Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide
Verified by Rachel Mayfield, Supply Chain Analyst - April 2026
valve system in a mechanical setting." width="800" height="533" loading="lazy" style="width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:8px">What Are the Key Differences Between Single and Double Mechanical Seals?
Single mechanical seals consist of a single set of sealing faces designed to seal against the process fluid being pumped. Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide They're simpler in design and more cost-effective, but they don't provide protection for the environment in case of failure.
Double mechanical seals, on the other hand, use two sets of sealing faces separated by a barrier fluid or gas between them. This setup protects the environment from potentially harmful process fluids if one seal fails, making double seals safer and suitable for hazardous applications.
How Do Cartridge Seals Differ From Split Seals?
Cartridge seals are pre-assembled units that slide into a housing gland without the need for any on-site assembly or machining. They simplify installation and maintenance but require a specific pump design to accommodate them.
Split seals feature removable, split-housing designs allowing easy access for routine maintenance and replacement of worn components without removing the pump from service. This makes split seals ideal for installations where downtime is expensive.
What Are Common Face Materials in Mechanical Seals?
Face materials include carbon/graphite, SiC (silicon carbide), tungsten carbide, and ceramic. Carbon/graphite offers good wear resistance at lower speeds but can be less effective with aggressive media. SiC provides excellent wear resistance and chemical compatibility for high-temperature applications. Tungsten carbide is highly durable against abrasive fluids, while ceramics offer superior corrosion resistance.
How Do You Select the Right Elastomer?
Elastomers like Buna-N (Nitrile), Viton, EPDM, and silicone determine the seal's ability to withstand various media and temperatures. For example, Buna-N is ideal for oils and fuels but not for steam or solvents; Viton offers resistance to many chemicals but has a higher cost.
What Is API 682?
API 682 outlines standard practices for mechanical seals in pumps. Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide includes plans from Plan 11 through Plan 54, which detail various seal designs and barrier fluid systems that provide different levels of protection based on process conditions.
How Does EN 12756 Fit In?
EN 12756 categorizes pump seals into balanced and unbalanced types. Balanced seals distribute hydraulic forces across the sealing surfaces, reducing friction and wear, while unbalanced designs concentrate these forces at one point, leading to higher operating temperatures and pressures.
What Are Key Selection Criteria for Mechanical Seals?
Selecting a mechanical seal involves assessing shaft speed (measured in metres per second), pressure (in bar or MPa), temperature range, and the nature of the media being pumped. Clean water applications require different seals than those needed for slurries or chemicals with corrosive properties.
What Are Common Causes of Seal Failure?
Dry running occurs when a seal operates without sufficient lubrication, leading to wear and failure. Thermal shock happens when sudden changes in temperature cause material expansion or contraction that can break the seal faces apart. Chemical attack damages seals exposed to aggressive media over time. Misalignment between rotating shafts and stationary parts causes excessive wear on the mechanical seal.
What Are Some Environmental Impacts of Poorly Chosen Seals?
Poorly chosen seals can lead to environmental contamination, especially in double seal applications where a failed barrier fluid system exposes hazardous process fluids to the environment. It's important for pump engineers to follow guidelines like API 682 and EN 12756 to ensure proper selection and reduce the risk of leaks.
How Can Procurement Managers Ensure They Are Buying High-Quality Seals?
Procurement managers should look for seals certified by relevant trade bodies such as CBM, BIAFD, BTMA, and BPMA. These certifications guarantee that the products meet stringent quality standards set forth by industry leaders. Additionally, sourcing from reputable manufacturers with a track record of reliability is important.
How Do You Maintain Mechanical Seals Once Installed?
Regular maintenance includes checking for leaks, inspecting wear on faces, and ensuring proper alignment between shafts and seals. Keeping detailed records of maintenance activities helps predict when components need replacing before they fail.
What Are Some Emerging Trends in Seal Design?
Advancements include the development of more strong materials like tungsten carbide and ceramic composites that offer improved durability against harsh operating conditions. At Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide, additionally, predictive analytics tools are being integrated to monitor seal performance in real-time, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this guide cover?
This guide covers mechanical seal types and selection guide with practical selection criteria, real specifications, and references to ISO and BS standards. Written for UK engineers and procurement professionals.
What are the primary considerations when selecting between single and double mechanical seals for a UK engineering project?
When choosing between single and double mechanical seals, consider the process fluid's potential environmental impact and safety requirements. Single seals are simpler and less costly but lack environmental protection in case of failure, whereas double seals offer enhanced safety by isolating the process fluid with a barrier fluid or gas.
How does the installation process differ for cartridge seals compared to split seals as described in the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
Cartridge seals require specific pump designs due to their pre-assembled nature, simplifying installation but limiting flexibility. Split seals offer easy access without removing the pump from service, making them suitable for applications where downtime is costly.
What are some common face materials used in mechanical seals as outlined in the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
Common face materials include carbon/graphite and SiC (silicon carbide). These materials provide durability and resistance to various process fluids, ensuring reliable performance across different operating conditions.
According to the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide, what are some UK suppliers of mechanical seals that engineers should consider for their projects?
Engineers can refer to the guide for a list of reputable UK suppliers like Seals International, Tameson Ltd., and Alfa Laval. These companies offer various types of mechanical seals suitable for diverse industrial applications.
What factors influence the cost and availability of different mechanical seal types as detailed in the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
The guide highlights that cost and availability depend on factors such as material type, complexity (e.g., single vs. double seals), and specific design requirements like cartridge or split configurations. More specialized designs may have higher costs due to manufacturing details and limited production runs.
What are the primary types of mechanical seals mentioned in the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
The guide discusses single and double mechanical seals, along with cartridge and split seal variants. Single seals are simpler and more cost-effective but lack environmental protection upon failure. Double seals use two sets of sealing faces with a barrier fluid for added safety.
How does one choose between a cartridge seal and a split seal according to the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
The guide advises selecting a cartridge seal if ease of installation and maintenance are priorities, as these pre-assembled units fit into specific pump designs without on-site assembly. For applications requiring frequent maintenance access, the guide recommends split seals due to their removable design that allows easy component replacement.
What common face materials for mechanical seals are detailed in the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
The guide highlights carbon/graphite and SiC (silicon carbide) as typical face materials used in mechanical seals. Carbon/graphite offers good wear resistance and is suitable for a variety of fluids, while SiC provides high corrosion resistance and durability.
Where can UK engineers find information on standards and suppliers listed in the Mechanical Seal Types and Selection Guide?
The guide references ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) and API (American Petroleum Institute) standards relevant to mechanical seal design and safety. For UK-specific suppliers, engineers are directed to consult local pump manufacturers or distributors who adhere to these international standards for reliable sourcing options.