Which part of a pump houses the packing or mechanical seal?

The stuffing box is the component of a pump that houses the packing or mechanical seal. This part is designed to create a leak-proof seal around the shaft of the pump, which is crucial for preventing fluid leaks as it rotates.

The packing material fills the stuffing box and provides the necessary pressure to keep the fluid contained. In cases where a mechanical seal is used, it serves a similar purpose, creating a barrier between the pump's casing and the shaft to maintain pressure and minimize leakage.

In simpler terms, the function of the stuffing box is essential for the pump's reliability and efficiency, as it directly influences the operational integrity by controlling leakage. Ensuring that the stuffing box is in good condition is critical for the overall performance of the pump and the management of the fluid being pumped. Other components, like the shroud, volute, or casing head, play different roles in the pump system, but they do not serve the specific function of sealing around the shaft.