What information is needed to order packing?

The packing section — the difference between box and stem diameter, divided by two — the box depth, the stem diameter, temperature, pressure, and fluid. Those define the section, the number of rings, and the braid type.

By the metre or as cut rings?

Both presentations are used. The metre is practical for maintenance stock covering several sizes; cut and made-up rings avoid cutting errors and make installation repeatable.

Why does it still leak after replacing the packing?

The most frequent causes are not in the packing: a scored stem, a box out of tolerance, rings whose cuts are not staggered, or uneven gland tightening. It is worth checking the stem condition before repeating the change.

How tight should the gland be?

Enough to contain the leak without blocking operation. Over-tightening raises friction on the stem and accelerates its wear; the specific procedure is set by the equipment manufacturer.

Graphite packings for shaft and valve sealing

Sealing applications

Sealing packings

Graphite packings for dynamic and static sealing in valves, pumps, and flanges.

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Stuffing box seal

Also known as: Braided graphite packing · Stuffing box packing · Graphite gland packing · Graphite packing rings

[ Technical summary ]

Packing seals the passage of a stem or shaft through the stuffing box: the rings are compressed axially by the gland and that compression translates into radial pressure against the stem. Braided graphite is common in process valves and pumps because it combines that sealing ability with low friction on the stem, and with a thermal and chemical range where conventional packings harden and begin to leak.

[ Problem it solves ]

Contain leakage at a moving stem or shaft, without tightening the gland so much that friction blocks operation or wears the stem surface.

Processes

Stem sealing
Flange sealing

Operating conditions

High temperature

When it is suitable

The valve or pump leaks at the gland
Conventional packing hardens at the service temperature
Valve operating torque has risen because of packing friction
The process medium chemically degrades fibre packings

When it may not be suitable

The process medium is a strong oxidizer and compatibility has not been verified
The stem is scored or corroded and is not dressed before installation
The stuffing box is out of tolerance or misaligned

Process challenges

Stuffing-box leaks
Hardening of conventional packings
Elevated temperature

Advantages

Wide thermal range
Good sealability
Low friction in dynamic service

Limitations

Does not replace metals in high-load structural seals without proper design
Oxidation in air at high temperature
Chemical compatibility of the medium

[ Critical selection variables ]

These variables define the grade and the geometry. Actual values are confirmed against the grade datasheet.

Differential pressureDecisive
Operating temperatureDecisive
Fluid or medium in contactDecisive
Geometry and tolerancesDecisive
Counterface material and finishRelevant
Sliding speedRelevant
Thermal and duty cyclingRelevant

[ Required material properties ]

Properties that guide selection. Numerical values come from each grade's datasheet.

Critical properties

Compressibility
Impermeability
Thermal stability
Chemical resistance

Secondary properties

Friction coefficient
Self-lubrication
Purity

[ Related ]

[ Frequently asked questions ]

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Technical content reviewed by ESGRAF — Last reviewed: September 8, 2026

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