Sparks are appearing at the mechanical seal of the solvent pump
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We encountered a safety incident during production and would like to ask for everyone’s advice. When using an IHF corrosion-resistant pump to pump solvents, sparks appear at the mechanical seal. I would like to ask everyone how sparks are generated in this situation? The pump is not running dry; there is material in the solvent tank. The solvent is a mixture of benzene and **furan. This is the first time I’ve encountered such a situation. Initially, I think it’s the overheating of the friction surfaces of the mechanical seal that generates high temperatures, causing the leaking solvent to burn and produce sparks. I was wondering if any experienced members here could help analyze the cause. Is it a problem caused by the mechanical seal or something else?
In my opinion, it is friction between the components of the mechanical seal and the shaft that causes sparks; sparks are definitely generated by friction between metals. 1) For example, in the case of mechanical seals with cemented carbide or silicon carbide contact surfaces, sparks appear when there is friction between the parts of the seal itself after the contact surfaces wear out. 2. There is relative movement between the metal part of the mechanical seal and the shaft. Sparks will also be generated
Send over a schematic diagram of the existing mechanical seal on the pump
I’m not sure what type of mechanical seal you have, but generally speaking, friction between the rotating and stationary rings does not produce sparks – after all, they are immersed in a liquid medium, so how could visible sparks arise? It is more likely caused by friction between the mechanical seal shaft sleeve and the seal gland. For a seal that is being used for the first time, check whether the radial clearance between the gland and the shaft sleeve is even. For a seal that has been in use for some time, focus on checking whether the bearings are worn out or have excessive play.
Is it due to too high a flow rate, inadequate static grounding, or static sparks?
Benzene and **furan should be compatible with stainless steel pumps; using a corrosion-resistant pump can lead to static electricity buildup during high-speed rotation. Should some kind of anti-static agent be used?
The medium for benzene and **furan seems to be one in which static electricity tends to accumulate. . . This one is still a fluorine-lined pump. . . Is the seal area at zero potential? . Then static sparks were generated. . .
For IHF pumps, a standard WB2 bellows mechanical seal should be used. Personally, I recommend using magnetic pumps without seals for transporting hazardous materials such as those that are flammable or explosive, as this ensures safety and prevents leaks, eliminating the need for a mechanical seal! If you're interested, feel free to message me privately