Mechanical Seal Refurbishment

Sigma Seals - Mechanical Seal Refurbishment

MECHANICAL SEAL REFURBISHMENT

Refurbishing a Mechanical Seal involves several sequential steps to restore its functionality and extend its service life. The process requires thorough inspection, cleaning, and replacement of worn-out parts.

We follow the step-by-step procedure below for Mechanical Seal Refurbishment.

1. Receiving and Initial Inspection

  • Record the seal model number, type, and serial number.
  • Inspect the overall condition for damage, wear, corrosion, or cracks.
  • Check for operational failure modes, such as leakage, thermal damage, or excessive wear.
  • Take photos of the seal before disassembly for reference.

2. Disassembly

  • Carefully dismantle the mechanical seal using appropriate tools to avoid further damage.
  • Separate individual components, such as the rotating face, stationary face, springs, O-rings, and gland plate.
  • Arrange the parts systematically for further examination.
  • Label all components for easy identification and reassembly.

3. Detailed Inspection of Components

  • Use precision instruments (micrometer, Vernier caliper, dial gauge) to check dimensions and tolerances.
  • Inspect the seal faces for cracks, pitting, or scoring.
  • Examine the O-rings, gaskets, and elastomers for hardness, brittleness, or swelling.
  • Check the metal parts (springs, retainers, gland plate) for corrosion, deformation, or erosion.
  • Document all wear patterns and abnormalities.

4. Cleaning of Components

  • Use an ultrasonic cleaner or chemical cleaning solution to remove deposits and contaminants.
  • Carefully clean seal faces with lint-free cloth and approved solvent.
  • Ensure that metallic parts are free from rust, debris, or chemical buildup.
  • Rinse and dry all components before further processing.

5. Lapping & Polishing

  • Recondition seal faces using a lapping machine to restore smoothness.
  • Achieve a fine, mirror-like surface finish for a proper sealing interface.
  • Check flatness using an optical flat and monochromatic light.

6. Replacement of Worn or Damaged Parts

  • Replace worn-out O-rings, gaskets, springs, and elastomers with new ones.
  • If seal faces are badly damaged, install new compatible seal faces.
  • Ensure replacements match material compatibility requirements.

7. Reassembly of the Mechanical Seal

  • Carefully reassemble the seal, ensuring all components are correctly positioned.
  • Apply the correct lubrication or anti-seize compounds where needed.
  • Verify the spring tension and alignment of rotating and stationary components.

8. Final Inspection and Testing

  • Check the axial and radial runout to ensure alignment.
  • Perform a pressure or vacuum test to confirm seal integrity.
  • Verify that the seal moves freely without excessive friction.
  • Confirm the seal meets OEM specifications.

9. Documentation and Packing

  • Document refurbishment details, including replaced parts and test results.
  • Apply protective coatings if necessary for storage.
  • Package the seal securely for safe transportation.

This process ensures that the Mechanical Seal is restored to optimal working condition before being reinstalled in a pump or rotating equipment.