Stuffing Box Nomenclature - continued

e. Gland: This is a circular metallic element that is used to compress the packing elements and hold it in place. As the packing elements are compressed they tend to widen and press harder against the shaft. This results in a better seal – but tends to “bind” the shaft. The term "binding" indicates "holding in place." The binding of a shaft is not a good thing, since it is likely to damage the shaft.

f. Gland Stud-bolts and Nuts: These nuts and bolts are used to compress the packing elements. Properly compressed packing results in a slight leakage around the shaft. A slight leakage is necessary to ensure packing lubrication and removal of heat created by friction between packing and the shaft. Excessive tightening of the gland nuts results in shaft binding and loss of lubrication – which may result in destruction of the packing.

g. Gland Follower: The portion of the gland which is inside the stuffing box is referred to as the “gland follower.”.