Mechanical Dry Gas Seals and Couplings: Operation and Maintenance
| 23 – 27 Mar. 2026, Cairo | 20 – 24 July 2026, Abu Dhabi |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Mechanical dry gas seals and couplings are the critical interfaces of high-speed rotating machinery, ensuring the containment of process gases and the efficient transfer of torque. This course provides an in-depth technical analysis of these components, focusing on the transition from traditional wet-seal technology to the high-efficiency dry gas seal systems used in modern centrifugal compressors. Participants will explore the principles of aerodynamic lift and the engineering of the grooved faces that allow seals to operate with zero contact.
The scope of this training encompasses the design, operation, and auxiliary systems required for both dry gas seals and high-performance couplings. Coverage includes the technical requirements of API 617 and API 692 for gas seals, alongside API 671 for special-purpose couplings. Trainees will examine the various configurations of seals—including tandem, double, and triple arrangements—and the critical importance of seal gas conditioning systems to prevent contamination and premature failure.
Furthermore, the course addresses the maintenance and troubleshooting of these sensitive components. Trainees will learn the precision installation techniques required for diaphragm and disc couplings, as well as the diagnostic indicators of seal distress. By mastering the operational limits and maintenance best practices for these systems, engineers and technicians can significantly reduce the risk of uncontained gas releases and minimize the vibration-related failures often associated with poor coupling health.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Explain the aerodynamic principles of dry gas seal face separation.
- Differentiate between various dry gas seal configurations (Tandem, Double, etc.).
- Identify the major components of a dry gas seal auxiliary conditioning panel.
- Apply API 692 standards to the operation of gas seal systems.
- Understand the role of primary, secondary, and separation seals.
- Diagnose the causes of dry gas seal leakage and high temperature.
- Select the correct high-performance coupling (Disc vs. Diaphragm) for an application.
- Perform precision installation and alignment of special-purpose couplings.
- Interpret coupling manufacturer data sheets and torque ratings.
- Monitor seal gas quality and identify the risks of liquid carryover.
- Implement proper storage and preservation for spare seals and couplings.
- Analyze the impact of coupling imbalance on machine vibration levels.
- Develop a troubleshooting matrix for gas seal and coupling failure modes.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
This course is designed for Mechanical Engineers, Rotating Equipment Specialists, Maintenance Technicians, and Operations Staff involved with high-speed compressors and turbines.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

