Mechanical seals are sealing elements located between the rotating shaft and affixed part of a rotating device that works with fluids. They are most commonly used in pumps. Mechanical seals are designed to replace packing seals and they have considerable competitive advantages, such as the virtual non-existence of leaks, reduction in friction, which prevents the wear of the shaft and ensuing loss of power, reduction in maintenance times and costs and the possibility of working at high pressures. The dynamic sealing in mechanical seals is achieved by means of a thin film of fluid between both overlapping contact surfaces, thus preventing the rest of the fluid from passing through. This film also serves as a lubricant and reduces wear between surfaces.
To select the appropriate mechanical seal, it is necessary to know the operating conditions of the application that is to be sealed: shaft diameter and rotation speed, dimensions of the seal housing, physical characteristics of the fluids to be sealed, and in order to determine chemical compatibility; existence of abrasive suspended solids or permitted lubrication and the working temperature and pressure.
Industrial sectors are all subject to increasingly strict regulations. It is very important to prevent the contamination of the processed products and ensure the safety of both the working staff and the equipment in all facilities. To that end, all used materials comply with the different sector-based regulations.