Improvement of the packing seal structure in reciprocating compressors
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As a dynamic seal, the packing in reciprocating compressors cannot achieve 100% leak-free operation during actual use. Part of the leaked fluid can be recovered through the vapor recovery system, while the rest is released directly into the atmosphere via the vent connection pipe on the receiver. Medium leakage increases production costs; therefore, changes to the packing structure are sought to address this issue.
To be specific, let’s see if I can help
The reciprocating compressors in our facility are facing the same problem as well. Especially after shutdown, the gap between the packing elements increases due to the drop in temperature, which leads to higher leakage and increased costs. Does the original poster have any good solutions? Please be sure to let me know
The packing can be replaced with soft packing; soft packing does not damage the shaft, provides reliable sealing, and the better the temperature, the better the sealing performance.
It is recommended to replace the radial ring and tangential switch with PEEK material!
It is made of PTFE material; PEEK is harder and can easily damage the shaft
Our company previously replaced a batch of seals on a large state-owned chemical plant in Qinghai that used PVC acetylene generators; we used a special mud-like, flexible filler, and as a result, there was virtually no leakage of acetylene gas. The soft mud-like filler was developed through a collaboration between our company and a materials company.
Improve the material of the radial and tangential rings, and add an additional flow-blocking ring to enhance the strength of the tangential rings
The packing of a reciprocating compressor generally consists of radial rings and tangential rings; in high-pressure compressors, an orifice ring is also added, as the sealing components are in direct contact with the piston rod. There is mutual wear, so sealing components have a certain lifespan and generally need to be replaced regularly. As mentioned above, a significant amount of leakage has occurred, which indicates that the wear of the radial ring is severe. This can lead to the disappearance of the gap between the three lobes, resulting in a certain gap between the radial ring and the piston rings; thus, substantial leakage is inevitable.