Case Study
Sensor Identifies Cause of Costly Mechanical Seal Failure
This case study describes how a chemical plant resolved persistent mechanical seal failures on a nitric acid transfer pump using wireless equipment monitoring technology. The pump experienced seal failures almost monthly, despite apparently normal operation and correct installation practices. By deploying Bluetooth-enabled monitoring sensors to track vibration, temperature, and pressure, engineers identified negative seal chamber pressure conditions causing dry-running damage. A system audit revealed improper flow conditions, which were corrected by adjusting a valve. The changes extended projected mean time between repairs from 1.2 months to more than 24 months while significantly reducing maintenance costs and operational disruptions.
