High temperatures and extreme pressure are commonplace in pulp production. KLINGER Brazil was able to provide a more robust alternative packing product for the Brazilian pulp company CENIBRA.
When CENIBRA shut down their Belo Oriente facility in summer of 2022 for regularly scheduled maintenance, they were ready for a change. The plant’s capacity of 1,200,000 tons per year cemented their status as a global leader in pulp production, but frequent equipment service was causing costly and time intensive delays. The digesters and feeders used to process pulp were subject to the most severe conditions of chemicals products, pressure and temperature: upwards of 160°C (320° F) and 12 KGF (kilogram-force), respectively.
Contacts mentioned in the article:
Vinicius Tomiati, Product Specialist Seals at KLINGER Brazil
In need of a robust compression packing
The team saw the shut down as a window of opportunity, and wisely used the time offline to test out better packing alternatives. Already pleased with the KLINGERSIL products they currently had in use at several locations, Cenibra called on KLINGER Brazil to provide a more robust alternative packing product, and in short order they had a solution: GFO compression packing. This packing is made from expanded PTFE and encapsulated graphite, which offers excellent lubrication and thermal conductivity to dissipate heat and withstand friction. This prevents damage to the fibers and provides lubrication of the compression packing itself, for better performance and significantly increased product life span.
terms of performance, durability, scope of application and economy.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is a GFO compression packing?
The fiber compression packing is a high-performance product focused for industrial use. Its purpose is to operate the equipment for a longer continuous time and with less interference to adjust or change the compression packing. Its excellent continuity in terms of fibers and interlacing ensure operational savings by reducing friction, less leakage, maintenance and production process continuity.
Where are GFO compression packagings being used?
GFO compression packing can be used for an extensive application list within the industry. It can be used in several pumps, including centrifuges, rotary, turbines and pistons as well as in valves, agitators, mixers, dryers and refiners. Due to its wide range of services, the GFO can be used as a standard compression packing solution.
What are the main features of KLINGER Brazil GFO Compression Packings?
KLINGER Brazil GFO compression Packing provides excellent lubrication and thermal conductivity. This makes the sealing essential in the dissipation of heat from the fluid and friction. Industry professionals appreciate its performance, durability, scope of application and economy.
KLINGER compression packing made of GORE fiber 100% GFO
Because Cenibra had a prior working relationship with KLINGER and had firsthand proof of their catalog’s quality, they were open to further experimentation. Vinicius Tomiati , Product Specialist – Seals for KLINGER Brazil, explains, “After starting the production of GFO compression packings at KLINGER Brazil, we began to develop technical work with the customer for the application of the GORE products.” This research and real time feedback allowed the team to create an even more effective product, which would stand up to the tough operating conditions the plant equipment experienced during daily use.
„The GFO compression packing has been performing satisfactorily. The goal is to last 15 months in operation.“
Vinicius Tomiati, Product Specialist Seals at KLINGER Brazil
To date, the Cenibra plant is humming along with the new KLINGER GFO compression packing in place. The team is confident that the new material will offer an increased life span that will allow the plant to extend their maintenance and repair schedule to a more cost efficient and predictable time frame.
Fact box
Did you know …
- … that KLINGER Brazil was founded in 1968 with the aim of contributing to the safety of industrial processes in the country, offering sealing systems, fluid control and fluid monitoring systems?
- … that KLINGER Brazil’s portfolio includes solutions for sealing fluids, which comprise a wide range of sealing sheet material, graphite laminates, PTFE, metal gaskets and seals as well as solutions for fluid control and fluid monitoring systems, which include valves, traps, Y-strainers, level gauges and manifolds?
- … that KLINGER Brazil produces sealing sheet material for over 45 years?
