Sealing of reciprocating compressors
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After replacing the seals of the previous double-acting compressor and testing for leaks using nitrogen, there was a leak at the packing area; so would leaks be more severe if another fluid were used? ? ?
Yes, hydrogen molecules are smaller in size than nitrogen molecules
Some packing shows slight leakage during testing, but may not leak during operation, as it operates at a constant temperature; the specific amount of leakage is determined based on empirical rules
Leakage during shutdown is normal, as the packing constitutes a dynamic seal that will leak when at rest; it stops leaking once operation resumes