What are the advantages of mechanical seals over packing in centrifugal pumps?

Mechanical seals provide several advantages over traditional packing systems in centrifugal pumps, one of the most significant being their longer operational life and reduced leakage. Mechanical seals are designed to create a tight seal using a mechanical engagement of two faces, often made from highly durable materials, which results in less wear and tear compared to packing materials that can deteriorate over time due to friction, temperature, and abrasiveness of the pumped fluid.

The design of mechanical seals also minimizes the generation of leakage, which is critical in many industrial applications where fluid loss can lead to increased operational costs and environmental concerns. In contrast, packing may require regular adjustments and replacement to maintain an effective seal, which can lead to operational disruptions and increased maintenance costs.

The other options do touch on certain aspects that may be perceived as advantages, such as cost or variety, but they do not address the core functional benefits that make mechanical seals preferable in situations where reliability and efficiency are paramount.