Which component of a mechanical seal is designed to prevent axial leakage?

The component of a mechanical seal designed to prevent axial leakage is the seal face. The seal face provides a critical barrier between the rotating and stationary elements of the seal, ensuring that fluid does not escape axially. When the seal faces are pressed together under the right amount of pressure, they create a tight interface that prevents the fluid from leaking out along the shaft.

Even though O-rings, springs, and gaskets are important elements of a seal assembly, they serve different functions. O-rings primarily create a radial seal to prevent fluid leaks from occurring around the circumference of the sealing surfaces rather than preventing axial movement. Springs are used to maintain pressure on the seal faces to keep them in contact, promoting effective sealing but not directly preventing axial leakage. Gaskets provide sealing for flange connections and joints but are not involved in the axial sealing mechanism of a mechanical seal.

In summary, the seal face is the main component that resists axial leakage in mechanical seals, playing a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the seal under operational conditions.