Tutorial - Guidelines for application of high temp dual seals

Guidelines for Application of High Temperature Dual Seals Gordon S. Buck Chief Engineer – Field Operations John Crane Inc Gordon S. Buck is Chief Engineer - Field Operation for John Crane Inc. Prior to joining John Crane, he held various positions in the chemical processing, refining and pump industries. Mr. Buck has authored several publications on pumps and mechanical seals. As a member of every API 682 Task Force, he helped to write the standard for mechanical seals. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Mr. Buck has a BS in mechanical engineering from Mississippi State University (1970) and an MS in mechanical engineering from Louisiana State University (1978). ABSTRACT High temperature services are one of the more challenging applications for mechanical seals. Herein are recommendations and guidelines for selection and application of dual metal bellows seals for use in high temperature centrifugal pumps. INTRODUCTION In most refineries and chemical plants, high temperature pumps were among the last to be converted to mechanical seals. Today, although some high temperature pumps still use packing, mechanical seals are the norm even at process temperatures well above 700 F. In some high temperature applications, fluids are being pumped that are solids at ambient temperature. Achieving good reliability under such difficult operating conditions requires not only an appropriate seal design but ...