872A] comprised of a polymer, elastomer, or combination thereof, and a number of packed inserts [872B] suspended in the matrix [872]. The matrix [872] serves as delivery means for the inserts [872B] into one or more recessed portions [833, 841]. The inserts [872B] comprise a hard material (e.g., ceramic or carbide) and form wear bodies which slow and dissipate kinetic energy of escaping slurry by way of creating paths of resistance. As the suspension matrix [872A] erodes over time, a plurality of interstices [872C] between the inserts [872B] are formed. Escaping slurry [852] slows as it traverses three-dimensional serpentine paths defined by said interstices [872C], thereby reducing its potential to wear surrounding components. Methods for manufacturing an energy diffusion sealing ring [872] and for dissipating the energy of slurry [850] are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A hydrocyclone comprising:
a first section having a first casing and a first liner which is disposed radially inwardly of the first casing; a second section having a second casing and a second liner which is disposed radially inwardly of the second casing; a receiving portion comprising an annular groove provided in said first and second casings; a radially inner portion of the receiving portion being defined by radially outwardly facing surfaces of the first and second liners; a radially outer portion of the receiving portion being defined by radially inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second casings; an upper portion of the receiving portion being defined by a surface of the first casing; and a lower portion of the receiving portion being defined by a surface of the second casing; thereby defining a cavity for an annular energy diffusion ring to reside, and, an annular energy diffusion ring situated in said receiving portion, the annular energy diffusion ring comprising a resilient suspension matrix of at least one of a polymer or elastomer which is configured to be sacrificed by erosion during use, and a plurality of closely-packed hard inserts suspended within said resilient suspension matrix; wherein in use, the annular energy diffusion ring is configured to diffuse slurry passing between said first liner and said second liner before it reaches a portion of the first or second casing.