Thermosyphon Sealant Systems for In-Line Mixers

Summary

This video explains the basics of Thermosyphon sealant systems used with Silverson In-Line mixers. It covers the need for double mechanical shaft seals over single ones in cases where the product is sticky or abrasive. The Thermosyphon system recirculates sealant fluid, cooling and lubricating the seals by convection. The fluid, such as oil or glycerine, is pressurized and flows through the system to maintain seal integrity. The video provides guidelines for proper positioning and usage of these systems, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Contact for more information on selecting suitable sealing systems for your applications.

Takeaways

• 🔬 Thermosyphon sealant systems are explained for specific applications with Silverson In-Line mixers.
• 💧 Single mechanical shaft seals are suitable for product lubrication but can leak if the product is sticky or abrasive.
• 🔄 Double mechanical shaft seals use sealant fluid to prevent leaks by flushing a chamber between the seals at a higher pressure than the product.
• 🌡️ Sealant fluid must be compatible with the product and preferably non-flammable, often discharged if water is used.
• 🚰 Mains water can serve as sealant fluid if there is sufficient pressure, with flow restricted to pressurize the double seal chamber.
• 🛠️ Sealant fluid systems need to be regulated and monitored to maintain the correct pressure above the mixer outlet.
• 🛢️ Alternative sealant fluids like oil or glycerine may require a thermosyphon system for lubrication and cooling.
• 🔁 Thermosyphon systems recirculate sealant fluid from a chamber above the mixer, using convection to cool and lubricate the seals.
• ♻️ Heated sealant fluid rises back to the chamber, displacing cooler fluid that then circulates down to the mixer.
• 📏 The thermosyphon system should be positioned about 1 meter above and no more than 1 meter away from the In-Line mixer's seal chamber.
• ⚙️ Auxiliary recirculation pumps may be necessary if the thermosyphon system is positioned further than the recommended distance.

Q & A

What is the main function of a Thermosyphon sealant system?

The main function of a Thermosyphon sealant system is to lubricate and cool the shaft seals by convection in applications using a Silverson In-Line mixer.

Why would you use a double mechanical shaft seal instead of a single mechanical shaft seal?

A double mechanical shaft seal is used instead of a single mechanical shaft seal because it prevents damage and leakage when dealing with sticky or abrasive products by using sealant fluid to flush the chamber between the two seals at a higher pressure.

What are the requirements for a sealant fluid used in these systems?

The sealant fluid needs to be compatible with the product being mixed and preferably non-flammable.

What is the usual process for using water as a sealant fluid?

When using water as a sealant fluid, it is normally discharged to the drain, and mains water can be used if there is sufficient pressure.

How is pressure achieved in the double seal chamber?

Pressure in the double seal chamber is achieved by restricting the flow of sealant fluid on the outlet side of the chamber to pressurize it to 1 bar (15 psi) above the maximum mixer outlet pressure.

When is a Thermosyphon system required instead of using mains water?

A Thermosyphon system is required when another liquid such as oil or glycerine needs to be used as the sealant fluid.

How does the Thermosyphon system maintain cooling and lubrication of the shaft seals?

The Thermosyphon system maintains cooling and lubrication by recirculating the sealant fluid through convection. As the fluid heats up due to friction, it rises back to the chamber, displacing the cooler fluid which then flows down to the mixer.

What is the typical placement of the Thermosyphon sealant system relative to the In-Line mixer?

The Thermosyphon sealant system should be positioned approximately 1 metre above the seal chamber of the In-Line mixer and no more than 1 metre away on the horizontal.

What might be required if the Thermosyphon sealant system is positioned further than the recommended distance?

If the Thermosyphon sealant system is positioned further than the recommended distance, an auxiliary recirculation pump might be required.

How can someone get more information or guidance about selecting sealing systems for their application?

For more information or guidance about selecting sealing systems for their application, they should contact the provider or manufacturer.