Anti-backspin device for electrical submersible pumps

Abstract

A shaft in an electrical submersible pumping system is prevented from rotation in a backspin direction, which is in a direction opposite from its typical forward rotation during normal operation. Backspin rotation is prevented with a device that includes teeth coupled to the shaft and a stationary pawl disposed in a rotational path of the teeth. Each tooth has a forward surface that contacts the pawl during forward rotation of the shaft, the forward surfaces are each configured with a profile to slide along and past the pawl without impeding shaft rotation. Rotation in the backspin direction engages the pawl with rearward surfaces of the teeth, which are configured to impede shaft rotation when engaged. Fluid being handled by the pumping system flows through a passage in the device and absorbs friction generated thermal energy from the device.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.