Abstract: A submersible well pump assembly includes a pump driven by a motor. The pump has a number of stages, each stage including a diffuser having an annular diffuser inlet with an annular outer wall. Diffuser passages lead downstream and inward from the diffuser inlet. An impeller has a circumferential outer edge adjacent the outer wall of the diffuser inlet. Notches are formed in the circumferential outer edge, defining a serrated configuration.

Abstract: A submersible well pump assembly has a motor that rotates a drive shaft within the pump. The pump has a number of pump stages, each stage having a diffuser and an impeller. A bushing is fixed for non-rotation within the diffuser. A thrust runner sleeve mounted to the drive shaft has an outer diameter surface in sliding rotating engagement with an inner diameter surface of the bushing. At least one seal ring is mounted to the sleeve in sealing engagement with the drive shaft to block the entry of well fluid particulates between the sleeve and the drive shaft.

Abstract: A submersible well pump assembly includes a pump driven by a motor. The pump has a number of stages, each stage including a diffuser having an annular diffuser inlet with an annular outer wall. Diffuser passages lead downstream and inward from the diffuser inlet. An impeller has a circumferential outer edge adjacent the outer wall of the diffuser inlet. Notches are formed in the circumferential outer edge, defining a serrated configuration.

Abstract: A submersible well pump assembly has a motor that rotates a drive shaft within the pump. The pump has a number of pump stages, each stage having a diffuser and an impeller. A bushing is fixed for non-rotation within the diffuser. A thrust runner sleeve mounted to the drive shaft has an outer diameter surface in sliding rotating engagement with an inner diameter surface of the bushing. At least one seal ring is mounted to the sleeve in sealing engagement with the drive shaft to block the entry of well fluid particulates between the sleeve and the drive shaft.

Abstract: An electrical submersible well pump assembly has upper and lower motors that are filled with oil. During installation in a well, the upper motor lowers into engagement with the lower motor. The drive shafts of the motors have splined ends that engage each other within a central cavity. A vent port leads from the central cavity to the exterior for venting any trapped air located within the central cavity.

Abstract: The invention provides a downhole rotating machine having a compliant radial bearing system. The compliant radial bearings in accordance with the present invention utilize a variable dimension fluid chamber between adjacent components in the bearing system. These variable fluid chambers may be defined by elastomeric members, such as o-rings. The dimension of the variable fluid chamber as well as the fluid therein serves to dampen vibration and mechanical shock to bearing components. This vibration and shock dampening facilitates the use of ceramic components within the bearing system.