The relevance of centrifugal pumps lies in their widespread application in different branches of the chemical industry and water utilities as a result of such feature. However, the efficiency and durability of these pumps depend on the mechanical seals that are important essentials that help to avoid leakage and complications in operation. In this blog, we will discuss types of mechanical seals, where can be used, and how proper selection will affect a centrifugal pump. At the end of the chapter, we will learn about the proper care and handling of the equipment, ways to detect problems and how to choose the most suitable seals.
1.1 About mechanical seals in centrifugal pump
Centrifugal pumps are utilization crosswise over different ventures to siphon fluids however its productivity can be influenced if the mechanical seal is not appropriately used. The mechanical seal simply acts as a barrier that protects the environment from influences by the pumped fluids. These seals keep pressure within a system, shield bearings from damaging contaminants and minimize the threat of corrosion. Whether the application is in a chemical plant, water treatment facility or the pharmaceutical industries, selection of a mechanical seal is a vital factor to the reliability and efficiency of the pumps.
At Excel Rubber Industries Inc., our main focus is manufacturing and supplying quality mechanical seals for centrifugal pump uses. They are suitable for improving on the operation of your pump and as well extending the life cycle of your pumps.
1.2 Mechanical Seals common among the various types found in centrifugal pumps are as follows:
Mechanical seals can be of different types depending on their application and conditions of working environments. Let’s break down the most common types:
- Single Mechanical Seals: The simplest type consisting of a fixed ring and one moving ring face in relative rotation with a stationary ring face. It is recommended for use in application where the pressure is relatively low.
- Double Mechanical Seals: These comprise of two seals, usually of tapered design which are face-to-face or back-to-back to each other. Applicable in pressure applications or situations where external leakage is not permitted.
- Cartridge Mechanical Seals: These seals are available pre-assembled in a cartridge form which eases its installation and subsequent servicing. Typical for a number of industries where seal replacements occur rather often.
- Tandem Seals: These seals are used where higher reliability and longer service life are demanded, and, in particular, in hazardous zones.
Choosing the correct seal that can be applied in your pump depends on various factors that relate to the pump or the operation environment that the pump is operating under. Mechanical seal products which are provided by Excel Rubber Industries Inc. are producible to fulfill specific requirements.
1.3 How Mechanical Seals Function on Centrifugal Pumps
Mechanical seals in centrifugal pumps function by utilizing two faces: Systems of two types: one is fixed and the second is revolving. These faces are forced together with sealing force to reduce leaking of fluids. There is always a very thin layer of fluid, referred to as the fluid film, between the seal faces to minimize the possibility of two surfaces being in direct contact and hence metallic to metallic wear. The seal faces themselves depends on some easily erodable materials such as carbon, ceramic, or even tungsten carbide thus guaranteeing them longevity.
The main purpose of a mechanical seal is to avoid leakage and guarantee the trouble-free functional capacity of the pump. Seal Face Technology therefore allows you to decide, which material and design is best suited for your application.
1.4 How Different Mechanical Seal Types Are Used In Centrifugal Pumps
It is important to note that mechanical seals are used in all industries and each industry has its types of seals depending on fluid type, pressure and temperature levels. Here’s how different seal types are applied:
Chemical Processing: Such double seals serve as containment in handling dangerous chemical products and to avoid Leiaure of the substances.
- Water Treatment: For dealing with water, single seals are preferred due to these a boring yet practical reasons such as matters of cost and efficiency.
- Oil and Gas: This industry requires high-performance seals, especially tandem or double acting seals that can cope with pressure and the harshest chemicals.
- Food and Beverage: SS seals are in most cases, applied where hygiene must be met in conjunction with reliable and optimal pump performance.
1.5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Installing Mechanical Seal on Different Industries
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of various mechanical seals will help you make an informed choice:
- Single Mechanical Seals: Inexpensive yet may need replacing often when exposed to unfavourable environmental climate.
- Double Mechanical Seals: Suits circumstances that require high pressure, or are potentially dangerous, but cost more and are more difficult to fit.
- Cartridge Seals: Generally these are even simpler to install because they are pre-assembled but may be slightly more expensive.
- Tandem Seals: Most suitable for high reliability applications although are larger and more expensive than other types.
Of course, knowing these advantages and disadvantages, one can choose the necessary seal type for the given application.
1.6 Maintaining mechanical seals; 6 guiding points which are useful when operating centrifugal pumps
It is imperative to monitor mechanical seals because they are only useful for a period and they may get damaged when not well maintained leading to costly time wastage. Here are some best practices:
Periodically assess for signs that include leakage as well as any spontaneous, undue vibration.
Make sure the flange faces remain well protected with lubricant and any particle matter.
Keep an eye of the pump pressure to check on the performance of seals appropriately.
It should not be left to chance that seals will not fail at the strangest of times and therefore should be replaced as often as possible.
Excel Rubber Industries Inc. presents a series of extremely durable, high-performance seals that can be both easily maintained and resistant to failure.
1.7 Exploring Seal Material Contribution to the Performance of Centrifugal Pumps
This paper has been written to establish that seal material selection forms a vital component in determining the performance of mechanical seals. Mud, carbon, ceramic, and tungsten carbide are employable because of their features such as wearing capability. This means that deciding what material to use, depends on the type of fluid, and maybe the temperature, chemical content as well as pressure. For example, ceramic is best suitable for high temperature operations while carbon is appropriate for abrasive fluids.
At Excel Rubber Industries Inc., all our seals are customized from high-quality material that will give the best performance as well as great protection for your centrifugal pumps.
1.8 Mechanical seal failure is one of the most common causes of centrifugal pumps;
Here are 8 ways to troubleshoot mechanical seal failures in 2019.
Often the reasons for mechanical seal failures include improper installation, high temperature, and contamination of sealing faces. Any leakage, vibration and higher temperature level of the system are symptoms that are indicative of failure. An accurate diagnosis of the primary reason for the failure is called for, so as to know whether to replace the seal or repair other causes of the failure such as misalignment or lack of adequate lubrication.
1.9 selection of Mechanical seals for better performance of the pump
It is therefore evident that enhancement of mechanical seals can greatly enhance the pumps’ performance. New materials and better geometry of faces have to be mentioned as contributors to decrease of wear, increase of reliability and service life of seals. Poor efficiency, or constant seal failure can also be solved if the pump is equipped with a new generation seal that corresponds to the modern standard.
Excel Rubber Industries Inc. stocks several innovative mechanical pump seals, which are used to enhance the performance of pumps and discourage unscheduled downtime.
1.10 Efficiency Comparison of Mechanical Seal Kinds
To get the most value from the $ spent it is a well-known fallacy to think that going for the cheapest mechanical seal will offer the best return on investment; instead, it’s crucial to properly estimate which mechanical seal can meet the necessary performance levels. While choosing cheap seal variety means less expenses, however the seals may spoil frequently or might even harm the pump. While conventional seals like the single seal costs less during installation yet they may require replacement frequently, whereas double or cartridge seals are more expensive initially but will give better results in the long run to include more extended durability and less replacement costs.
1.11 contains case studies on mechanical seals in centrifugal pumps.
Some examples of how specific mechanical seal couples and designs perform in practice are given in the following sections. For instance, two mechanical seals are used widely in the chemical industry due to the nature of the fluids the equipment processes, while the food industry uses the single mechanical seal due to cost effectiveness and more. From industry specific case study, one can understand how to choose and use mechanical seal for maximum functionality.
1.12 guidelines for using the mechanical seals in circular pumps
This knowledge of mechanical seals requires the right installation procedures for it to work effectively. Here are some tips for a successful installation:
Advise the seal faces are correctly aligned and lubricated.
Before installing the seal look at the pump shaft for signs of wear or misalignment.
If you do not want to spoil the seals during installation, then use the right equipment.
At Excel Rubber Industries Inc., when you purchase our mechanical seals, we give you comprehensive manuals and assistance to assist you with the correct installation of the mechanical seal.
1.13 Environmental And Regulation Concerns Mechanical Seal
Mechanical seal also has its part to play in environmental and regulatory compliance, that is, preventing emission or leakage. Specifically in the manufacturing domain of oil and gas; environmental concerns compel the use of seals that can endure tortuously unforgiving conditions without seeping. Selection of an appropriate mechanical seal does not only lead to efficiency of the pump but also consideration of the environment.
Knowledge of several types of mechanical seals and certain practices of their utilization will aid you to make adequate decisions in relation to your centrifugal pumps and thus improve efficiency and durability. For detailed information about high quality mechanical seals that meets your requirements contact Excel Rubber Industries Inc.. We aim at being a reliable supplier of high quality, long service life, and economic sealing products to various industries.
