Case Studies
Superior Sealing Technology Adds Efficiency to Refurbished Hydro Turbine
Challenge
Background
The original 89MW Francis hydro turbine was installed in 1987 at the end of a 23-mile water tunnel that delivers water across the Continental Divide. In 2020, the unit was completely rehabilitated. The customer was not happy with how much leakage was occurring in the original packing box design.
Original packing box was leaking.
Solution
Product
The Chesterton® 442 Split Mechanical Seal provided the right solution. 442 seals are designed to seal without external leakage, reduce the need of fine filtration, and extend seal life and reliability. Chesterton 14K Restrictor Bushings were used to reduce flush requirements and to help prevent suspended abrasive particles from entering the stuffing box area.
The 442 Split Seal was adapted to fit the stuffing box.
Results
Reduced Leakage
The installation of the adapter plate, 14K bushings, and 442 seal took only four hours.
Date Installed: August 2021
The customer tested the updated seal configuration in December 2021 and was happy with the comparatively extremely low leakage versus the original design. Due to low water supply, the unit did not begin running at full capacity until April 2022 and has been in operation since.
Installed equipment is running effectively
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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EN602157. Issued 04/2025
Technical data reflects results of laboratory tests and is intended to indicate general characteristics only. A.W. Chesterton Company disclaims all warranties expressed or implied, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Liability, if any, is limited to product replacement only. Any images contained herein are for general illustrative or aesthetic purposes only and are not intended to convey any instructional, safety, handling, or usage information or advice respecting any product or equipment. Please refer to relevant Safety Data Sheets, Product Data Sheets, and/or Product Labels for safe use, storage, handling, and disposal of products, or consult with your local Chesterton sales representative.