From the book "The Practical Handbook of Machinery Lubrication"
When a seal fails, don't just replace it. Determine the real
cause of failure. Some causes for failures, which are often
ignored, are listed below.
1. Misalignment of components.
2. Poor bearing lubrication.
3. Vibration of rotating components.
4. Contaminated fluid (water, acids or particulate).
5. Twisting condition due to "soft foot" at mounting pads.
6. Poor component base plate grouting or mounting.
7. Rotor imbalance or shaft whip.
8. Inadequate flushing procedures during commissioning or start-up after repairs.
9. Poor, or careless seal or bearing installation.
10. Piping strains, due to misalignment or temperature variations.
11. Looseness of bolts and brackets.
12. Addition of incompatible fluid.
13. An increase in temperature (or a dramatic change in temperature).
14. Unclean operating conditions (causing dirt ingression).
15. A change in filtration practices.
Selecting the correct seal is only the beginning of sound equipment operation. Ongoing predictive condition monitoring using vibration and fluid analysis, a regular review of equipment operating logs and the implementation of a sound preventive maintenance program, will ensure the long life of seals, eliminating leaks and environmental damage and will add millions of dollars to the bottom line.
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