What Is Gland Packing in Pumps?

Gland packing utilises a braided rope-like material that is packed around the shaft of the pump. This fills the space between and prevents fluid loss from around the shaft.

What is gland packing?

The gland packing is a contact-type sealing element. Compared with other types of shaft seals, they are adjustable and suitable for use with pressures and circumferential speeds higher than those radial shaft seal rings are used for (see also Shaft seal).

What is difference between gland packing and mechanical seal?

When considering gland packing vs mechanical seal solutions, mechanical seals are the best for minimizing sleeve damage. Packing seals are removed and replaced much more often than mechanical seals, which causes considerable wear and tear to the pumps as they are disassembled and reassembled.