Mechanical seals use pressure to seal objects together, preventing leaks in plumbing systems and other high pressure applications. They contain a fixed seal and sealing o-ring, and can be screw-tightened or use springs. Balanced seals are better for high pressure and low lubrication liquids, while unbalanced seals work well with misalignment and vibration. Cartridge seals are easier to install than standard seals.
A mechanical seal is a device that helps bring mechanisms or systems together using pressure. This type of gasket can be used in plumbing systems to prevent leaks in pipes and tubes. A mechanical seal can also be used for manufacturing and other high pressure applications.
Mechanical seals offer the necessary reconciliation and sealing between a stationary pump or compressor housing and a rotating shaft. They generally contain a key area such as a bushing or ring that is fitted and has a fixed seal caused by a rotating shaft or o-ring. Another portion is attached to the stationary housing which also carries a sealing o-ring.
A cap is a simple example of a mechanical seal. A stopper is made from a spongy material such as cork or rubber. When inserted into a hole it will press against the outside of the hole creating the mechanical pressure. The pressure from the plug will seal the hole and simultaneously prevent leaks.
A gasket works on similar principles and is another type of mechanical seal. Due to its spongy composition, it easily covers and seals the joint of the two objects. If the two objects to be joined are not aligned properly, the gasket can be used to bridge the gap, thus sealing the object.
Most mechanical seals work by screwing things together tightly. For example, when you screw a hose into a faucet, only a little water comes out. Since the faucet and hose fit snugly once joined together, no water will leak out of the seal.
Pusher mechanical seals typically use springs mounted axially on shaft seal assemblies to produce a fixed pressure on the seal face. Springs considered non-pushers, on the other hand, use no springs, favoring a sealed bellows to apply pressure to the halves of the object. Both are fairly simple to use, are relatively modestly priced, and are able to tolerate moderate amounts of vibration and misalignment.
Another type of mechanical seal is called a balanced mechanical seal. These seals are able to tolerate much higher pressure and work better with liquids with lower lubricating properties. Unbalanced seals are best suited for situations where there is an increased tendency for misalignment and vibration.
Standard mechanical seals are mainly used for compressor and pump upgrades, as well as retrofits. Some maintenance and engineering efforts may be required when using conventional mechanical seals. Cartridge seals can offer a simpler and easier to install product as they simply snap into the cartridge casing.
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