Valero Refinery in St. Charles, Louisiana, was in need of a bearing isolator that could contain oil mist within the bearing housing of their Sulzer MBN ring section multistage high pressure pump for membrane feed. They needed to eliminate the stray mist issues they were having with previous labyrinth isolators that would escape through the leak path. Stray mist creates an oil slick covering surrounding the equipment and walkways, causing unsightly housekeeping and safety issues. Oil mist bearing lubrication systems are used extensively throughout this refinery, and this was a growing pain point for the maintenance team.
The refinery was introduced to Isomag magnetic face bearing isolators as the perfect solution to their stray oil mist problem. Isomag magnetic bearing isolators eliminate stray oil mist their liquid tight sealing faces. In addition to providing superior sealing and protection; Isomag bearing isolators offer:
A high level of MTBR – projected operating life of 100,000 hours at 12,000 sfm (60 mps)
Low operating temperature – does not increase the operating temperature of the bearings
Easy installation and removal – O-ring fit on the OD of the Isomag bearing isolator makes it easy to install and if necessary remove and reinstall.
Since the installation the customer has reported that the stray oil mist issue has been alleviated and their pumps in the unit have cooler bearing housings.
A brochure for Isomag bearing isolators for pumps can be found here. Also as a reminder, Isomag bearing isolators can be custom made to fit your machine. Contact our customer service team and we will help you find the ideal solution for your needs.
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