Pump stabilizer and method

Abstract

A vertically-disposed pump shaft is supported by an upward force against the pump shaft during periods of non use of the pump thereby off-loading bearings normally supportive of the shaft to prevent damage thereto when the pump is moved. Additionally, a lateral support is provided at a lower end of the pump to prevent lateral movement while permitting axial movement, thereby reducing stresses against the pump housing and other components.

1 - 12 . (canceled)  
   
   
       13 . A pump comprising: 
 a vertically oriented pressure pot having a cap secured thereto at an upper end of said pressure pot;    a pump housing suspended within said pressure pot from said cap;    a lateral support fixed to a lower end of said pressure pot, said lateral support interacting with an extension of said pump housing to prevent said pump housing from swinging laterally within said pressure pot.    
   
   
       14 . The pump of  claim 13 , wherein said lateral support allows axial movement between said pump housing and said pressure pot.  
   
   
       15 . The pump of  claim 13 , wherein said lateral support extends through said pressure pot and forms a second extension extending down from said pressure port, said second extension interacting with a third extension extending up from a solid surface beneath said pressure port, said second extension and said third extension cooperating to prevent lateral movement between said pressure port and said surface.  
   
   
       16 . The pump of  claim 15 , wherein said second extension and said third extension of said lateral support allow relative axial movement between said pressure pot and said surface.  
   
   
       17 . The pump of  claim 15 , wherein said lateral support includes a thermal block comprising a thermally insulative material to reduce thermal conduction between said surface and interior of said suction pot.  
   
   
       18 - 20 . (canceled)