PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
(OP)
PROBLEM: Unfortunately site has no more 1.5" square PTFE braided packing in stores for their water seal stuffing box, located on one of their hydraulic turbine units.
Shipping is 7-10 days and they need the unit online ASAP. The question is, can we compress 1.25" square braid (in stock) to fit into the 1.5" gap to form a sufficient water seal until the right packing arives on site?
The turbine shaft is 16" dia., rotates at 150rpm & the river water temp would not exceed room temperature. Maximum pressure is aprox. 30psi. My only concern was if the 1.25" packing was not compressed enough, it could loosen and uncoil or simply allow excessive leakage.
Anyone have experience with this kind of application?
Thanks, KMP
Shipping is 7-10 days and they need the unit online ASAP. The question is, can we compress 1.25" square braid (in stock) to fit into the 1.5" gap to form a sufficient water seal until the right packing arives on site?
The turbine shaft is 16" dia., rotates at 150rpm & the river water temp would not exceed room temperature. Maximum pressure is aprox. 30psi. My only concern was if the 1.25" packing was not compressed enough, it could loosen and uncoil or simply allow excessive leakage.
Anyone have experience with this kind of application?
Thanks, KMP





RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
Cut the ends on bias and pack with the cuts at least 90° apart.
Make sure you seat the packing as you go.
If you are using a lantern ring make sure you used it.
Once you set the packing follower try to turn the shaft as you will probably have several more rings of packing.
A little leak is OK, in fact I like it.
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
Of course you'd use someone else's coffeecup for both the test and the calibration.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
Use one that's newer than unclesyd, or me.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
You can also think of insitu packing.
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
Regards, KMP
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
hanks for the follow up.
RE: PTFE Pump packing (stuffing box) sizing problem
Appreciate your follow up.