Abstract: Compact stuffing box packing assemblies of the present application include high density metal inserted braided end rings of graphite which have each been die formed to have angled facing surfaces and a plurality of center Preform rings is disclosed In one embodiment, three low density graphite Preform rings having angled facing surfaces are contained between the high density braided end rings. The facing surfaces of the Preform rings extend at a different angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the packing assembly than do the facing surfaces of the braided end rings. The braided end rings provide a support function for the Preform rings as well as a stem wiping function. In another embodiment, additional Preform support rings made of the same material as the end rings are positioned between the low density Preform rings.

Abstract: A ruler for aiding in packing a stuffing box surrounding a shaft having a measurement scale comprising at least one mark for delineating the optimal compressed height of a compressible set of packing rings, each packing ring having about the same optimal compression and dimension, and a linear series of graduation marks of repeat basic measurements units for delineating by the distance between the graduation marks the height of non-compressible bushing rings of about the same dimension.

Abstract: A valve packing compression apparatus and method of use therefor are disclosed for compressing packing rings into a stuffing box of a valve bonnet which has a gland follower. The compression apparatus includes a base plate configured to support and consistently position the valve bonnet. A rocker arm is pivotally attached to the base plate. A hydraulic ram is also attached to the base plate and extends to contact one end of, and thereby pivot, the rocker arm. The opposite end of the rocker arm includes a pair of tines which straddle a yoke support arm of the valve bonnet and align with the gland follower. Hydraulic fluid is provided to the ram by a hydraulic pump through a pressure regulator. When the hydraulic ram is activated to extend, the tines contact the gland follower, thereby compressing the packing rings a predetermined amount.

Abstract: The compact five ring stuffing box packing assembly includes high density metal inserted braided end rings of graphite which have each been die formed to have angled facing surfaces. Three low density graphite preform rings having angled facing surfaces are contained between the high density braided end rings. The facing surfaces of the preform rings extend at a different angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the packing assembly than do the facing surfaces of the braided end rings. The braided end rings provide a support function for the preform rings as well as a stem wiping function.