Inventors:
William C. Saxman - Irving TX
Larry J. Parker - Fort Worth TX
Assignee:
Dresser Industries, Inc. - Dallas TX
International Classification:
E21B 1024
Abstract:
A compressible pressure compensating member is disposed within a sealed lubricant volume enclosing a bearing and seal system of an earth boring apparatus. Lubricant is maintained within the volume by metal face seals so that both the bearing and the seal structure are lubricated thereby. As the lubricant expands, due to thermal expansion under use, the increased pressure is accommodated by compression of the compressible member so that no lubricant is expelled through the seals. When the lubricant cools and contracts, the compensator expands to maintain the lubricant volume at the initially filled level.