Using Split Seals for Leak Free Turbine Shaft Sealing

OCTOBER 23, 2017 BY JOHN SOUSA

Fugitive Emissions: Understanding API Standards for Valves & Packing

JULY 18, 2017 BY GREG COLE

Since the introduction of the U.S. Clean Air Act in 1963, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and individual states have set increasingly stringent consent decrees for fugitive emissions from industrial facilities. Many companies have implemented Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) programs, and industry groups have focuses efforts on helping member companies decrease valve emissions.  Most recently, […]

Pump Sealing Basics: Mechanical Seals vs. Packing

MAY 15, 2017 BY RAMAN HANJRA

Mechanical seals vs. packing? Which is the best and most effective sealing technology for your pump or agitator application? Long ago, companies didn’t want to switch to mechanical seals because of the complicated installation and need to completely disassemble the equipment.  The invention of cartridge and split mechanical seals effectively eliminated those dilemmas, but many operations have […]

Stepping Up Your Chain Lubrication Program for Best Performance

APRIL 24, 2017 BY JESSICA DESROCHERS

Chains are the workhorses of many industrial production processes. But as important as chains are in the day-to-day functions of many plant operations, chain lubrication and maintenance is often an afterthought. The reality is that internal chain wear (especially in the popular metal-pin-and-bushing chain type) can put a real kink in production up-time if not […]

5 Key Features of Good Mechanical Seal Design

MARCH 1, 2017 BY MARCO HANZON

Mechanical seals come in a wide variety of designs. These designs differ in the way they are driven, the choice of secondary seals, and the location of the springs. Mechanical seals have all been designed to meet certain criteria in terms of application, cost, fit, ease of installation, and capability to seal. There are, however, a […]

Mechanical Seals & Equipment Conditions—Basic Rules

FEBRUARY 20, 2017 BY ANTIM PARIKH

Does the condition of the equipment affect the life and performance of the mechanical seal? The answer is yes. Equipment conditions play a very important part in determining overall seal life and reliability. Typically: Mechanical seals are installed onto a rotating shaft and designed to prevent visual leakage Two highly polished, spring-loaded “seal faces” come in […]

The Basics of Industrial Lubricant Selection

FEBRUARY 15, 2017 BY JESSICA DESROCHERS

There are several factors to consider when selecting the right industrial lubricant. A manufacturer’s recommendation is a great starting point, but it doesn’t have to be the only option. Most manuals are written for ideal conditions, but these guidelines don’t address the real environment in which the equipment is being used. What if your equipment manufacturer […]