WO2016161479A1

WO2016161479A1 - Pumping system

Info

Publication number: WO2016161479A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/050256
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lyle GILMORE
Original assignee: Legra Engineering Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-04-10
Filing date: 2016-04-08
Publication date: 2016-10-13

Abstract

A pumping system is provided that may be used in areas where conventional pumps are unable to operate, and/or where it may be unsafe for workers to be present. The pumping system includes: a pump, for pumping a liquid or slurry from one area to another; a remote drive portion, coupled to the pump, for remotely driving the pump; and a remote control portion, for remotely controlling a movement of the pump.

Description

PUMPING SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to pumping. In particular, although not exclusively, the present invention relates to the pumping of water or slurry at a mine site or construction area.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Water often pools up in mine and construction sites. This is particularly the case after rainy periods, but water can also pool from other sources. In any event, it is generally desirable to remove the water, and this is typically achieved using pumping equipment.

[0003] A problem with removing water from mine and construction sites using pumping equipment of the prior art is that some areas may be considered too dangerous for workers to operate pumps. For example, in open cut mining, workers are generally not allowed within 30m of the highwall edge when in the pit, which is generally also the deepest part of the pit. As a result, water often settles in this area.

[0004] Certain pump systems exist that reduce the need for workers to work near the highwall by providing a pump that extends over the pit wall, and down into the pool of water. A problem with such pumps, however, is that they are generally very large, and are thus not particularly suited to pumping small pools of water that may be spread out in an area.

[0005] Furthermore, in underground mining, pockets of water also form, which are cumbersome and labour intensive to remove. In such case, bulky systems, such as those described above, are not suitable.

[0006] As a result, there is a need for an improved pumping system.

[0007] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is directed to pumping system, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice. [0009] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a pumping system including:

a pump, for pumping a liquid or slurry from one area to another;

a remote drive portion, coupled to the pump, for remotely driving the pump; and a remote control portion, for remotely controlling a movement of the pump.

[0010] The system may be used in areas where conventional pumps are unable to operate, and where it may be unsafe for workers to be present. Furthermore, the pump may be able to operate in a wide range of conditions, such in low oxygen environments (including under water), and where there is risk of explosion from sparks.

[0011] Preferably, the pumping system is configured to operate in a mine site or

construction area.

[0012] The drive portion and the control portion may comprise a first transportable unit, and the pump may comprise a second transportable unit in the form of a pumping portion.

[0013] The control portion is generally configured to be positioned in an area that is accessible and safe to workers.

[0014] The control portion includes a user interface, to enable a user to control movement of the pumping portion. The user interface may enable the user to control operation of the pump. The user interface may comprise one or more of a joystick, a lever, a switch and a button.

[0015] The pump may be fluid driven. The fluid may be hydraulic fluid. In such case, the drive portion may comprise a hydraulic pump for driving the pump of the pumping portion.

[0016] The pumping portion may comprise tracks, for moving the pumping portion. The tracks may be remotely powered by the drive portion.

[0017] The tracks may comprise a first and second track, wherein a hydraulic motor is provided in relation to each of the first and second tracks. The control portion may be configured to individually control each of the tracks independently. The tracks may be formed of rubber or steel.

[0018] Alternatively, the pumping portion may comprise wheels, for moving the pumping portion.

[0019] The pumping portion may comprise rams, operable to raise and lower the pump. The rams may be remotely powered by the drive portion.

[0020] The pumping portion may include a support, housed in a channel, configured to enable the pump to be raised and lowered while preventing the pump from rotating.

[0021] Pumping portion may include a lift point, for securing the pumping portion to a crane.

[0022] The pump may comprise a centrifugal pump.

[0023] The pump may comprise a drive shaft, in an oil bath, supported by thrust bearings. A back-to-back or single sided mechanical seal, which is supported by a seal housing, may separate oil from the oil bath and the liquid or slurry that is pumped by the pump.

[0024] The pump may be coupled to a screen, to prevent debris from entering the pump.

[0025] The system may include an automatic controller, configured to enable the system to run at least partly unattended. The automatic controller may be configured to alter operation of the pumping portion when predetermined criteria are met. The criteria may include low water level, a volume of fluid, or any other suitable criteria.

[0026] The pumping portion may include an auger, adjacent to the pump, for generating a slurry to be pumped by the pump.

[0027] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0028] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure la illustrates a side view of a pumping system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure lb illustrates a top view of the pumping system of Figure 1 ; [0032] Figure lc illustrates an end view of the pumping system of Figure 1 ;

[0033] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the pump of the system of Figure 1;

[0034] Figure 3a illustrates a side view of a pumping system, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 3b illustrates a top view of the pumping system of Figure 3a.

[0036] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of a pumping system, according to yet an alternative embodiment of the present invention, including an auger feed;

[0037] Figure 5 illustrates a schematic of a pumping system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure. 6 illustrates a top view of a pumping system, according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure. 7 illustrates a side view of the pumping system of Figure. 6; and

[0040] Figure. 8 illustrates an end view of the pumping system of Figure. 6.

[0041] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0042] Figure la illustrates a side view of a pumping system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure lb illustrates a top view of the pumping system 100 and Figure lc illustrates an end view of the pumping system 100.

[0043] The pumping system 100 is mounted on tracks and is remote controlled, which enables it to be used in areas where conventional pumps are unable, and where it may be unsafe for workers to be present. Furthermore, by utilising a hydraulically powered pump (i.e. having a hydraulically driven motor as opposed to a combustion engine or electric motor), the pump is able to operate in a wide range of conditions, such in low oxygen environments (including under water), and where there is risk of explosion from sparks. [0044] The pumping system 100 includes a hydraulically driven pump 105 (e.g. a water pump) that is centrally mounted above and between a track set 110, which is for manoeuvring the pump 105 to an area. The track set 110 includes a first track 110a on one side of the system 100 and a second track 110b on the other side of the system 100. A hydraulic motor 115 is provided on each of the first and second tracks 110a, 110b, to drive one track 110a, 110b individually of the other track 110a, 110b. As such, directional control of the system 100 is provided, which enables the system to be positioned as required.

[0045] The tracks 110a, 110b may, for example, be rubber or steel and are similar to tracks found on small mobile plant equipment. The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that turning of the system 100 may be provided by operating one of the tracks 110a, 110b without another of the tracks 110a, 110b, or by running the first and second tracks 110a, 110b in opposite directions to each other.

[0046] The pump 105 is coupled to a support 120, which is in turn coupled to hydraulic rams 125. The hydraulic rams 125 are operable to raise and lower the pump 105. In particular, the pump 105 is generally lifted clear of ground for travel, and lowered when the system 100 is at a desired pumping location.

[0047] The support 120 is housed in an anti-twist channel 130, which enables the housing to be raised and lowered (by moving vertically in the channel 130), but prevents the support 120 from twisting from inertia of the pump 105.

[0048] The support 120 further includes lift point 135, which allows the system 100 to be lifted by cranes, for example on and off transport trailers, as is known in the art in relation to other types of machinery.

[0049] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the pump 105 of the system 100. The pump 105 is of centrifugal construction, and is driven by a hydraulic motor 205. In particular, the hydraulic motor 205 is couple to a drive shaft 210, which in turn is coupled to a pump impeller 215. As the pump impeller 215 rotates, water (and/or slurry) is drawn upwards through a suction screen 220 and pumped out through a pump outlet 225.

[0050] The suction screen 220 prevents large objects from being sucked into the impeller 215, which may damage the impeller 215, or prevent the impeller 215 from operating correctly, and thus prevent the pump 105 from operating. While the suction screen 220 is illustrated as being substantially flat, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that any suitably shaped suction screen 220 may be used. [0051] The drive shaft 210 is supported by thrust bearings 230, and is in an oil bath 235 for lubrication. A back-to-back mechanical seal 240, which is supported by a seal housing 245, separates oil from the oil bath 220 from water in the pump impeller 215. The oil bath 235 utilises case oil (case leakage) from the drive motor 205 for lubricant. In particular, a port 240a is provided at the seal 240 to allow the oil to tee into a return line (not illustrated) of the motor 205.

[0052] According to an alternative embodiment (not illustrated), a single sided mechanical seal is used in place of the back-to-back mechanical seal 240

[0053] The oil bath 235 is generally pressurized to prevent water from the pump impeller 215 from opening up the seal 240, which is achieve using a pressure sustaining valve placed in association with the return port 240a.

[0054] The pump 105 includes impeller clearance adjustment bolts 250, which extend from a driveshaft housing 255, which houses the driveshaft 210, down to a pump case/volute 260 in which the impeller 215 is housed. The clearance adjustment bolts 250 enable adjustment of the impeller 215 relative to the driveshaft 210 by raising or lowering the pump case/volute 260.

[0055] The system 100 may further include a plurality of sensors (not illustrated) to provide data from the system 100. Example of sensors include depth/fluid level sensors, pressure sensors, image sensors and the like, and may be configured to provide input to an automatic controller of the system. As an illustrative example, a depth sensor may be used to determine when there is no water remaining, upon which the pump is turned off.

[0056] The system 100 is configured to be coupled to a control and power station, hereon referred to as a power pack (not illustrated), to remotely power and control the system 100. The power pack is generally a stand-alone unit that is positioned in an area that is accessible and safe to workers, and the separation of the system 100 and its power pack enables workers to safely control the system 100 in a potentially unsafe environment.

[0057] The power pack may include a combustion engine or electric motor for pressurizing hydraulic fluid, a hydraulic tank, and controls to power and control the system 100. Hydraulic service lines (not illustrated) extend from the power pack to the system 100 to enable control of the system 100. The engine is typically a diesel engine, but can be petrol or electric. Similarly, and in particular in underground applications, an engine from an existing vehicle or machine may be used to power the hydraulic motor. [0058] The controls may include a 'forward/reverse' control in relation to each track 110a, 110b, a pump 'lift/lower' control, to raise and lower the pump 105, and a pump operation control, to control operation of the pump 105, including at least On' and Off . The controls may comprise push pull type controls, levers, buttons, a joystick, or any other suitable control.

Furthermore, the controls may be mounted at or by the power pack, coupled to the power pack, for example by a flexible lead.

[0059] The system 100 generally tows the hydraulic service lines as it moves around. The power pack may include a storage reel, for housing the lines, which may unroll as the system 100 moves from the power pack. Similarly, the storage reel may be configured to roll up the lines as the system 100 returns to the power pack.

[0060] The power pack may further incorporate an automatic controller, or 'watch- dog' system, that will allow the system 100 to run unattended, and shut down or otherwise alter operation once predetermined criteria are met. The criteria may include low water level, a volume of fluid, or any other suitable criteria.

[0061] Figure 3a illustrates a side view of a pumping system 300, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3b illustrates a top view of the pumping system 300.

[0062] The pumping system 300 is similar to the pumping system 100, but instead of being mounted on tracks is mounted on wheels.

[0063] In particular, the pumping system 300 includes the hydraulically driven pump 105, described above, which is centrally mounted above and between a wheel set 310 comprising four wheels 310a. A hydraulic motor 315, which may be similar to the hydraulic motor 115, is provided on each of the wheels 310a, and are able to individually drive the wheels to allow directional control of the system 300 similar to that provided by the tracks 110 of Figure 1.

[0064] According to certain embodiments (not illustrated), the wheels 210a are coupled a hydraulic motor or reduction gearbox, which enables the wheels to steer based upon controls of the power pack. By enabling steering, finer movement of the system 200 can be provided when compared with fixed wheels.

[0065] According to some embodiments, only two hydraulic motors 315 are provided, for controlling wheels on the respective sides of the system 200. In such case, the system 200 may be two wheel drive, i.e. one wheel driven by each hydraulic motor 315, or four wheel drive, i.e. where pairs of wheels are driven by the hydraulic motor 315.

[0066] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of a pumping system 400, according to yet an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The pumping system 400 is similar to the pumping system 100, but further includes an auger 415 in front of the pump 105, allowing it to become a slurry pump / mini dredge. The auger 405 mixes solids (e.g. dirt) and water at the intake of the pump 105, allowing the mixed slurry to be pumped.

[0067] According to certain embodiments, the auger 405 is releasably attached to the system 400. As a result, the system 400 may operate in a similar manner to the system 100 of Figure 1, when the auger 405 is removed, or as a slurry pump / mini dredge when the auger 405 is attached.

[0068] FIG 5 illustrates a schematic of a pumping system 500, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] The pumping system 500 includes a water/slurry/f uid pump component 500a, and a control component 500b. The pump component 500a may be similar or identical to the pump system 100 of Figure 1 of the pump system 300 of Figure 3, and the control component 500b may be similar or identical to the power pack described above.

[0070] The pump component 500a includes a hydraulic driven pump 505, such as the pump 105 of Figure 1 to Figure 4, and hydraulic drive tracks 510, such as the tracks 110 of Figure 1. The hydraulic driven pump 505 and the hydraulic drive tracks 510 are independently controllable by the control component 500b to enable the pump component 500a to move independently of pumping, and operation of the pump.

[0071] According to an alternative embodiment, the hydraulic drive tracks 510 are replaced by other means for moving the pump component 500a, such as the wheels 310 of the system 300 of figure 3.

[0072] The pump component 500a may include other components, such as hydraulic lifts, for raising and lowering the pumps, augers, sensors, for sensing flow rates, pressures and the like, or any other component relating to the operation of the pump component 500a.

[0073] The control component 500b includes a hydraulic pump 515, for pressurising hydraulic fluid, which is coupled to the hydraulic driven pump 505 and the hydraulic drive tracks 510 of the pump component 500a. The hydraulic pump 515 is coupled to the hydraulic drive pump 505 and the hydraulic drive tracks 510 by a valve body 520, which controls the flow of hydraulic fluid to the respective elements of the pump component 500a. As such, the control component 500b is able to selectively operate the pump 505 and the tracks 510 using the valve body.

[0074] The valve body 520 may pass service oil via a multi-port rotating glands to control the separate flow of oil through a reel system connecting the control component 500b to the pump component 500a. For example, a two-port gland may be on one side of a reel, to manage fluid for the pump 505, and may be higher flow and pressure than other ports. A six -port gland may be on an opposite side of the reel, and manage fluid for the tracks 510 (two pairs of ports) and other functions such as a hydraulic lift for the pump 505 (one pair of ports).

[0075] A manual controller 525 is coupled to the valve body 520, to enable an operator to manually control the pump component 500a. The manual controller may include a joystick, levers, touchscreen, or any other suitable user interface, to enable the operator to provide input to the system 500. Upon input of by the operator to the controls, the manual controller will open and close ports of the valve body to enable control of the pump component 500a.

[0076] Furthermore, an automatic controller 530 is coupled to the valve body 520, to enable automatic control of the pump component 500a. The automatic controller 530 may be configured to operate the pump component 500a for a predetermined amount of time, until a set of criteria are met, or autonomously until instructed otherwise. As such, an operator may initially set up the system 500 using the manual controller 525, and subsequently set up the system 500 to operate automatically using the automatic controller.

[0077] Finally, the control component 500b includes a hydraulic tank 535, coupled to the valve body 520 and hydraulic pump 515, for receiving and storing hydraulic fluid (oil).

[0078] The system 500 enables water or slurry to be pumped from an areas where conventional pumps are unable to be used, and where it may be unsafe for workers to be present. Furthermore, by utilising the hydraulically powered pump, the system 500 is able to operate in a wide range of conditions, such in low oxygen environments (including under water), and where there is risk of explosion from sparks.

[0079] FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a pumping system 600, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the pumping system 600 and FIG. 8 illustrates an end view of the pumping system 600. [0080] The pumping system 600 is similar to the pumping system 100 of Figure 1, but includes and engine/power pack on the tracks rather than separate thereto. The pumping system 600 is remote controlled, which enables it to be used in areas where it may be unsafe for workers to be present.

[0081] The pumping system 600 includes a hydraulic driven pump 605 that is mounted between a track set 610, near a front of the system 600. The tracks 610 are for manoeuvring the system 600, and, similar to the system 100, include first and second tracks 610a, 610b driven by hydraulic motor(s).

[0082] An engine 615, such as a diesel engine, is located at a rear of the system and is coupled to a hydraulic pump and is configured to drive the hydraulic driven pump 605 and the tracks 610 by hydraulic lines. In particular, the diesel engine 615 drives the hydraulic pump (pumping hydraulic fluid), which in turn drives the hydraulic drive pump 605 (pumping water or slurry) and the tracks 610.

[0083] By locating the pump 605 and the engine 615 in separate areas of the system 600, the engine is able to remotely drive the pump, enabling the pump to be submerged while the engine is not. Furthermore, a single engine is able to be used to efficiently operate several aspects of the system, including the pump and the tracks.

[0084] The engine 615, the pump 605 and the tracks 610 are all coupled to a framework 620, which includes lift point 625, which allows the system 600 to be lifted by cranes, for example on and off transport trailers, as is known in the art in relation to other types of machinery.

[0085] The system 600 may include controls in association with the engine 615 or pump 605, in addition to remote controls, like the system 100. This enables the system 600 to be remote controlled, but also enables an operator to drive the system when in an areas where it is safe to do so.

[0086] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0087] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0088] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A pumping system including:

a pump, for pumping a liquid or slurry from one area to another;

2. The pumping system of claim 1, configured to operate in a mine site or construction area.

3. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the remote drive portion and the remote control portion comprise a first transportable unit, and the pump comprises a second transportable unit in the form of a pumping portion.

4. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the control portion is generally configured to be positioned in an area that is accessible and safe to workers.

5. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the control portion includes a user interface, to enable a user to control movement of the pump.

6. The pumping system of claim 5, wherein the user interface enables the user to control operation of the pump.

7. The pumping system of claim 5, wherein the user interface may comprise one or more of a joystick, a lever, a switch and a button.

8. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the pump is fluid driven.

9. The pumping system of claim 8, wherein the fluid is hydraulic fluid.

10. The pumping system of claim 9, wherein the drive portion comprises a hydraulic pump for driving the pump.

11. The pumping system of claim 1, comprising tracks, for moving the pump.

12. The pumping system of claim 11, wherein the tracks are remotely powered by the drive portion.

13. The pumping system of claim 11, wherein the tracks may comprise first and second tracks, and wherein a hydraulic motor is provided in relation to each of the first and second tracks.

14. The pumping system of claim 13, wherein the control portion is configured to individually control each of the tracks independently.

15. The pumping system of claim 11, wherein the tracks are formed of rubber or steel.

16. The pumping system of claim 1, comprising wheels, for moving the pump.

17. The pumping system of claim 1, comprising rams, operable to raise and lower the pump.

18. The pumping system of claim 17, wherein the rams are remotely powered by the drive portion.

19. The pumping system of claim 1, including a support, housed in a channel, configured to enable the pump to be raised and lowered while preventing the pump from rotating.

20. The pumping system of claim 1, including a lift point, for securing a pumping portion comprising the pump to a crane.

21. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the pump comprises a centrifugal pump.

22. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the pump may comprise a drive shaft, in an oil bath, supported by thrust bearings.

23. The pumping system of claim 22, wherein a back-to-back or single sided mechanical seal, which is supported by a seal housing, separates oil from the oil bath and the liquid or slurry that is pumped by the pump.

24. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the pump is coupled to a screen, to prevent debris from entering the pump.

25. The pumping system of claim 1, including an automatic controller, configured to enable the system to run at least partly unattended.

26. The pumping system of claim 25, wherein the automatic controller is configured to alter operation of the pumping portion when predetermined criteria are met.

27. The pumping system of claim 1, including an auger, adjacent to the pump, for generating a slurry to be pumped by the pump.