Mechanical Rotating Solutions has achieved a remarkable milestone with its recent installation at a chrome mine in Limpopo, South Africa. In under three months, the newly installed 100mm FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal delivered cost savings from reduced maintenance and repair expenses that far exceeded its installation cost. This swift return on investment highlights the substantial financial benefits of upgrading to advanced mechanical seals, proving that efficiency and savings go hand in hand.
The notable installation of the FGDSS (Flue Gas Desulphurisation Single Slurry) N AES Mechanical Seal on a Warman 6/4 E AH WRT Tailings Pump aimed to replace the traditional gland packing with the advanced mechanical seal to ensure a leak-proof operation, enhance efficiency and extend the equipment’s lifespan while saving on energy and water consumption.
Benefits of the FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal
The FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal offers several significant advantages in slurry pump applications:
- Enhanced durability: The FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal is engineered to withstand the abrasive and corrosive conditions typical in slurry pumping. This robustness translates to a longer seal lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.
- Improved efficiency: Compared to traditional packing seals, mechanical seals like the FGDSS-N AES reduce friction and wear, leading to more efficient pump operation and lower energy consumption.
- Leak prevention: One of the key benefits of mechanical seals is their ability to provide a reliable and leak-free operation. This is crucial in slurry applications where leaks can cause environmental hazards and product loss.
- Lower maintenance requirements: The FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal is designed with robust materials that minimise the need for frequent maintenance and replacement, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Better performance in aggressive conditions: This mechanical seal performs exceptionally well under high pressure and temperature conditions, common in slurry pumping operations.
- Protection of pump components: By providing a reliable sealing solution, the mechanical seal helps protect other pump components from the abrasive effects of slurry, extending the overall lifespan of the pump.
Inspection results and performance
Since the installation, Mechanical Rotating Solutions has conducted three inspections over three months. The inspections revealed no leaks and no product loss, confirming the seal’s reliability. Additionally, no bearing contamination was detected in the bearing assembly after three months, indicating that the mechanical seal effectively protected the pump’s internal components.
The successful installation and performance of the 100mm FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal on the Warman 6/4 E AH WRT Tailings Pump at the chrome mine in Limpopo demonstrate the seal’s superiority over traditional gland packing. The project highlights the seal’s ability to enhance operational efficiency, ensure leak-proof operation and extend the equipment’s lifespan, ultimately leading to significant savings in energy and water consumption.
With its impressive durability, efficiency, low maintenance requirements and rapid return on investment, the FGDSS-N AES Mechanical Seal is an excellent choice for slurry pump applications.