Do mechanical seals need lubrication?

Could it be , perhaps, that these pumps at on stage had conventionally packed glands and were modified for mechanical seals.

I think that this is more than likely the case than a mechanical seal being lubricated. The faces of these seals need to be scrupulously clean when being assembled otherwise damage will occur to the seal, I feel that any lubrication would exacerbate the problem.e.g. picking up dirt and dust particles and scoring the seal faces.

Would be interesting to know more about the application itself: temp, concentration, share of solid content, type and material of pumps used and their seals (single, double, internal/external, seal face material). maybe then can give some advice.

The pump you are using, a split case centrifugal, most definitely needs the seals lubricated if the pump has that type of sealing arrangement. The lubrication can be from the pumped medium if it is compatible with the seal components, or it can be grease lubricated. Another lubrication is from an outside water source pumped to the mechanical seal. The use of packed stuffing boxes as stated by others is also an option, but that, too requires lubrication. Again, that can be grease or water as with the mechanical seal.

One more thing. If the pump you are using is a split case pump, some manufacturers of split case pumps use internal passage ways to direct the pumped medium to the seal area for lubrication. Tha may explain why there are no tubes on some of your pumps.

Dear Brad,

No need to lubricate a mechanical seal.It should be cooled or flushed depending on your application and working conditions.By working conditions i mean fluid pumped,fluid temperature,pressure and others.In your case of a split casing pump you need to consult the pump manufacturer who will be able to select you the suitable mechanical seal.

If you still need more detailed information,please tell me.

Regards,

Sayed Sarhan

Dear Mr. Sarhan:

You may call it "cooling" the mechanical seal, but if you will check with those in the industry, they choose to call it lubricating. In any event, some type of ,I'll call it lubricant, needs to be introduced to the seal area to "cool" if you will, or lubricate the seal.