If you’re no stranger to the mechanical field, you may still be having trouble troubleshooting specialty seals at the site of the pump itself. When a seal is in action, it can be difficult to tell exactly what’s going on. But being able to tell exactly what’s going on with your mechanical seal no matter where it’s in use is a sign of a veteran troubleshooter.
Our Real Seal experts want to shed some insight on the best ways to troubleshoot your specialty seals when they start to break down. From leakage to warping, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. Here’s how to handle them.
1. Know Your Leakage
The first step to troubleshooting your seals is to identify the different types of leakage that can go on with your seals themselves. You can tell what kind of leak you’re dealing with based on the visibility, odor, or general function of the leak. Identifying the leak at its source is a great way to get started figuring out the long-term solutions to your seal problems.
2. Find the Culprit
According to McNally Institute, there are multiple ways a leak can start. Some of the more common reasons for a leak springing include crystallization, dirt buildup, improper tightening, faulty installation, or the buildup of too much pressure.
The location of the leak is also very important. Did the problem occur in the gasket? What about the seal face or the shaft sleeve? The components of your machinery require careful attention and knowledge in order to be properly cared for. You can always reach out to our experts if you are having trouble identifying the source of the leak. Specialty seals are built to last, but they must also be maintained constantly.
3. Identify Alternative Causes
If some of the main causes of the failing seal are not identified, you might need to seek alternatives. Seals can fail for a variety of different reasons, including:
- Working against a stationary object
- Facing the wrong direction
- The seal is open
- There is too much heat or pressure in the shaft
If you end up being able to identify the source of the mechanical seal failure, you are ready to move on to the next step – implementing a solution.
4. Look Past the Leakage
Vibration and heat also play a huge part in seal failure. If you can’t find any signs of leakage, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re in the clear – you need to find what’s wrong before moving on to the solution stage.
Vibration that isn’t properly calibrated can cause the mechanical seal to be thrown off its own rhythm. This is very dangerous and damaging to the entire hydraulic system, as it can warp and bend other components out of shape as well. Make sure you review every possible opportunity before you are confident in the solution.
5. Find a Solution
Have you been able to successfully identify the source of the seal trouble? Was it a leak in a certain area, or perhaps a buildup of heat or vibration? Regardless of the cause, you now know how you can go about fixing it. Consult the instruction guide that came with your specialty seals to ensure that you properly installed and calibrated them. If you are looking for further assistance, our Real Seal pros are here to help!
Contact Real Seal For All Of Your Specialty Seal Needs!
At Real Seals, we don’t just sell specialty seals – we show you how to use them. If you’re looking for a specialty seal upgrade, or you are in need of further assistance for your own seal troubleshooting, look no further. Our pros would be happy to assist you. To get in touch with us, simply contact us online or give us a call at (800) 542-6162.
