The first question is when the leak starts. Is it present before the shaft turns, only while the pump runs, or after the pump gets hot? Those are different clues.
What should I check when a new mechanical seal leaks?
First record when the leak starts. Before the shaft turns, on the first run and after the pump gets hot are different clues. Also record where the liquid emerges. A leak at the gland or sleeve is not automatically a leak between the seal faces.
Inspection must be carried out by qualified personnel after the equipment has been made safe under your site procedure. Check the selected seal and setting against the manufacturer's instructions. Check the shaft or sleeve, gland alignment, shaft movement and any required flush or barrier supply.
If leakage is unexpected or unacceptable, stop and make the equipment safe under your site procedure. Do not assume running it longer will correct the problem. Keep the failed parts and photographs. Changing the seal without finding the cause can give you the same failure again.
What does the timing tell us?
If it leaks while stationary, record where the liquid emerges. Check the gland gasket, sleeve and secondary seals against the selected design and installation record. Do not assume the new seal was defective.
If leakage begins when the shaft turns, check the seal setting, alignment, shaft movement and required seal support against the equipment and seal instructions. Wet seals without adequate liquid lubrication can overheat and suffer face damage.
If leakage begins as temperature rises, record the operating conditions at the seal and any changes in flush or cooling supply. Use that information with the selected seal's limits. Timing is a clue, not proof of a particular cause.
What information helps identify the cause?
Tell us whether leakage was present before rotation, started immediately or appeared as temperature rose. Send the pump and seal references, fluid, operating conditions, installation record and photographs of the leak location and failed parts.
Acumen helps check the seal specification and supplies replacement seals. We do not fit seals. Installation must follow the equipment and seal manufacturer's instructions and your site's procedures.
Related: Seal Troubleshooting Guide and Why does the same mechanical seal keep failing on my pump?.