How to Install a Split Seal

Step 1: Inspecting the Shaft and Housing

Carefully examine the condition of the shaft and housing. Check for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion that could compromise the seal’s effectiveness. Ensure that the shaft surface is smooth and free from scratches, nicks, or other irregularities that may cause leaks or premature seal failure. If any defects are found, address them before proceeding with the installation.

Step 2: Check the Split Seal

Verify that the split seal is compatible with the operating parameters of the equipment. This includes factors such as temperature, pressure, speed, and the type of fluid being sealed. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications and compare them to the application requirements to ensure proper selection and fitment of the seal.

Step 3: Clean Surfaces

Clean all relevant surfaces to remove contaminants such as dirt, grease, or old sealing materials. Use appropriate solvents and cleaning agents as recommended by the seal manufacturer.

Step 4: Positioning the Seal

Begin by separating the split seal into its two halves. Carefully place each half around the shaft, ensuring that the sealing surfaces are facing the correct direction. The split joint, where the two halves come together, should be oriented according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Common orientations include positioning the split at a 45-degree angle from the bottom dead center or aligning it with the shaft keyway.

Step 5: Seating the Seal

Gently press the seal halves together by hand, ensuring that they are evenly aligned and fully seated against the shaft and housing surfaces. Take care not to pinch or damage the sealing elements during this process.

Step 6: Add lubricant

If recommended by the seal manufacturer, apply a thin layer of lubricant to the sealing surfaces before final seating. This lubricant helps to reduce friction during installation and initial operation, preventing damage to the seal and ensuring smooth rotation. Use only lubricants approved by the manufacturer to avoid compatibility issues or premature seal degradation.

When seating the seal halves, use a uniform and steady pressure to compress them together. Avoid using excessive force, as this can cause distortion or damage to the sealing elements. If necessary, use a soft-faced hammer or a specialized tool provided by the manufacturer to gently tap the seal into place.

Step 7: Securing the Seal

With the split seal properly seated, the next step is to secure it in place to maintain compression and prevent movement during operation. This process typically involves installing a cover plate or gland, depending on the specific seal design and application.

If a cover plate is required, position it over the split seal, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the shaft and housing. Secure the cover plate using the appropriate fasteners, such as bolts or cap screws. Tighten the fasteners evenly and in a crisscross pattern to ensure uniform compression of the seal. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended torque values to avoid over-tightening, which can cause distortion or damage to the seal and cover plate.

In some applications, a gland may be used instead of a cover plate. The gland is placed over the split seal and secured to the housing using studs or bolts. As with the cover plate, tighten the fasteners evenly and in a crisscross pattern to ensure uniform compression. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for torque values and any specific installation instructions.

Throughout the securing process, take care not to overtighten the fasteners or apply uneven pressure to the seal. Doing so can cause the seal to distort, leading to leaks or premature failure. Double-check the alignment of the cover plate or gland to ensure that it is seated correctly and not interfering with the rotation of the shaft.

Step 8: Final Checks

Manually rotate the shaft by hand to ensure smooth and unobstructed movement. Feel for any unusual resistance, binding, or roughness that may indicate an issue with the seal installation. If any irregularities are detected, investigate and address them before proceeding.

Next, visually inspect the seal and surrounding area for any signs of damage, misalignment, or initial leaks. Pay close attention to the split joint, ensuring that it is properly aligned and not showing any gaps or unevenness. If any issues are found, disassemble the seal and repeat the installation process, making necessary adjustments to correct the problem.

Finally, if possible, perform a short operational test run of the equipment under normal conditions. During this test, monitor the seal for any unusual noise, vibration, or temperature rise that may indicate a problem. Also, check for any leaks or visible damage to the seal or surrounding components.

If all final checks are satisfactory, the split seal installation is complete, and the equipment can be returned to normal service. Be sure to document the installation process, including any specific measurements, adjustments, or observations made during the procedure. This documentation can be valuable for future reference, troubleshooting, or maintenance tasks.