Mechanical Seal Fluid 1

[shahproject]

I have questions regarding mechanical seal fluid. Currently, I'am using process oil as seal fluid but the seal frequently fail. This could lead process oil pass through and react with process chemical thus jeopardize product quality & product color. I heard from somebody that the process oil could be change to pure water as mechanical seal fluid because water does not react with our product if there is failure of seal.

Could anybody give some comment on this idea.

 

[Artisi]

Firstly I would look at why there is frequent seal failures and then I would look at the buffer material.

 

[GPRnD]

Many fluids can be used as buffer/barrier fluids. Your choice of which depends on considering the following:

1. Compatibility with the mechanical seal face material (so as not to produce excessive seal face wear or failure)

2. Stability of the buffer fluid at the rated process conditions (i.e. polymerization, flashing, coking).

3. Compatibility of the buffer fluid with the pumped fluid

4. Cost of the buffer fluid

5. Desired pump efficiency (a very viscous barrier fluid will increase the mechanical seal losses significantly)


Personally I've seen Plan 53 systems using Univis J14 oil, Methanol, Water and many other interesting concoctions.

 

[shahproject]

Bradsi,

Compatibility of using water as buffer fluid to the system is proven by my counterparts in other region. Currently I am l study existing pump & piping to handle water.
The other concern is, should I add glycol in the water to give lubricant effect to the seal?