Seal Support Systems are critical components in various industrial applications that help prevent leaks and ensure efficient operation of rotating equipment.
They play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of sealing systems, reducing downtime, and minimizing maintenance costs.
This article will explore the different types of Seal Support Systems, their functions, and the benefits they offer in industrial settings.
What is Seal Support Systems
Seal support systems are auxiliary systems that ensure the proper operation of mechanical seals. They maintain the optimum environment for the seal faces by controlling the fluid around them.
How Do Seal Support Systems Work
Seal support systems ensure mechanical seals operate in the proper environment. They circulate clean barrier fluid around the seal, maintaining higher pressure than the process fluid to prevent leaks.
The system removes heat and contaminants from the seal chamber. It cools the barrier fluid, regulating seal temperature and extending seal life.
Components of Seal Support Systems
- Barrier Fluid Reservoir: This stores the barrier fluid, a clean and compatible liquid providing lubrication and cooling to the seals, ensuring a continuous supply for the system’s operation.
- Pressure Control Valve: Regulating the pressure of the barrier fluid, this valve maintains it within the desired range for optimal seal performance, thereby sustaining a positive pressure differential between the process and barrier fluids.
- Pumping System: Circulating the barrier fluid throughout the system, this can be a centrifugal pump, gear pump, or other types depending on specific application requirements.
- Heat Exchanger: Some systems incorporate a heat exchanger to control the barrier fluid’s temperature, removing excess heat generated during sealing operations to maintain optimal operating conditions.
- Instrumentation: Various instruments such as pressure gauges, temperature sensors, flow meters, and level indicators monitor and control system parameters, providing real-time data on performance.
- Filtration Unit: Responsible for removing contaminants from the barrier fluid, the filtration unit ensures its cleanliness, prolonging seal life and preventing damage, maintaining compatibility with sealing materials.
- Piping and Valves: These connect system components and regulate barrier fluid flow, designed to withstand the application’s pressure and temperature requirements.
Advantages of the Seal Support Systems
- Improved Seal Performance: Seal support systems maintain optimal operating conditions, including proper lubrication, cooling, and pressure control, leading to enhanced seal performance and a reduced risk of failure.
- Extended Seal Life: By providing necessary lubrication and temperature control, seal support systems reduce wear and tear on seals, thereby extending their lifespan and minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
- Reduced Downtime: Preventing seal failure helps avoid leaks, contamination, and equipment damage, minimizing unplanned downtime and associated costs, thus ensuring smooth operations.
- Compliance with Regulations: These systems ensure sealing systems operate within acceptable limits and reducing the risk of non-compliance.
- Cost-Effectiveness: By prolonging seal life and minimizing downtime, seal support systems offer long-term cost savings.
Types of Seal Support Systems
API Plan 52
API Plan 52 uses an external reservoir to provide buffer fluid to the seal. The reservoir is maintained at a higher pressure than the process fluid, creating a barrier between the process and atmosphere.
API Plan 53A
API Plan 53A recirculates barrier fluid from an external reservoir using a pumping ring. The barrier fluid is pressurized by a bladder accumulator and circulated through a heat exchanger to remove excess heat.
API Plan 54
API Plan 54 is a closed-loop system that circulates barrier fluid using an external pump. The pressurized barrier fluid is cooled and conditioned before returning to the seal, providing optimal sealing conditions.
Applications of Seal Support Systems
- Pumps: Seal support systems are used in centrifugal pumps to prevent leakage and maintain pump efficiency.
- Compressors: In compressors, seal support systems help prevent gas leakage and maintain proper lubrication of the seal faces.
- Mixers and agitators: Seal support systems are employed in mixing and agitation equipment to prevent contamination of the process fluid and ensure reliable operation.
- Reactors: In chemical reactors, seal support systems maintain the integrity of the mechanical seals, preventing leakage of hazardous or corrosive substances.
- Turbines: Seal support systems are used in steam and gas turbines to prevent steam or gas leakage and maintain optimal performance.
In conclusion
Seal support systems are crucial for optimal sealing performance and longevity.
Don’t let leaks and premature wear affect your operations.
Contact a trusted supplier today to find the best seal support solution for your applications.
