Packed Joints Query

[SnTMan]

(Time to "forum shop" this one)

Hi all

Anybody know of a rational way to pressure-rate a packed joint?

This would be a type of joint using something like a stuffing box, rope packing and packing gland.

They are fairly common in S&T heat exchangers in the form of test rings, used for leak testing a shell/bundle at ambient temps with a shell cover removed.

Some customers seem suprised that we do not advise using them in 60" dia. at 700 psi, so a rational rating method would be very helpful.

Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

 

[DowneastTech]

For what it is worth, a detailed study of the design and performance of packed joints was made by Stone and Webster about 15-years ago. I don't have a copy, as I recall they wanted $500 for the report. Maybe you can locate a copy through R.I.C.E. at Rice University's Fondren library.

Good luck,

DowneastTech

DowneastTech
Mechanical Engineer
Magnus R & D, Cypress, TX

 

[SnTMan]

DowneastTech,

A web search didn't turn up anything on this, unless it is part of some other paper.

Thanks anyway, may try my public lib.

 

[DowneastTech]

The only other source I know of for a rational approach to packing is given for the design of packing glands for valve stems and can be found in " The Valve Designer's Handbook" by Jerry Lyons. Probably Abebooks on the internet will have a copy.



DowneastTech
Mechanical Engineer
Magnus R & D, Cypress, TX