How Mechanical Seals Make Workplaces Safer

There are many hazards in industrial operations, so it’s best to use the safest option available when it comes to equipment. Sealing your machines is no different. Traditional gland packing inevitably leaks and requires constant attention. On the other hand, mechanical seals are able to reduce leakage to a near zero number. There are a wide range of reasons why mechanical seals are the superior option:

Reduced Leakage

The first concern of any sealing system is: does it leak? With mechanical seals, there should be virtually no leakage. When the correct seal is chosen, accounting for all the variables in an operation, it will withstand the forces acting upon it.

Why is leakage a problem? Many products being forced through machinery have extremely toxic properties for humans and the environment. Reducing leaks to a near zero number is paramount to the health of those working around the machinery and the surrounding environment. Fumes can have a similar effect and sealing systems can be made to be air-tight. Some chemicals are so toxic that even a small amount can be harmful, so any level of leakage is unacceptable.

Toxicity isn’t the only concern when it comes to how safe a fluid is. Flammable fluids can cause major damage to an operation if they ignite, not to mention the potential loss of life. Extremely acidic or basic solutions can damage equipment and personnel, as well.

With gland packing, there is always a certain amount of product loss and it can gradually pool up on the floor or other surfaces, with cleaning itself becoming a hazard if the product is unsafe. Slipping can become a real hazard, especially when workers are rushing around trying to work as quickly and efficiently as possible. Accidents should be prevented in every possible way.

Less Maintenance

Traditional gland packing requires continual upkeep as the packing wears down over time. This requires maintenance staff to always be checking and fixing the packing, leaving them exposed to the product. If the machine has moving parts, then it becomes an even more dangerous exercise. Pinched digits and limbs, crushing, and even amputation can occur if machinery is powerful enough; so having mechanical seals that require less frequent maintenance requirements limits exposure to such dangers.

Prevents Wear

Mechanical seals also reduce friction between mechanical parts and are superior to gland packing, which are notorious for increased friction. This constant rubbing can lead to catastrophic failure and dangerous situations. Dual mechanical sealing systems can be installed to create a fail safe environment should the first seal rupture.

Some Tips to Keep your Seals Safe

While mechanical seals are the safest option, it is also necessary to keep an eye on them to make sure they aren’t wearing. Regularly assessing the various elements of an operation to ensure they aren’t outputting more strain than they should be is essential. If you notice that a seal is beginning to leak or allow fumes to escape, it’s vital to replace the seal as any amount of leaking can indicate that it is wearing and could fail, or that it has uncoupled from its surfaces.

Use an Expert

To ensure that your operation and the seals you use in it are the safest possible, you should use an expert company for product and consultation. Real Seal is a leader in the sealing industry. Contact Real Seal today to make your place of work the safest it can be!