
Centrifugal pump design and construction 43
The disadvantages of labyrinths include a higher initial cost than lip seals and the
existence of an open path to the atmosphere, which can enable contamination of the
lubricant by atmospheric condensate as the housing chamber ‘breathes’ during
temperature fluctuations in humid environments. Also, they do not work as well in a
static mode as in a dynamic, rotating mode.
The temperature limits of labyrinths are determined by the elastomer driving the rotor
and holding the stator in place, the same as for the lip seal.
Magnetic seals
Magnetic seals use a two-piece end face mechanical seal with optica ...