Testing And Field Performance Of A High Duty NGL Pipeline Seal
Abstract
An improved multiple seal design was developed for a critical high performance pipeline pumping application with a difficult range of conditions. The pumps are four stage construction, with a 700 hp electric motor and variable speed gear box driven with a range from 2000 to 5000 rpm. The mechanical seal has a nominal balance diameter of 6.5 in, and is a dual seal design with a buffer fluid. The sealed product is a mixture of ethane, propane, butane, and some heavier liquids, and typically ranges from 28 to 37 percent ethane concentration with a mixture of other hydrocarbons and a temperature up to 115 degrees F. The combination of conditions makes this a demanding sealing application. Information is presented on the seal design, development, and test data on a 40 percent ethane NGL mix. The improved seal design has completed over one year service life with very low leakage rates. Field data over the first year of operation is included.
Description
Lecturepg. 89
Subject
Pumping machineryCollections
Citation
Lavelle, Kenneth E.; Woods, William J. (1995). Testing And Field Performance Of A High Duty NGL Pipeline Seal. Turbomachinery Laboratories, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /164179.