Mechanical seal failures in process plant

Abstract

IN THE past, many chemical process plant operators have expressed concern about the inconsistencies experienced in mechanical seal reliability. Late in 1981 a paper from Exxon, published by the American Society of Lubrication stated that a population of 14,000 centrifugal pumps cost in excess of $15 million per year to maintain, and that 70% of this cost was attributable to mechanical seal failure. In addition to the strong economic incentive to cut failure rates, health and safety considerations also require a better knowledge of mechanical seal operation and behaviour.

Citation

(1983), "Mechanical seal failures in process plant", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 35 No. 4, pp. 138-139. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb053268