Customer Challenge

A customer contacted our engineering team after noticing an intermittent mechanical seal noise on a high-viscosity sauce filling line.

The noise only occurred during specific operating conditions and was not accompanied by leakage or any obvious signs of seal damage. To better understand the issue, our engineers conducted an on-site inspection.

On-Site Assessment

During the inspection, we evaluated the pump operation, mechanical seal condition, product viscosity, and operating process.

No obvious mechanical failure or seal damage was found. Based on our on-site assessment, the noise was likely related to insufficient lubrication between the seal faces when handling a highly viscous product. Under certain operating conditions, temporary lubrication loss may result in friction noise.

Our Recommendation

Based on this specific application, we recommended the following:

• Continue monitoring the operating condition of the equipment.
• If the same noise occurs occasionally, apply a small amount of food-grade lubricant to the mechanical seal area. Where appropriate and permitted by the customer's food safety procedures, a suitable edible vegetable oil may also be considered as a temporary boundary lubricant.
• If the noise becomes more frequent, or is accompanied by leakage, excessive heat, or abnormal wear, the mechanical seal and operating conditions should be inspected further.

Engineering Insight

Mechanical seal noise does not always indicate seal failure.

In food processing applications, product viscosity, operating conditions, and lubrication characteristics can all influence seal performance. Identifying the root cause before replacing components or upgrading equipment helps reduce unnecessary maintenance costs and minimize production downtime.

Every application is different, and troubleshooting should always be based on the actual operating conditions rather than assumptions.

Need technical support for hygienic pumping applications?

TAYEE Pump specializes in hygienic rotary lobe pumps for the food, beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries. Our engineering team provides practical field support to help customers solve real production challenges.