Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention provide pumps, plungers and plunger assemblies, as well as methods of using them. In accordance with some embodiments, a plunger may comprise a ceramic material and/or may have a facial profile that may allow for more efficient pumping operations. In particular embodiments, for example, a plunger may have a facial profile that allows for deformation of at least a portion of the plunger when the face of the plunger is in contact with a pressurized fluid. Other embodiments provide plunger assemblies, which may comprise a flexible coupling attachment. Yet other embodiments provide pumps comprising such plungers and/or plunger assemblies.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention, therefore, provide pumps, and methods for their production. One exemplary embodiment of the invention comprises a ceramic plunger pump assembly. The pump assembly can include a pump body, which defines a pump chamber with an inlet port and an outlet port. The pump body can further define a plunger port disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port. In certain embodiments, the pump assembly can further include a ceramic plunger housing, which defines a cylindrical bore having an interior diameter. The plunger housing can be disposed within the plunger port. The pump assembly can also include a ceramic plunger. In particular embodiments, the ceramic plunger is slidably disposed within the cylindrical bore, such that the ceramic plunger may be reciprocated back and forth within the bore. Thus, the fluid can be moved from the inlet port of the pump chamber to the outlet port of the pump chamber through the reciprocal action of the plunger.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention, therefore, provide pumps, and methods for their production. One exemplary embodiment of the invention comprises a ceramic plunger pump assembly. The pump assembly can include a pump body, which defines a pump chamber with an inlet port and an outlet port. The pump body can further define a plunger port disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port. In certain embodiments, the pump assembly can further include a ceramic plunger housing, which defines a cylindrical bore having an interior diameter. The plunger housing can be disposed within the plunger port. The pump assembly can also include a ceramic plunger. In particular embodiments, the ceramic plunger is slidably disposed within the cylindrical bore, such that the ceramic plunger may be reciprocated back and forth within the bore. Thus, the fluid can be moved from the inlet port of the pump chamber to the outlet port of the pump chamber through the reciprocal action of the plunger.