For decades, Flexaseal split cartridge mechanical seals have played a critical role in reducing downtime where pump disassembly is difficult or impractical.
As a pioneer of split seal technology, Flexaseal continues to lead the market – expanding the range with the Style 85M, a heavy-duty split cartridge seal engineered specifically for mixers and agitators, or applications with much larger radial shaft run-out than typical pumps.
Requiring just two pieces to be handled, both the Style 85 and 85M dramatically simplifies installation. Maintenance teams can see just how straightforward the process is – and gain insight into Flexaseal’s manufacturing quality – by viewing the installation video.
Example from the field
At an alumina refinery, seawater intake pumps presented a particularly challenging maintenance scenario. The awkward stuffing box location required technicians to lie on their stomachs to install or change out the mechanical seal.
Operating conditions
- Speed: 1450RPM
- Discharge pressure: 10 bar
- Shaft size: 75mm
While many split seal brands claim ease of installation, most still rely on multiple loose components and exposed lapped faces. In confined working positions, this complexity increases installation time and the risk of errors or seal damage.
The solution
The Flexaseal Style 85 split cartridge mechanical seal transformed the task. With only two cartridge halves to handle, installation time was reduced by 50 per cent, significantly improving safety and efficiency. Technicians reported high satisfaction with the ease of installation, and after more than 12 months of continuous operation, the seal remains in service with no leaks and no issues.
Why the Flexaseal Style 85 split seal is unique
As the pioneer of the world’s first two-piece split seal, Flexaseal continues to set the benchmark. The Style 85 is not just another split seal – it is the most refined and installer-friendly design available today.
Key differentiators include:
- Only two pieces to handle: The Style 85 is the only split cartridge mechanical seal where technicians handle just two robust cartridge halves. Lapped faces are fully secured, preventing cocking, chipping, or accidental damage.
- Installs like a standard cartridge seal: The seal mounts over the shaft and installs using standard cartridge setting clips – no measurements, no shims, no glue, and no special tools.
- Factory assembled and pressure tested: Every Style 85 is fully assembled and pressure tested at the factory before shipment. This critical step ensures sealing integrity and dramatically increases first-time installation success compared to split seals assembled entirely in the field.
- Impeller adjustment without seal removal: The only split cartridge mechanical seal that allows impeller adjustment without removing the seal – saving time and avoiding unnecessary disturbance to the sealing faces.
Proven across multiple industries
While this alumina refinery case study highlights the Style 85’s value in confined installations, its benefits extend across many industries, including:
- Mining and mineral processing
- Oil and gas
- Power generation
- Water and wastewater
- Pulp and paper
- Chemical and petrochemical processing
Anywhere downtime is costly, access is limited, or safety is critical, the Style 85 delivers clear advantages.
The original split seal – still the best
While others have followed, Flexaseal continues to innovate, refining its designs to meet real-world maintenance challenges. For operations seeking the proven performance of the original split seal, combined with the easiest installation and highest reliability available, the Flexaseal Style 85 split cartridge mechanical seal remains the market leader.
Engineered in the US, supported locally
Flexaseal products are designed and manufactured in the US, with local expertise through Flexaseal Australasia ensuring industries across Australia receive fast, knowledgeable support, seal repair services, and industry-leading lead times.
Discover more at flexaseal.com and follow Flexaseal on LinkedIn. For Australian sales and service, contact sales_aus@flexasealau.com or 1300 762 548.
