What is a key characteristic of mechanical seals in water treatment systems?

In water treatment systems, mechanical seals are critical components that provide sealing for rotating equipment, such as pumps. A key characteristic of these seals is that they should not leak at all when functioning properly. The purpose of mechanical seals is to prevent fluid leakage between the rotating shaft and the stationary housing.

Leakage can lead to a range of issues, including loss of water, contamination of the treated water, and increased maintenance costs. Preventing leaks is crucial for both operational efficiency and environmental protection. This feature ensures that the system remains reliable and maintains the quality of the water being treated.

While some characteristics—like ease of replacement or maintenance requirements—are certainly important, the primary function of mechanical seals in this context is to maintain a watertight seal, making the absolute prevention of leakage the defining characteristic.