Posted by BTC Dave on May 01, 2001 at 16:35:49:
In Reply to: Lantern rings and pump packing posted by Brian Buchberger on April 29, 2001 at 18:37:26:
A lantern ring (spacer)is inserted between the rings of packing ( usually in the center of the stuffing box)and is used to distribute the fluid from the seal piping for shaft and packing cooling,to lubricate the packing and to seal the joint between packing and shaft from air leakage.
Usually you can retrofit a mechanical seal with no problem, contact the manufacturer they may have a kit or can provide you with more info on your application.