We have been experimenting with a unique combination of the best available fibers and our exclusive HDYÔ (Heat Dissipating Yarn) material. It is our contention that all packing would last longer and score the shaft sleeve less if it was adjusted carefully and maintained constantly. We are putting many resources toward developing a packing line that will compensate for less than desirable installation and maintenance procedures. The VA Line will:

1. Dissipate frictional heat.
2. Cost less.
3. Be kinder to the shaft sleeve.
4. Have increased yield (more feet per pound=more pumps packed).
5. Last longer.
6. Require less adjustments.

We intend to utilize many of the high quality yarns that we currently use in a homogeneous fashion. In fact the materials that contact the shaft sleeve will be the same as our current line. The exciting difference is that the packing will be filled with HDY. Our new line of Value Added packing will become our VA line.

There are many reasons for less than adequate packing adjustments:

1. Many Paper Mills and other large fluid processing industries put refurbished pumps on a storage shelf awaiting a breakdown. The pump will be put on line and the packing was installed on the bench and will not see any further adjustments after startup.
2. During a maintenance shutdown most pumps are repacked and tightened. The entire line is started up with little or no attention given to proper run in procedures.
3. Many maintenance folks believe that a few extra turns on the gland nuts will make for a longer running packing. In reality, it will promote packing and sleeve wear, higher energy consumption, and higher maintenance costs.
4. Many maintenance folks do not know that packing should throttle leakage, not stop leakage.
5. Production personnel do not like a messy area, so they will tighten the packing excessively.