To keep mechanical seal systems functioning as long as possible, we recommend using standardized seal piping plans. Detailed API seal piping plans ensure minimal seal face wear by maintaining the optimal seal chamber environment.
Since they were first formulated, seal piping plans have been maintained and remodeled by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Current plans are based on API 682 and are sorted numerically. In some cases, designated letters are also used to differentiate between plans.
Filter Plan Types
API Plan 23
Forced circulation from the seal chamber through a cooler and back to the seal chamber.
API Plan 31
Recirculation from pump discharge through a cyclone separator, delivering clean fluid to the seal chamber and solids to pump suction.
API Plan 41
Recirculation from pump discharge through a cyclone separator delivering clean fluid to a cooler and then to the seal chamber. Solids are delivered to pump suction.
API Plan 51
External reservoir providing a dead-ended fluid blanket to the quench connection.
API Plan 52
External buffer liquid reservoir supplying clean fluid to the outboard seal faces.
API Plan 53A
Pressurized external barrier liquid reservoir supplying clean fluid to the inboard and outboard seal faces.
API Plan 53B
External barrier liquid system pressurized by a bladder accumulator supplying clean fluid to the inboard and outboard seal faces.
API Plan 53C
External barrier liquid system pressurized by a piston accumulator supplying clean fluid to the inboard and outboard seal faces.
