MECHANICAL Seals

Mechanical seals are critical components in various industrial applications, ensuring the effective and safe operation of machinery. However, like any component, they can fail due to a variety of reasons. Understanding these causes is key to preventing downtime and maintaining system integrity. Here are the common causes of mechanical seal failures:

1. Improper Installation: Incorrect installation can lead to uneven loading, misalignment, and eventual seal failure. It’s essential that seals are installed following the precise guidelines set out in Installation, Operation, and Maintenance (IOM) Manuals.
2. Incorrect Material Selection: The choice of material for seal faces, wetted metal components, and O-rings or secondary seals is crucial. Incorrect materials can be vulnerable to the media they are exposed to, leading to corrosion or wear.
3. Operational Issues: Fluctuations in pressure, temperature, or speed beyond the seal’s design specifications can compromise its integrity. Operating conditions must align with the seal’s capabilities.
4. Chemical Attack: Exposure to aggressive chemicals can degrade seal materials. The compatibility of seal materials with the process fluid is vital for seal longevity.
5. Abrasive Particles: The presence of abrasive particles in the process fluid can erode incorrectly selected seal faces or other wetted components, leading to premature failure.
6. Thermal Extremes: Exposure to temperatures outside the operational range of the seal material can cause thermal deformation or cracking.
7. Vibration and Misalignment: Excessive vibration and misalignment of the pump shaft can impose undue stress on mechanical seals, hastening wear and failure.
8. Dry Running: Operation without adequate lubrication across the seal faces can cause excessive heat and wear, leading to seal failure.

At Flexaseal, we design our seals to address these challenges, offering robust solutions tailored to diverse operational environments. Our expertise ensures that each seal not only fits your specific application but also combats the common causes of failure, enhancing reliability and efficiency.

Yes, you can repair mechanical seals, often at a lower cost than buying new ones. At Flexaseal, we efficiently restore seals to like-new condition, offering substantial savings over your equipment’s lifetime.

Our repair services aren’t limited to our own products. We can repair any brand of seal, thanks to our robust reverse engineering capabilities and extensive catalog of technologies and designs. We thoroughly evaluate each seal, replacing or refurbishing essential parts to ensure optimal performance.

Choosing to repair with Flexaseal means your seals will function as effectively as new ones, but without the expense of a full replacement. This approach not only saves money but also extends the life of your rotating equipment, ensuring its ongoing effectiveness and reliability.

Find out more

Yes, split seals can be as reliable as cartridge seals when used in the appropriate applications. Flexaseal’s split seal technology is designed for ease of installation and maintenance, particularly in situations where disassembling equipment to change a seal is impractical or costly.

Our split seals are engineered for high reliability, matching the performance of traditional cartridge seals in many applications. They are particularly advantageous in larger equipment, where cartridge seals might be difficult to install due to their size and weight.

While cartridge seals are often chosen for their pre-assembled, easy-to-install design, our split seals offer a comparable level of sealing effectiveness and longevity, with the added benefit of simpler installation in challenging or restricted spaces. This makes them a versatile and reliable choice in a wide range of industrial settings.

Enhancing the lifespan of your mechanical seal involves several key practices:

1. Proper Installation: Ensure that your mechanical seal is installed correctly. Incorrect installation can lead to premature failure. Always consult your Installation, Operation, and Maintenance (IOM) Manual, or call your Flexaseal representative for advice!
2. Appropriate Material Selection: Choose materials that are compatible with the media and operating conditions. Using the right materials can significantly extend the life of the seal.
3. Regular Maintenance: Routine inspections and maintenance can help identify and rectify issues before they lead to seal failure.
4. Operational Parameters: Operate your equipment within the specified limits for pressure, temperature, and speed to avoid overstressing the seal.
5. Use of Support Systems: Implement appropriate seal support systems, like filtration or cooling, to maintain optimal conditions for seal operation.

At Flexaseal, we also offer expert guidance and support to help you select and maintain the right seal for your specific application, further ensuring the longevity and reliability of your mechanical seals.

Contact us today!