Mechanical Seal Failure: Four Major Causes in 2025
Mechanical seal failure is a common issue in pumps and rotating equipment, often leading to costly downtime. For example, factors like wear, corrosion, and high temperatures cause seal leakage. Therefore, understanding these causes is critical for improving reliability. This guide explores four major reasons for mechanical seal failure to help engineers prevent leaks.
Loss of Lubricating Film
Mechanical seal failure often occurs due to the loss of the lubricating film between seal faces. For instance, dry friction during pump startup, caused by insufficient liquid in the sealing chamber, leads to wear. Additionally, if the medium’s pressure falls below its saturation vapor pressure, rapid evaporation removes the liquid film, causing lubrication loss. Moreover, volatile media or blockages in the cooling system increase vapor pressure, further contributing to seal leakage. Learn more at John Crane’s Homepage.
Corrosion Damage
Corrosion is another key cause of mechanical seal failure. For example, corrosive media can damage or harm sealing surfaces, leading to leaks. Specifically, tungsten carbide rings and stainless steel seats are prone to corrosion at inlay points. Furthermore, welded components like bellows or springs may rupture under stress in corrosive environments. As a result, corrosion significantly reduces seal lifespan. Refer to AESSEAL’s Homepage for mitigation strategies.
High-Temperature Effects
High temperatures frequently lead to mechanical seal failure in oil pumps. For instance, dry friction, cooling water loss, or impurities cause hot cracking, resulting in radial cracks on seal rings. Additionally, carbon graphite rings may carbonize at extreme temperatures, causing material buildup and seal damage. Moreover, auxiliary seals like fluororubber or EPDM age rapidly when overheated, losing elasticity. Consequently, high-temperature effects are a major factor in seal leakage. Explore Flowserve’s Homepage for insights.
Wear on Sealing End Faces
Wear is a primary reason for mechanical seal failure due to poor material choices or high friction. For example, materials like silicon carbide offer better wear resistance than ceramics or welded alloys. However, solid particles in the medium increase abrasiveness, accelerating wear. Furthermore, the balance degree (β) affects wear; a β of 75% is ideal, while lower values (65-70%) suit high-load seals, and higher values (80-85%) reduce vaporization in low-boiling hydrocarbons. Thus, proper material selection and balance prevent seal leakage. Check World Pumps’ Resources for material rankings.
Conclusion
In summary, mechanical seal failure results from lubrication loss, corrosion, high temperatures, and wear. By addressing these causes, engineers can enhance pump reliability and reduce maintenance costs. For further guidance, consult industry resources or sealing experts.
