Troubleshooting mechanical seals - Wide Wear track (part 2)

from Chesterton
Posted 9-27-03

ROTARY SEAL FACE - WIDE TRACK	STATIONARY SEAL FACE - NARROW

SYMPTOMS:
Wear track wider than narrow seal face

CAUSES:
Miscentering of stationary type seal
Radial shaft runout (bearing problem)
Shaft deflection/wobble during operation

FAILURE MODES:
Misinstallation
Equipment conditions
Equipment design

SOLUTIONS:
Check bearings for radial runout exceeding limit of seal type
Review installation techniques/instructions
Calculate L/D ratio for equipment - Upgrade if necessary