6 Types of Mechanical Seals Explained

Mechanical seals are an essential component of pumps and other fluid handling equipment, ensuring that fluids are contained and do not leak out. There are different types of mechanical seals, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we'll focus on the balanced seal and other common types of mechanical seals.

6 Types of Mechanical Seals Explained

Balanced Seal

A balanced seal is a type of mechanical seal that features a set of opposing faces, one stationary and one rotating, that are both hydraulically balanced. This means that the pressure on both sides of the seal faces is equalized, preventing any net force from being exerted on the seal faces.

The balanced seal design is ideal for applications that involve high pressures or high speeds, as it reduces wear and prolongs the life of the seal. In addition, the balanced design ensures that there is no axial movement of the seal faces, making it more reliable than unbalanced seals.

Unbalanced Seal

An unbalanced seal is a type of mechanical seal that features a stationary seal face and a rotating seal face that is not hydraulically balanced. This means that the pressure on one side of the seal face is greater than the pressure on the other side, resulting in a net force being exerted on the seal faces.

Unbalanced seals are typically used in low-pressure and low-speed applications, as they are less reliable than balanced seals and can wear out more quickly.

Pusher Seal

A pusher seal is a type of mechanical seal that uses a set of springs to maintain contact between the seal faces. The springs exert a force on the rotating seal face, keeping it in contact with the stationary seal face.

Pusher seals are ideal for applications that involve abrasive or dirty fluids, as the springs can help to prevent wear and damage to the seal faces. However, they may not be suitable for high-pressure applications, as the springs can become overloaded and lose their effectiveness.

Non-Pusher Seal

A non-pusher seal is a type of mechanical seal that uses a series of O-rings or other elastomeric elements to maintain contact between the seal faces. Unlike pusher seals, they do not use springs to exert a force on the rotating seal face.

Non-pusher seals are typically used in low-pressure applications, as they are less reliable than pusher seals and can wear out more quickly.

Conventional Seal

A conventional seal is a type of mechanical seal that features a set of opposing seal faces, one stationary and one rotating. The seal faces are held in contact by a set of springs or other mechanical elements.

Conventional seals are commonly used in a variety of fluid handling applications, as they are reliable and relatively easy to maintain. However, they may not be suitable for high-pressure or high-speed applications, as they can wear out more quickly than other types of mechanical seals.

Cartridge Seal

A cartridge seal is a type of mechanical seal that is pre-assembled in a cartridge, making it easy to install and maintain. The cartridge contains all of the necessary components of the seal, including the seal faces, springs, and other mechanical elements.

Cartridge seals are ideal for applications that require frequent seal replacements, as they can be quickly and easily swapped out without the need for extensive disassembly of the pump or other equipment.

In conclusion, there are several types of mechanical seals available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type of seal for your application will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of fluid being handled, the pressure and speed of the equipment, and the environment in which it will be operating. The balanced seal is just one of several options, but it is a popular choice for many applications due to its reliability and long life.

Learn about the 6 types of mechanical seals, including their benefits and applications. Improve your machinery's performance and efficiency with the right seal.