One often overlooked measure to ensure that a mechanical seal can function at its peak efficiency is to properly lubricate the seal. A properly lubricated seal is important because if a seal is not lubricated, it can lead to break-downs of pumps, as well as other potential damages to parts and machines which utilize mechanical seals. When a seal is properly lubricated, however, then it will be much more reliable and lead to fewer breakdowns. Fortunately, “Lubrication related failures are the most preventable type of machinery failures. With sufficient attention to details, they should be rare events. It is normally through the neglect of lubricants and lubrication systems that equipment fails prematurely.”1 Lubrication is also necessary “for proper mechanical seal installation. Lack thereof can damage o-rings or rubber bellows on the seal, causing them to tear, or roll.”2 As for what lubricant may be considered best, it is highly advised to “refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation”3 when selecting an appropriate lubricant.
Oil lubricants can be quite useful in lubrication processes because oil can help with sealing. “At the same time as it lubricates and cools, the lubricating oil also acts as a sealing agent, preventing the lubricant from flowing out and the entry of external contaminants.”4 Typically, “Mineral oils are the most commonly used industrial lubricants due to their relatively low cost.”5 At times, grease is preferred as a lubricant. Grease is usually used as a lubricant in “lower speed applications (1800 rpm or less).”6 Here at EMC, we are experts at lubricating seals and we would be more than happy to assist you with your seal lubrication needs!
1 https://www.industrial-electronics.com/engineering-industrial/rotating-2.html
2 https://blog.craneengineering.net/5-ways-to-kill-a-mechanical-seal-during-installation
3 same as 1
4 https://alsglobal.blog/en/the-five-basic-functions-oil-lubricant/
5 same as 1
6 same as 1