What is the primary purpose of the gland steam in mechanical systems?

The primary purpose of gland steam in mechanical systems is to create positive pressure and eliminate leakage. Gland steam is introduced into the sealing area of rotating equipment, such as pumps and turbines, to ensure that the pressure within the gland seal exceeds the pressure of the fluid being contained. This positive pressure helps to prevent leakage of the process fluid, which is critical for maintaining system efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. By creating a barrier, gland steam minimizes the loss of working fluid and helps preserve the integrity of the system.

In addition to preserving fluid integrity, the positive pressure created by gland steam can also help in maintaining the operational reliability of machinery by reducing the risks associated with product contamination and potential damage resulting from leaks. While cooling and lubrication functions are important for machinery operation, those are typically addressed by other systems and methods rather than through the use of gland steam.