Chapter 28 - Failure of mechanical seals in centrifugal pumps: Part two

Abstract

This chapter addresses the key points related to two potential problem areas when troubleshooting mechanical seal failures, namely the pump's operating envelope and process transients, and the pump's start-up procedure. A seal failure is often diagnosed through visual inspection of the failed seal's components. To arrive at the true cause of seal failure, it is necessary to—review the pump's design, review the piping system and vessels, define the fluid characteristics, understand the pump's operating envelope and process transients, review the pump's start-up procedure, review the pump's repair procedures, review the mechanical seal design, and review the mechanical seal flushing arrangement. Further, a lack of concern for the unusual operating conditions or lack of attention to seal support facilities during pump start-up contribute greatly to premature seal failure.