by Hydraulic Institute

Q. What is a centrifugal seal in rotodynamic centrifugal pumps?

A. A centrifugal seal is a dynamic seal that only operates when the pump shaft is rotating and has no
seal effect when the shaft is stationary. It consists of an expeller or set of expellers located in a separate
chamber behind the impeller, which is typically fitted with expelling vanes on the back shroud.

When the pump is running, the centrifugal seal generates pressure Pe to equalize the pressure Pb, as
shown in Figure 12.3.8.3.6, so that the pump operates without leakage.

Figure 12.3.8.3.6. Centrifugal (dynamic) seal with "dry-type" packing

A centrifugal (dynamic) seal needs to be combined with a backup or static seal to prevent leakage when
the pump is not running. The general requirements for the backup-sealing device are that it must seal
statically when the pump is shut down, and it must run dry during pump operation. This can be
accomplished by dry-type packing, multiple lip seals, other proprietary devices or mechanical seals with
either dry run capabilities or fitted with a separate flush.

Advertisement

There is a maximum allowable suction pressure Ps above which, depending on speed of rotation, a
centrifugal seal will not operate properly. For this reason, centrifugal seals are not effective on the
second or higher stages of multiple-pump installations, where the pumps are arranged to have the full
discharge of the preceding stage applied to the suction of the following stage.

If the pumps are installed at specified intervals and elevations spread out along a slurry transport line,
then it is possible to use centrifugal seals on all stages. The arrangement should be such that the suction
pressures on each stage are approximately equal and do not exceed 10 to 20 percent of the discharge
pressure. An analysis should be made of the centrifugal seal performance, based on actual head, flow
and suction pressure, so that proper operation is ensured.

Additional information about centrifugal (dynamic) seals is available in ANSI/HI 12.1-12.6

Rotodynamic (Centrifugal) Slurry Pumps for Nomenclature, Definitions, Applications, and Operation.