A sealant being used on an Sulzer APP3 pump by a Spanish biofuel company was leaking each time the pump was stopped.
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By Pedro Toro
What was the situation you were asked to deal with?
This was an existing customer who was faced with the problem of sealant leaking from a Sulzer APP/APT pump. The problem was made worse by the fact that the sealant was diluted sodium hydroxide (NaOH). This is highly corrosive, even in diluted form. It was damaging the base of the pump, but more than that, it was a danger to the company’s employees. Anybody coming into contact with it was at risk of chemical burns.
How did AESSEAL solve the problem?
We dismantled the pump and brought it to our workshop, where we fitted it with a CURC mechanical seal conversion. This required us to come up with a special design specifically for this application, something which our competitors were unwilling, or unable, to do.
Does AESSEAL offer an after-sales service to the customer, such as a regular inspection or maintenance service?
That is an important part of the overall service. We provided support for the installation and start-up, and we made regular visits to the plant to make sure that the pump was operating efficiently, and to solve any problems that may have arisen in the early stages. We still keep in regular contact with the company, so that they know that we are ready to help them in any way we can.
Is the customer satisfied with the way the pump has been working since the installation?
Absolutely. Six years later, our design is still working perfectly, and they are delighted with the outcome. I think they have already forgotten that they ever had any leakage issues.
Has the success of this installation had longer-term benefits?
Yes, we are now the company’s preferred seal supplier, and we have installed CURC seals not only on all the pumps at this location, but also at other plants throughout Spain. Our success in solving the problem here and the service we provided to the customer has given us a very good reputation within the industry, and it has enabled us to sell our products to companies elsewhere in the country.
