Powering Sustainability Through the Decades
Embark on a journey where each step in our timeline proudly demonstrates how we've consistently pioneered sustainable solutions and technologies for mission-critical mechanical seal and support systems, couplings and filtration for the energy and process industries, enabling efficient and sustainable operations. Explore the key milestones that have defined our company and significantly contributed to powering global sustainability efforts.
1910s
The origins of our company trace back to the pivotal year of 1917, marking the inception of John Crane. This year laid the foundation for our enduring legacy. During this decade, maintenance engineer John Crane used lead foil from tobacco packages to repair leaky radiator valve feed pumps, earning his first of three packing patents. This innovation laid the foundation for the metallic packing industry, setting a precedent for sustainable industrial solutions.
1920s:
Global expansion in England, Canada and Italy which optimized supply chains and gave customers around the world access to more environmentally friendly products designed to reduce process leakage.
1930s:
The lapping process, which is the foundation for creating reliable products, was developed to ensure the proper face profile, extending mechanical seal life. This process improved the mechanical seal's performance while promoting energy and resource efficiency, supporting our commitment to reliable products and sustainability.
1940s:
John Crane secured 24 patents for mechanical seals suited for high-pressure and corrosive applications, vital in enhancing industrial efficiency and sustainability. This period saw the introduction of Type 1 and Type 6 elastomer bellow mechanical seals, which were critical advancements in sealing technology that improved industrial efficiency and minimized environmental impact. Introduction of the Type 9 PTFE wedge seals for corrosive liquid processing further demonstrated a commitment to reducing environmental impact.
1950s:
Two essential patents were awarded for rotary mechanical seals: one enhanced seal efficiency and longevity by limiting temperatures, and the other prevented leaks of corrosive fluids—minimizing environmental impact while further fostering innovations in sustainable industrial practices.
1960s:
Product line expansion featured environmentally conscious solutions like Free-All penetrating oil for seized components, Cyclo Clean abrasives separator for shaft seals, Types 1 and 1B shaft seals with DuPont Viton™ bellows, alongside Types 9B2 and 8B1 mechanical seals.
1970s:
Type 26 seal with tungsten carbide was introduced, advancing sustainable seal face technology, followed by the first use of Type 28 non-contacting dry gas seal on a pipeline compressor, revolutionizing gas compression by replacing dual wet seal technology to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
1980s:
Pioneering the innovative Upstream Pumping concept, we patented a high-pressure spiral groove seal for upstream liquid pumping. We introduced the cost-effective Type 680 metal bellows seal and develop the Type 8000 non-contacting spiral groove technology for handling environmentally sensitive liquids, emphasizing environmental protection. The Type 37FS split seal was also created, furthering advancements in sustainable sealing solutions.
1990s:
The Type 48 low-emissions shaft seal was introduced for processing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous materials. We established a state-of-the-art Technology Testing Center to comply with API 682 low-emissions regulations and test seal designs under real-world conditions. Type 5600 universal cartridge seals' innovative modular and interchangeable design helped reduce waste and conserve resources. The Type 28XP was launched as the first elastomer-free dry gas seal in the market. The patented Type 2800E non-contacting pump seal revolutionized the industry with its zero-emission design, impacting pump sealing for three decades.
2000s:
This period saw the introduction of several sustainability-focused products. Innovations included the Smartflow intelligent seal water control device to reduce seal water usage and Safeunit™ Ultima to support a mechanical seal while reducing water waste. The Type 5860 heavy-duty single slurry seal enhanced pump life and reduced water usage, while the Type 5840 single slurry seal’s unique design improved reliability and facilitated a shift from traditional packing, both products reducing water usage while increasing pump uptime. The Type 32i dry-running mixer seal revolutionized workplace safety with its patented seal face technology, significantly reducing noise and ensuring compliance with plant guidelines without costly noise abatement systems.
2010s:
Emphasis on sustainability continued by embracing digitization and sustainable manufacturing practices, including additive manufacturing and nanotechnology, to further our environmental commitments.
2020s:
Our journey toward sustainability advances through innovations aimed at reducing water and energy consumption. Among these are the John Crane Sense® Turbo, the industry’s first sensor-enabled dry gas seal that boosts compressor reliability, and the Carbon LF for the Type 28XP LNG dry gas seals designed to resist surface degradation caused by demanding compressor operating conditions such as specific LNG applications. The Type 2874HTC and Type 93LR seals improve energy efficiency and reduce fluid leaks, while the John Crane Diamond® lowers water and power usage. We also introduced the G58IEP low emission control packing for valves to reduce emissions, the GS USP for water conservation and the SB2 USP/SB2A USP, nearly eliminating seal water consumption and reducing power needs.
Present:
As we reach the present day, our journey through the decades is a testament to John Crane's commitment to innovation and sustainability. From our beginnings in 1917 to our position as a global leader today, each milestone reflects our dedication to advancing technology and supporting worldwide sustainability efforts. Looking ahead, we will continue our path toward powering a sustainable future.