Case Studies
Using Chesterton 1724 to Improve Equipment Reliability Where Retightening is Not Possible
Challenge
Catalyst leakage occurred at the vacuum dryer shaft seal in a chemical plant, with frequent gland packing retightening required. As adjustments cannot be made during operation, leakage occurred repeatedly.
Cause
Loss of lubricant caused packing volume reduction, and the use of nine packing rings resulted in uneven compression.
Goal
Reduce retightening frequency and eliminate leakage to ensure stable operation.
The conventional packing hardened over time, resulting in a loss of elasticity.
Solution
Chesterton #1724 and #1730SC were recommended. These packings offer minimal volume change, require less retightening, accommodate shaft deflection, and are white in colour.
For the end rings, Chesterton 1724 was selected to avoid any impact on the process fluid.
A bushing was installed on the gland follower side to reduce the total number of packing rings to five, ensuring uniform compression across the packing set. This solution aims to achieve stable and reliable operation.
Seal box arrangement.
Results
Before Improvement
Maintenance frequency: once every 3 months Maintenance cost: ¥35,000 per service (labour & packing)
After Improvement
Maintenance frequency: once every 17 months Maintenance cost: ¥190,000 per service (labour & packing)
Performance
Payback period: 17 months
MTBR: 560% increase
As a result, production downtime for retightening and leakage losses were significantly reduced, enabling safer and more stable operation.
Comparison between the test-installed 1730SC and the conventional packing.
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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APAC0116. Issued 12/2025
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.