Sealing apparatus
US4667737A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 9, 1986 |
| Grant date | May 26, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 9, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16J15/004
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A sealing apparatus having particular utility in a submersible electric motor utilized in subterranean wells comprises a tubular housing assembly securable in upwardly projecting, sealed relationship to the motor housing. An extension of the motor shaft projects upwardly through the tubular housing to drive a pump or other subterranean well tool. The upper end of the extension shaft is exposed to well fluids and a first shaft seal is mounted in a seal mounting chamber defined in the upper end of the tubular housing assemblage. Below the seal mounting chamber, the tubular housing assemblage defines a diaphragm chamber. A conduit is provided between the lower portions of the seal mounting chamber and the lower portions of the diaphragm chamber. A flexible, annular diaphragm divides the diaphragm chamber and is exposed on its exterior to well fluids, and on its interior to a light density motor protective fluid, thus equalizing any pressure differential between the motor protective fluid and the external well fluids. The diaphragm chamber is connected at its upper end to a downwardly extending axial passage surrounding the motor shaft and communicating with the interior of the motor h…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.