Which device is commonly used on modern tankers to reduce cargo pump leakage to the pump room bilge?

Mechanical seals are widely used in modern tankers primarily to minimize cargo pump leakage into the pump room bilge. These seals create a tight, leak-proof boundary between the rotating components, such as the pump shaft, and the stationary parts of the pump housing. By maintaining this seal, mechanical seals prevent cargo—often hazardous liquids or chemicals—from escaping and contaminating the bilge water, which is crucial for safety and environmental protection.

In the context of tankers, leakage can lead to serious operational issues, including pollution and safety hazards. Mechanical seals significantly reduce the risk of such occurrences by effectively containing the cargo and ensuring that any leakage that might occur is minimized.

Other devices mentioned have specific roles in pump operations. Shaft sleeves, for example, are protective components that can work in conjunction with seals but are not primarily designed for preventing leakage themselves. Clipper seals and flinger rings also play roles in various sealing and prevention mechanisms but are not as widely recognized or employed for the specific purpose of addressing leakage in cargo pumps on tankers as mechanical seals are.