Synthesis Gas Compressor

Gulf Coast Bearing & Seal (GCBS) Extends Seal Life From Weeks to Years With Thermoplastic Solution

Some synthesis gas compressors can experience premature seal failures due to an when suction separators are undersized for capacity, leading to excessive gas velocities. This can lead to water droplets bypassing the separators that impinge on critical aluminum shaft seal labyrinths, including those protecting dry gas seals and the impeller eye. As a result, the original aluminum seals are at risk of severe corrosion, lasting only weeks.

Gulf Coast Bearing and Seal (GCBS) addresses this issue by replacing aluminum seals with seals made of PEEK, a high-performance thermoplastic. These new seals feature reduced clearances and an updated design that improves upon OEM metallic specifications. The PEEK material provides resilience during transient conditions and hard rubs, maintaining shape under stress, and resists corrosion.

Switching to PEEK seals significantly extends the lifespan of compressor components. Compressors with PEEK seals can operate for more than 3 years without further seal corrosion. Additional benefits include easier installation, fewer breakages, longer machine runtimes, and reduced maintenance costs.