A mechanical seal is prone to breakage if not accurately installed. When installing seals for any application, make sure to use an established method to achieve consistent performance.
Here’s how to handle your mechanical seal for a successful installation.
Follow the Installation Instructions
To successfully install mechanical seals, you must read the installation instructions carefully and follow each step. For instance, the installation instructions require you to remove the spacers before starting the unit. Failing to do so causes the spacer to become lodged in the seal and damage internal components.
Avoid Installing on a Misaligned Pump
Pump misalignment is usually caused by deflection during hard start, shaft runout, pipe strain, or other scenarios. Misalignment puts excessive stress on mechanical seal components causing them to fail potentially, wear prematurely, and malfunction. In addition to following the exact installation instructions, use laser alignment tools to ensure that the pump is set for success.
Lubricate Properly
Lubrication allows proper mechanical seal installation. The absence of lubrication can damage O-rings or rubber bellows on the seal that causes tear. A diverse range of lubricants, including silicone or grease, can be used. However, ensure that the lubrication you choose is compatible with mechanical seal components and the pumped product.
Clean Your Work Surface and Hands
Dirt and oil on seal face and fingerprints can cause a mechanical seal to fail. Tiny particles lead to wear and destroy seal surfaces, causing leakage. Follow these tips for proper handling of the mechanical seal during installation:
- Don’t unpack the seal until it’s ready to install
- Wash hands
- Avoid touching lapped seal faces
- Use clean tissue paper on the workbench to avoid contamination
- Keep the seal facing upwards
- Clean faces with soft tissue and approved solvent before you put them together on the equipment
Avoid Over-Tightening Fasteners
Over-tightening fasteners during seal installation are one of the most common mistakes that can damage seal components and cause them to leak. Loosen them to resolve the issue if the internals haven’t already broken due to the mechanical shock.
At Robco of America, we help implement precautionary measures inside business corporations to help industries flourish. We provide the best repair solutions, engineered seal parts, atomizer seal repair, cartridge mechanical seals, and more to fulfill all your mechanical seal needs. We can repair all makes and models.
We also offer 24/7 emergency services for urgent repair at any time. For more information and details, call us at 800-662-0585.
