Why seal-face pairing matters
Mechanical seal performance depends on the pair of sliding faces, lubrication film, flatness, surface finish, spring loading, pressure, speed, heat removal and process fluid. Material choice must be evaluated as a pair.
Carbon graphite faces
Carbon graphite is widely considered for low-friction sealing and can be impregnated to modify permeability and properties. It is commonly paired with a harder counterface.
Silicon carbide faces
Silicon carbide offers high hardness, wear resistance and chemical stability in many process applications. Sintered and reaction-bonded families have different property profiles.
Tungsten carbide faces
Cemented tungsten carbide offers very high wear resistance and compressive capability. Binder choice influences corrosion and toughness, so the process medium is important.
Data needed for selection
Provide fluid composition, solids content, temperature, pressure, speed, diameter, lubrication state, expected leakage, startup conditions and existing failure evidence.
Need an application-specific review?
Send your drawing and duty conditions. Dmaic Carbon can review material and machining feasibility for custom components.