Causes of Seal Failure

Determining and addressing the causes

of seal failures can significantly

extend seal life and save money.

According to The Practical Handbook

of Machinery Lubrication, the following

are many common causes of seal

failure:

1. Misalignment of components

2. Poor bearing lubrication

3. Vibration of rotating components

4. Contaminated fluid (water, acids or

particulate)

5. Twisting condition due to “soft foot”

at mounting pads

6. Poor component base plate grouting

or mounting

7. Rotor imbalance or shaft whip

8. Inadequate flushing procedures during

commissioning or start-up after

repairs

9. Poor or careless seal or bearing

installation

10. Piping strains due to misalignment

or temperature variations

11. Looseness of bolts and brackets

12. Addition of incompatible fluid

13. An increase or dramatic change in

temperature

14. Unclean operating conditions

(causing dirt ingression)

15. A change in filtration practices

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