Case Studies
Pulp Agitator MTBF Extended to 11 Months
Challenge
Customer’s previous repair indicated Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) was 1–8 weeks. In addition, the seals were flush only, with no drainage, which diluted the pulp.
Solution
A Chesterton specialist presented a solution to potentially extend MTBR to up to a year. The customer was doubtful but when they learned that the cost for our products, including a machined custom gland, (work excluded) was $4,100 (€3,500) they decided to proceed. The customer selected their worst case scenario agitator for the trial.
The Chesterton solution was to make a split gland to house a R22K ring to work as a wiper, and let the gland be sealed with packing and tightened to the box. The bushing made of AWC640 was machined with grooves and inlets for water. Two bushings were isolated by two R22K rings turned face to face.
Results
Chesterton’s rebuild and install commenced January 2025 and is still running without any failures as of November 2025. This has extended MTBF to 11 months and still counting.
Return on Investment
The first agitator rebuilt has saved the customer $60,000 (€51,000) over 11 months. Six changes at $4,100 (€3,500) labor plus $6,000 (€5,150) cost of previous seals was saved each time. Another benefit is that all problems with diluted pulp are also eliminated with this solution. The concentration of the pulp stays the same.
$=USD (€ = Euro)
About Us
Chesterton® is a world leader in helping process industry companies and manufacturers improve the reliability and efficiency of their rotating, stationary, and fluid power equipment platforms. We are known across a wide range of industries for our award-winning pump and valve sealing solutions, applications expertise, equipment maintenance and wear-prevention products, and knowledgeable hands-on local service. Chesterton product range includes mechanical seals, packing and gaskets, industrial lubricants and coatings.
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