The packed gland seal for pump applications is now rarely fitted to new pumps.
This is due to it's high maintenance requirements.
When fitted it is mostly used in conjunction with long coupled bed plate mounted pumps.
Specific operating conditions require distinctly different types of packed gland seals.
They require regular checks and maintenance adjustments.
Proper lubrication of the gland packing requires a certain leakage rate.
Special manufacturers recommendation's are to be observed individually. Service life expectancy is between 1 and 2 years, this can sometimes extend to several years on favourable conditions.
Extremely bad fluid conditions (sediments, additives, overheating) can however drastically cut short their service life.
Packed glands should preferably be used in conjunction with shaft sleeves in order to avoid damage to the shaft by aggressive fluids or due to improper treatment of the packed gland.