Fracturing pump arrangement using a plunger with an internal fluid passage

An apparatus, comprising:

• a fluid end body having a borehole formed therein, the fluid end body configured to be attached to a power end using a plurality of stay rods, the power end comprising a rotatable crankshaft;
• a plunger positioned within the borehole and having opposed first and second ends;
• in which the plunger is configured to be operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the plunger reciprocates within the borehole in response to rotation of the crankshaft;
• an inlet component attached to the first end of the plunger;
• a first fluid passageway extending through the inlet component and the plunger;
• a flexible inlet conduit having opposed first and second ends and a second fluid passageway formed therein;
• in which the first end of the flexible inlet conduit is configured to be attached to a stationary inlet manifold and the second end of the flexible inlet conduit is attached to the inlet component such that the second fluid passageway is in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway;
• an inlet valve positioned within the first fluid passageway;
• and
• at least one packing seal installed within the borehole and engaging an outer surface of the plunger;
• in which the plunger is movable within the borehole relative to the at least one packing seal.