How Do You Identify Mechanical Seal

Mechanical Seals

Todd

2024-06-04

Gather Information About the Existing Seal

Gather information includes locating any part numbers, model numbers, or other identifying information on the seal itself.

It’s also important to note the make and model of the pump that the seal is used in. This information can help narrow down the specific type of seal needed.

If you don’t have any information about existing mechanical seal, you can still identify some of the components by following these steps.

Indentifying Mechanical Seal

Step 1. Types of Spring

Single springs: The most basic type, consisting of a single coil that provides the necessary force to maintain proper sealing.
Multi-spring arrangements: Feature multiple coils working together to provide a more even distribution of force.
Wave springs: Characterized by their unique, wave-like shape.
Bellows: A type of seal that relies on a flexible, accordion-like structure rather than a traditional spring.

Step 2. Types of Seal Face

Ceramic: Seal faces made from ceramic materials typically have a white or light gray color.
Aluminium Bronze, Brass, or Bronze: Seal faces constructed from aluminium bronze, brass, or bronze often exhibit a yellowish or golden hue.
Silicon Carbide: Silicon carbide seal faces are typically dark gray or black in color.
Tungsten Carbide: Seal faces made from tungsten carbide have a dark gray or black appearance, similar to silicon carbide.
Carbon: Carbon seal faces are black in color.

Step 3. Types of Elastomer

Nitrile (NBR): Typically black, this elastomer has a smooth, matte surface.
Fluorocarbon (FKM): Commonly found in black or brown, fluorocarbon elastomers like Viton have a smooth, glossy surface.
Ethylene Propylene (EPDM): Usually black, though also available in white or gray, EPDM has a slightly rough, matte surface.
Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM): These elastomers, such as Kalrez or Chemraz, are often black or gray with a smooth, matte surface.
Silicone: Typically translucent or white, silicone elastomers have a smooth, glossy surface.
Neoprene: Neoprene is black and features a smooth, matte surface.

Step 4. Types of Metallurgy

Seals are commonly crafted from brass or bronze, along with 304 or 316 Stainless Steel. Monel serves in seawater environments, while Hastelloy excels in high-temperature applications.