For Plan32 sealing flush fluid, is it necessary to turn off the external flush fluid after stopping the pump?
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Do ordinary heavy oil pumps require the external seal flushing fluid to be turned off after shutdown? Or maintain a minimum flow rate?
It is highly recommended not to turn them off. In our facility, the pumps used in catalysis and coking processes once had their flushing functions disabled while they were in standby mode, as part of efforts to reduce energy consumption. Over time, blockages and coking occurred inside these pumps, and when they were turned back on, leaks appeared in the seals. . . . . Of course, it also depends on whether your sealing type is a spring or a bellows. However, I still recommend not turning it off – at least leave it slightly open!
Before starting the pump, turn on the 32 system for flushing; after stopping the pump, shut down the 32 flushing system only when the temperature in the sealing chamber is below 80°C. The flow rate for external flushing is generally around 8-20 L/min; if there is a concern that the medium might enter the sealing chamber, a lower flow rate is used, though this results in higher costs.
Most of the pumps in our company are of the PLAN54 type; after the pump is stopped, the flushing water flow isn’t turned off, and the pump continues to operate at normal flow and pressure.
Is the flushing oil pump connected in series or parallel? Is it equipped with a single motor or two motors?
I have two here, one in use and one as a backup
First, we need to understand the function of the flushing fluid. Its purpose is to prevent particulate matter from accumulating on the surfaces of the mechanical seal, thereby avoiding any impact on the seal’s performance. Therefore, the flushing in Plan32 seals is primarily aimed at removing such accumulated substances and preventing damage to the seal; as a result, it should not be turned off
PLAN54 is a pressurized double-end face design; if only scheme 54 is used, the sealing consists of 2 stationary rings and 2 moving rings in between. Is the flushing water shared among them? Still a series-mounted seal – are there any other options?
It depends on the operating conditions, properties of the medium, and sealing structure; generally, it is recommended to keep the sealing area free from condensation, buildup, and burning