Fluiten: Petrochemical mechanical seals, regulatory compliance and reliability
The petrochemical industry is responsible for the production of hydrocarbon-derived products like rubbers and plastics, requiring highly reliable technologies for handling often hazardous fluids. Fluiten distinguishes itself in this industry with mechanical seals that meet the stringent API 682 standards essential for ensuring reliable and safe operations. Fluiten leads in the design and manufacture of the seals used on polymerizers and agitators for processing rubbers, additives, and various plastics.
The distinctive characteristics of the petrochemical industry
Managing hydrocarbons and transforming them into finished products pose specific challenges:
- Handling toxic and flammable fluids: Seals need to be extremely robust and reliable to mitigate the risk of atmospheric emissions. The sealing components must be designed to withstand mechanical stresses, thermal expansion, high operating pressures, and variable viscosities.
- Regulation and compliance: Strict adherence to API 682 standards is essential to comply with international regulations and enhance operational safety.
Fluiten’s mechanical seals are designed to endure the harsh conditions typical in the petrochemical industry:
- High strength: Standard seals are capable of withstanding pressures of up to 40 bar and temperatures exceeding 350°C; specially engineered seals can handle pressures of up to 150 bar.
- Versatility: They are suitable for various kinds of machinery, including centrifugal pumps and compressors, delivering optimal performance even at high rotational speeds (of up to 20 metres per second).
Fluiten seals
- Hydraulically balanced design: Reduces the load on the seal face, thereby minimizing heat generation and enabling the handling of higher pressures.
- Special materials selected for high temperatures and pressures; antimony-impregnated carbon may be used for better thermal conductivity and strength.
