Patents Examined by C.J. Hausar
  • Patent number: 3981628
    Abstract: Submersible electric motor driven inducer equipped centrifugal pump units, especially suitable for the pumping of cryogenic fluids or fluids at their boiling point, and capable of maintaining full flow under low submergence conditions are provided by disconnecting the inducers from co-rotation with the main impeller shaft while still retaining the main shaft for support and are powered by a source in the unit such as a slip coupling, a hydraulic turbine driven by pumpage from the pump impeller, or a separate electric motor. These power sources drive the inducer at speeds slower than the pump impeller to develop the desired suction head for the impeller without drawing excessive power or producing undesirable thrusts and reduce pump-out time for the last few feet of cargo. A hydraulic or magnetic clutch coupling with the main electric motor drive may be used in combination with the turbine power source for the inducer to start the pumping action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1974
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1976
    Inventor: James C. Carter