Why Are Mechanical Seal Support Systems Important?

Mechanical seals play an important role in industrial processes. They prevent fluid leakage and maintain system integrity in pumps and rotating equipment. However, these seals are susceptible to overheating, abrasion, and dry running, especially in high-demand environments. Excessive heat can degrade seals, leading to failure and unplanned maintenance, while excessively cold fluid can increase viscosity and reduce efficiency.

Mechanical seal support systems mitigate these risks by controlling cooling, lubrication, and regulating temperature. These systems ensure that seals operate within an optimal temperature range, reducing wear and extending their lifespan. Without proper temperature management, mechanical seals that rely on cooling water may waste thousands of gallons annually, leading to higher operational costs and increased environmental impact.

A well-designed mechanical seal support system helps:

  • Maintain continuous and reliable operation
  • Minimize system breakdowns from overheating or dry-running
  • Ensure proper lubrication for optimal seal performance
  • Prevent excessive wear leading to costly failures
  • Improve overall equipment efficiency and longevity

By proactively managing the temperature of seal cooling water, facilities can optimize water consumption, eliminate unnecessary waste, and reduce maintenance-related expenses.

Typical Mechanical Seal Applications

Mechanical seals are used in industrial industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and chemical processing, which rely on pumps, mixers, and reactors to handle various substances. Proper thermal management is crucial in these applications to ensure smooth operations, prevent contamination, and comply with strict industry regulations.

For example, pumps transport liquids such as syrups and soda in food and beverage processing, often requiring mixers and agitators to maintain consistency. Without proper mechanical seal temperature control, these processes can suffer from inefficiencies, increased maintenance, and potential product contamination. Similarly, in pharmaceutical production, maintaining precise thermal conditions within processing equipment is essential to uphold sterility and product integrity.

By incorporating a seal support system, facilities can enhance equipment performance, reduce downtime, lower maintenance costs, and ensure regulatory compliance across various industries.

The Benefits of Self-Actuating Seal Support Valves

One effective solution for protecting pump seals is ThermOmegaTech’s EcoFlow® Mechanical Seal Support Valve.

mechanical seal support

Installed on the seal’s water outlet, this valve automatically regulates a constant water outlet temperature, ensuring that it remains within the ideal operating range.

Unlike manually adjusted or electronically controlled systems, self-actuating valves operate independently, responding in real time to temperature fluctuations.

The EcoFlow® valve monitors water temperature and automatically adjusts the water required, preventing overheating and seal failure. Since it operates thermostatically, there is no need for external power or continuous human oversight, reducing operational errors such as manually opening or closing water valves.

Implementing a thermal management valve offers several advantages:

  • Consistent Seal Support – Maintains a steady water outlet temperature to protect seals from thermal damage.
  • EcoFlowWater Conservation – Reduces unnecessary water use, lowering operational costs.
  • Reliable Performance – Operates thermostatically without external power, making it ideal for demanding industrial applications.

Boost Efficiency and Reduce Water Consumption

Reducing seal water consumption lowers water usage, enhancing system reliability and decreasing maintenance expenses.

The self-operating EcoFlow® valve protects seals by using water only when necessary. This water-conserving seal support system reduces operating costs, making it a cost-effective solution for protecting mechanical seals and saving significant amounts of water.

Optimizing Water Usage in Industrial Processing with EcoFlow®

EcoFlow sugar refinery case studyEfficient cooling water management is a critical concern for industrial processing facilities, particularly in the food and beverage sector, where water usage directly impacts operational costs and sustainability goals.

A major U.S. sugar producer faced excessive water consumption due to inefficient seal water flow in their processing pumps, leading to high operational expenses and water waste.

By implementing ThermOmegaTech’s EcoFlow® Mechanical Seal Support Valve, they achieved a 50% reduction in seal water usage, leading to:

  • Lower operational costs
  • Improved sustainability metrics
  • Reduced maintenance requirements

The success of this project demonstrates how innovative and consistent thermostatic solutions like EcoFlow® can drive productivity, lower operational costs, promote water conservation, and support sustainability initiatives.

As industries continue to seek ways to optimize resource consumption, EcoFlow® provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for mechanical seal water management.

Conserve Water Usage & Lower Costs!

Reduce water consumption, lower costs, and improve efficiency with ThermOmegaTech’s EcoFlow®, our mechanical seal thermal management valve. Our advanced thermostatic valves ensure precise temperature control, protecting equipment while conserving resources.

Discover how our forward-thinking water conserving seal support system can enhance your operations—Learn More Now!

Introducing ThermOmegaTech’s Thermal Bypass Valve with Pressure Relief 

ThermOmegaTech®, the leading manufacturer of thermostatically controlled valves and actuators, is excited to introduce a brand-new product, the Thermal Bypass Valve with Pressure Relief (TBV-PR).Thermal Bypass Valve with Pressure Relief

The TBV-PR integrates temperature control and pressure relief into one valve.

It is engineered to safeguard equipment from damage caused by excessive pressure while maintaining optimal operating temperatures.

Integrating pressure relief override into a thermostatic valve, the TBV-PR delivers unmatched efficiency and reliability using ThermOmegaTech’s thermal actuator technology.

The thermal actuator controls flow throughout the system based on temperature changes, while the pressure relief safety feature protects the system from excessive pressure buildup.

When pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, the valve automatically opens, sending flow through the bypass to restore safe operating conditions.

“We are excited to introduce the TBV-PR to the market,” said Tim McCollum, OEM Sales Manager at ThermOmegaTech. “Driven by customer feedback, this new valve combines temperature control with built-in pressure relief to protect your equipment. This innovative product is a testament to our commitment to providing solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

The TBV-PR is designed for seamless integration into a 4-way manifold to control flow based on fluid temperature. The valve will direct cooler fluid through the bypass and hotter fluid through the system’s heat exchanger/cooler. Its compact design and durable construction make it ideal for a wide range of applications.

Get more information on this innovative new product from ThermOmegaTech® here.

 

About ThermOmegaTech®:
For 40 years, ThermOmegaTech® has been a leader in designing and manufacturing self-actuated thermostatic valves and actuators. Founded in 1983, ThermOmegaTech® is a privately held organization with 40,000 square feet of manufacturing and office facility near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The company provides innovative thermostatic solutions for various applications, including freeze protection, scald protection, mixing & diverting, steam traps, thermal bypass, tepid water delivery, washdown, balancing, drain tempering, and many other applications where temperature control is critical. Key industries it serves include railroad, commercial plumbing, aerospace, defense, and industrial.

ThermOmegaTech® offers an array of standard valves and specializes in manufacturing highly engineered custom designs to meet your project’s needs. The engineering, manufacturing, assembly, testing, inspection, sales, and customer service departments are all located in one facility for maximum efficiency and effective communication. ThermOmegaTech® has been ISO 9001-certified for over two decades and achieved AS9100D certification in 2019.

For more information, please get in touch with ThermOmegaTech here.
ThermOmegaTech®, Inc.
353 Ivyland Road, Warminster, PA 18974

Phone: 877-379-8258
Website: www.ThermOmegaTech.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/thermomegatech
Twitter: @thermomegatech

What is a Thermal Relief Valve?

In various industrial applications, maintaining the right temperature is crucial to ensuring the safety and efficiency of equipment. A thermal relief valve is one essential component in achieving this.

Let’s explore how thermostatic thermal relief valves can improve your system’s performance and lifespan, increase efficiency, and prevent damage.

Understanding Thermal Relief Valves

A thermal relief valve is a safety device designed to release overheated water from systems to prevent seal degradation and other damages caused by excessive temperature. When the fluid in a closed system heats up beyond a safe level, the valve opens to allow the overheated water to drain and cooler fluid to enter the system from the reservoir.

Thermal Relief Valve Function: The primary function of a thermal relief valve is to maintain safe temperature levels, preventing potential damage or catastrophic failure. This is particularly important in systems where fluid is prone to overheating, such as water in booster and fire pumps.

The choice of thermal relief valve depends on the application, operating conditions, temperature settings, and regulatory requirements. The value is undeniable. The cost of a thermal relief valve is minimal compared to the damage caused by overheating—from component replacement to labor for repairs to the cost of interrupted operations.

ThermOmegaTech offers two industrial thermal relief valve models. The ECONOHAT/RA is designed to protect booster pumps in low to medium pressure systems by releasing excessively heated water. For higher pressure applications, such as fire pumps, the HAT/RA-HP model provides the same thermal protection.

Thermal Relief Valve Design

The construction and components of a typical thermal relief valve can vary depending on its specific application and manufacturer. It typically consists of the following components:

Body:  Made from durable materials such as stainless steel or brass, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion.ECONOHATRA_SS Thermal Relief Valve

Thermostatic Element: The thermostatic element, such as a thermal wax actuator, is designed to open the valve at a specific temperature, allowing overheated water to escape.

Outlet: The outlet directs the relieved water to a safe location, preventing personnel harm or equipment damage.

These valves are self-actuating, modulating open and closed based on fluid temperature alone and unaffected by pressure variations. ThermOmegaTech’s stainless steel thermal relief valves are also NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 & 372 Certified.

Uses and Applications of Thermal Relief Valves

Using thermal relief valves is a safety measure that prevents damage and ensures the reliability of various industrial processes and equipment. Seals are the most susceptible component, but the entire system is at risk if temperatures rise to extreme levels. Some industries that utilize these valves are chemical processing, oil and gas, water treatment and supply, manufacturing, and fire protection systems.

Examples of Equipment and Systems

Booster Pumps: Used in domestic water supply systems to maintain consistent water pressure throughout a building. Because they are one of the first pieces of equipment installed during the construction of a new building, a booster pump can operate at a far lower capacity than its design point. This causes heat build-up while idling. A thermal relief valve like the ECONOHAT/RA senses that temperature spike, releases hot water, and spares critical components from the dangers of excessive heat.

Fire Pumps: Used on fire trucks to provide a steady flow of high-pressure water from various sources, such as hydrants, tanks, or natural water bodies. Overheating can occur when the pump operates for extended periods without sufficient water flow. Our HAT/RA-HP valve ensures the pumps do not overheat during use, which is crucial for effective firefighting operations.

How these Valves Operate

ThermOmegaTech’s thermal relief valves are installed on the pump casing and configured with a customer-selected open temperature to provide thermal protection. When the water in the pump starts rising to temperatures higher than specified, the thermal actuator within the valve modulates open, discharging the hot water. Cooler water from the water supply or tank then replaces the discharged water, lowering the temperature inside the pump.

Subsequently, the valve modulates closed once the temperature returns to acceptable levels. This modulating action maintains a relatively constant fluid temperature even as operating conditions vary. The discharged water can be collected, reused, or repurposed to reduce waste.

Conclusion

Thermal relief valves play a vital role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of various industrial systems. By preventing temperature build-up, these valves protect equipment, ensure uninterrupted operation, and increase the lifespan of your systems. The ECONOHAT/RA and HAT/RA-HP valves exemplify the reliability and precision needed for these critical applications.

Visit our pump thermal relief page for more information on our thermal relief valves and other innovative solutions. Have questions? Contact us today!

Why is Tepid Water Important for Emergency Showers? 

Emergency showers, facewash stations, and eyewash stations are essential for prompt decontamination in workplaces prone to chemical spills or exposure to hazardous materials.

These stations, strategically located in areas like power plants, industrial facilities, and labs, allow individuals to rinse off harmful substances in case of emergencies.

The Importance of Tepid Water in Emergencies

The importance of tepid water -safety shower in use

Tepid showers are critical in protecting personnel and complying with regulatory requirements. If a person’s body and eyes are exposed to a corrosive and dangerous substance at work, they need instant access to a water supply to saturate their bodies and flush their eyes.

A consistent flow of tepid water from emergency showers and eyewash stations prevents thermal shock or burns and ensures effective flushing without discomfort.

Many facilities have emergency fixtures, including laboratories, chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, manufacturing plants, agriculture and mining facilities, oil refineries, and educational facilities.

Let’s explore the importance of using tepid water in emergency showers and how it affects workplace safety.

What is Tepid Water?

Tepid degree water is defined as having a temperature between 60-100ºF (15.6-37.8ºC). This temperature range is considered suitable for providing comfort and preventing further injury when using an emergency shower, facewash, or eyewash station after bodily exposure to hazardous materials.

The ANSI Z358.1-2014 standard is a guideline for selecting, installing, operating, and maintaining safety showers, facewash stations, and eyewash stations.

The standard states where emergency fixtures need to be located, the required spray patterns, minimum flow rates, water temperature requirements, and the time the water needs to be supplied.

Why Do Emergency Showers Need Tepid Water? 

Having tepid water readily available from emergency showers is essential to operator safety. Temperatures too high could burn the employee or open their pores, allowing dangerous substances to sink into their skin. Too cold water can lead to hypothermia or shock. Here’s why tepid showers are crucial:

Effective Decontamination: Tepid water is optimal for flushing chemicals or contaminants from the eyes, face, and body in case of chemical spills, splashes, or exposure. It helps dilute and remove hazardous substances more effectively than water that is too hot or too cold, aiding in rapidly removing contaminants to minimize potential injuries.

Compliance with Regulations: Many safety regulations and standards, such as ANSI/ISEA Z358.1, require tepid water in emergency eyewash and safety shower systems. Compliance with these regulations ensures facilities provide appropriate emergency response measures to protect workers’ health and safety.

Extended Flushing Duration: Tepid water encourages longer flushing durations, as individuals are more likely to endure the discomfort of flushing contaminants from their eyes or skin with water that is neither too hot nor too cold. Longer flushing times enhance the effectiveness of decontamination and reduce the risk of injury. The tepid water temperature ensures the injured person can endure the recommended 15 minutes of continuous flushing.

Prevention of Further Injury: In cases of chemical exposure, using tepid water for decontamination helps to prevent thermal shock, which can exacerbate injuries and increase tissue damage. Tepid water promotes gentle yet thorough flushing to minimize the risk of further injury to affected individuals.

Types of Tepid Water Systems

Various tepid water systems for safety showers, facewash, and eyewash stations are available. These include mixing valves for hot and cold-water supply lines, turnkey systems with pre-packaged, self-contained heating and mixing valves, instantaneous electric heaters, and steam-fired heaters.

ThermOmegaTech’s Therm-O-Mix® steam-fired tepid water delivery system uses existing plant steam and water to supply face/eyewash stations and safety showers with tepid water.

The unit functions 100% mechanically, needing no external power source, making it ideal for explosive-proof environments. It’s self-purging! No elaborate drainage or expensive recirculation systems are required.

If your facility does not have a steam supply, ThermOmegaTech also offers the heavy-duty ESS Emergency Safety Shower Water Heater, bundled with the Therm-O-Mix Station/Water-Water Mixing Valve (WWM).

ESS water heater

This heavy-duty electric water heater is designed to provide a safe and reliable tepid water supply. It is constructed of a carbon steel tank and internally lined with 1/2″ thick Hydrastone cement to ensure tank longevity when operating at elevated temperatures.

The tank is also fully insulated with 3″ thick polyurethane foam. Unlike instantaneous heaters, the ESS is unaffected by the loss of electric power in its ability to provide tepid water thanks to the thermostatic Therm-O-Mix mixing valve.

Implementing a system that automatically delivers tepid water ensures employees are safely drenched. This eliminates the risks of scalding or hypothermia during emergencies. This enhancement bolsters safety and provides immediate relief, fostering a secure working environment.

ThermOmegaTech Has Your Solution for Reliable Tepid Water Delivery

ThermOmegaTech® is a leading provider of temperature control solutions designed to meet stringent safety standards for emergency showers and eyewash stations. Our thermostatic tepid water delivery systems ensure your facility is prepared for emergencies while prioritizing the safety and well-being of personnel in industrial and commercial settings.

ThermOmegaTech’s tepid water delivery systems offer peace of mind. They enable organizations to proactively mitigate hazards and protect their most valuable asset—their people.

Contact ThermOmegaTech today to discuss your facility’s tepid water needs.