| 20090302548 | Sequentially-Deployable Lip Seal Systems - Apparatus to enhance performance of sequentially-deployable lip seal assemblies. In certain embodiments, biasing members to ensure deployment of sequentially deployable lip seals include an o-ring mounted within a cartridge or housing of one or more yet-to-be-deployed lip seals, with the o-ring disposed immediately adjacent one of the lip seals. When a barrier member or deployment sleeve is interposed between the one or more yet-to-be-deployed lip seals and a shaft, such as a rotating and/or reciprocating shaft of a stuffing box, the o-ring biases the lip seal toward the outside diameter of the shaft. Upon movement of the barrier member or deployment sleeve to a position exposing the Hp seal to the shaft, the o-ring urges the lip seal into engagement with the outside diameter of the shaft. A pressurized fluid may be employed between the housing and the o-rings. Flush paths, multi-part housings, and baffle-type housings are also disclosed. | 12-10-2009 |
