20150376995 | MODULAR TOP LOADING DOWNHOLE PUMP WITH SEALABLE EXIT VALVE and VALVE ROD FORMING APERTURE - A method and apparatus for improving the production efficiency of a well and preventing gas lock. The apparatus is a downhole pump and comprises a barrel, a reciprocating plunger and a body having a plurality of inlet valves. The apparatus does not require outlet valves. The body and inlet valves are positioned above the barrel and plunger, thus eliminating gas lock. Fluids enter the body through the valves and, during upstrokes of the plunger, are forced up the tubing string to the surface equipment. Modularity of the components permits pump components to be changed as the productivity of the well fluctuates and also allows production of more fluids with a smaller casing. The invention prevents gas lock by permitting gasses to escape between a sliding valve and a valve rod connected to the plunger. Additionally, an exit valve sealably engages the valve rod, which forms an aperture. During operation of the pump, the gasses escape through the aperture in the valve rod and rise up the tubing string. | 12-31-2015 |