Norscot Shaft Seals

Norscot Dripless Shaft Seals

Norscot Shaft Seals are manufactured by the Ibsen Company, a Seattle-based marine equipment firm founded in 1950. The Norscot Dripless Shaft Seal was introduced in 1990 at the Seattle Boat Show and has since gained a reputation for reliability and low maintenance. Unlike traditional stuffing boxes, the Norscot system uses a cast bronze housing with lip-type oil seals and is lubricated by a small reservoir of transmission fluid, eliminating the need for water cooling. This design helps maintain a dry bilge and reduces wear on the propeller shaft. The Ibsen Company remains a family-run business, now in its third generation, and continues to serve both power and sailboat owners worldwide.

Innovative Design for Leak-Free Performance

The Norscot shaft seal features a cast bronze housing equipped with lip-type oil seals, eliminating the need for water cooling. Instead, it utilizes a self-contained reservoir filled with automatic transmission fluid (ATF) to lubricate the seals and shaft, ensuring minimal friction and wear. This design not only keeps the bilge dry but also reduces the risk of corrosion and shaft damage.

Advantages Over Traditional Stuffing Boxes

Unlike conventional stuffing boxes that require regular adjustment and can leak over time, the Norscot system offers a dripless, maintenance-free experience. Its simple yet robust construction allows for easy installation and long-term reliability, making it a preferred choice for both recreational and commercial vessels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Norscot shaft seal differ from traditional stuffing boxes?
The Norscot seal uses lip-type oil seals and a self-contained ATF reservoir, eliminating the need for water cooling and regular adjustments associated with stuffing boxes.

Can the Norscot shaft seal be used on any boat?
Norscot offers seals for various shaft sizes and can manufacture custom sizes upon request, making them suitable for a wide range of vessels.

What maintenance is required for the Norscot shaft seal?
The system is designed to be maintenance-free, with only occasional checks of the ATF reservoir level recommended.