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Lantern Ring Seals
A Lantern Ring is a precision-engineered, perforated hollow ring placed within a stuffing box, typically between the packing rings of a pump or other rotating equipment. It plays a vital role in improving seal performance, extending equipment life, and maintaining efficient system operation.
Function & Purpose
The primary purpose of a lantern ring is to provide a controlled channel for introducing fluid—such as clean water, steam, air, or inert gas—into the stuffing box. This flush fluid is directed through the lantern ring’s perforations to cool, lubricate, and clean the packing material surrounding the shaft.
Key Benefits
By doing so, the lantern ring:
- Reduces Friction and Heat generated by the rotating shaft.
- Flushes Away Contaminants and Abrasive Particles before they can damage the packing or shaft surface.
- Maintains Proper Lubrication to extend the lifespan of packing rings.
- Protects Against Shaft Scoring or Corrosion by providing a fluid barrier.
- Helps Maintain Sealing Pressure and improves overall sealing performance.
Typical Installation
Lantern rings are generally positioned between the middle packing rings—for example, between the third and fourth ring—in a multi-ring packing arrangement. This strategic placement ensures that the flush fluid reaches the heart of the stuffing box where it’s needed most.
Common Applications
Lantern rings are widely used in:
- Centrifugal Pumps
- Slurry and Chemical Pumps
- Agitators and Mixers
- Valves and Other Rotary Equipment
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Systems
- Mining, Pulp & Paper, Power Generation, and Marine Industries
Material Options
Lantern rings are available in a range of materials to meet varying service conditions:
- Brass or Bronze: Common for general industrial and water service applications.
- Stainless Steel: High strength and corrosion resistance for aggressive or sanitary environments.
- PTFE (Teflon®): Excellent chemical resistance and non-stick properties.
- Glass-Filled Nylon or Other Thermoplastics: Lightweight, economical options for non-corrosive environments.
Benefits of Using Lantern Rings
- Protects shaft sleeves and packing from excessive wear
- Reduces maintenance frequency and downtime
- Enhances system cleanliness and reliability
- Easily integrated into existing packing arrangements
- Suitable for both new equipment and retrofits