Abstract: A pump piston assembly for a single acting reciprocating pump used in slush pumps handling liquids and semi-liquids carrying abrasives and other solid matter for the circulation of drilling fluid or slush in oil well drilling operations. A cast iron (or forged steel) piston element, having a hub extension for the mounting of an annular piston seal, is provided with a through opening for mounting of the piston assembly on the end of a piston rod. The large diameter metal base of the piston element is provided with a multi-channeled, or grooved, peripheral surface and an annular beveled edge at the piston rear face for the optimal flow of fluid into the piston peripheral surface during back strokes of the piston assembly for optimal fluid lubrication of the piston element within the pump cylinder lining. An annular fluid reservoir groove is also provided in the metal base for optimized retention of fluid for the multi-channeled peripheral surface with some embodiments.

Abstract: A diaphragm closure support system connectable to the inside of a pipe adjacent a diaphragm closure on the end of the pipe to prevent rupture of the diaphragm closure by hydrostatic pressure when the pipe is submerged in water. A diaphragm closure support ring having slots formed therein is welded to the inside of the lower end of the pipe. A diaphragm support plate, slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the support ring, is positioned to engage the resilient diaphragm closing the end of the pipe. A plurality of T-bolts are pivotally secured to the support plate and positioned to extend into the slots in a support ring. A T-bolt retraction ring is moveably secured to the support plate and positioned to urge the T-bolts into a locked position in the slots in the support ring.