(Burlington, Canada – June 3, 2013) Thordon Bearings Inc., a world leader in grease and oil-free bearing solutions has announced the introduction of TG100®, a new water lubricated mechanical face seal for 100 to 305 mm (4”-12”) shaft diameters specifically designed for operation in abrasive waters, but can operate in clean water as well.
The TG100 uses the highest quality Silicon Carbide seal faces designed to last the life of the vessel and operate with ease in both clean and abrasive-laden waters. If the face seals should ever experience damage, a unique feature of the TG100 is its proprietary emergency seal that allows the shaft to continue to turn at low rpm for a limited time allowing the vessel to safely return to port. Stuffing boxes often cause excessive shaft wear and are not considered a reliable solution in emergency situations.
The elastomeric bellows on the TG100 is molded in a unique omega shape from a Thordon proprietary high temperature elastomer that, unlike rubber, has an unlimited shelf life. The optimal design of the bellows achieves the elastic spring force ensuring zero leakage as compared to stuffing boxes that typically leak and require regular disposal of bilge water.
With the introduction of TG100 propeller shaft seals, workboats no longer have to put up with the maintenance hassles and shaft wear commonly experienced with stuffing boxes. For retrofit stuffing box installations, the TG100 does not need special shaft sleeves to be fitted on the shaft. For new vessels, the TG100 is installed directly to the non-corrosive shaft material. The rotary face is locked to the shaft using a special wedge design which guarantees the rotary face will be square with the shaft. TG100 can accept axial and radial shaft movement as well as compensate for alignment issues.
“With the TG100 installed, workboat operators can now carry on business without the worry of seal complications or interruptions due to maintenance issues. The TG100 is a reliable alternative solution and innovative technological replacement for stuffing boxes” says Jan Willem de Jong, Commercial Director at Thordon Bearings. “Vessel owners can now have a single source for their water lubricated bearings and seals.”
TG100 seal and parts inventory is in place and will be sold through Thordon’s international global distribution network covering over 90 countries.
Thordon Bearings Inc. designs and manufactures a complete range of polymer bearing and shaftline products for the marine, clean power generation, pump, offshore and industrial markets. Thordon’s strong and recognizable global brand is known for high quality and superior performance, eliminating oil and grease from bearing applications in ships, hydro-turbines, vertical pumps and many other industrial applications