Turbopump unit for deep wells and system
 An improved turbopump unit and system for pumping hot geothermal liquids from deep wells to the earth's surface. The unit is of simplified single-shaft construction with reduced net reaction thrust on the shaft. Bearing wear is minimized by using hydrostatic bearings and by supplying lubricating liquid thereto which is taken from an intermediate stage of a centrifugal pump at the surface which supplies motive liquid to the turbine. An arrangement is provided that is operated by pressure of the lubricating liquid for maintaining all thrust-engageable surfaces carried by the shaft out of engagement at start-up and shut-down. Means operated by liquid pressure are provided for sealing the unit to the well casing and also for preventing undue tensile or compressive stresses in the supply conduit for the turbine motive liquid while maintaining an effective seal between the unit and the well casing. 
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inventional inventional
James H.
Anderson