stuffing box

noun

, Machinery.

1. a device for preventing leakage of gases or liquids along a moving rod or shaft at the point at which it leaves a cylinder, tank, ship hull, etc.

stuffing box

noun

1. a small chamber in which an annular packing is compressed around a reciprocating or rotating rod or shaft to form a seal Also calledpacking box

Word History and Origins

Origin of stuffing box¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

The engine did not answer very well, for the packing in the pole stuffing box used to burn out, and a cloud of steam escaped.

From Project Gutenberg

Figure 218 is an example of a stuffing box and gland, supposed to stand vertical, hence the gland has an oil cup or receptacle.

From Project Gutenberg

It runs from the piston through one head of the cylinder, passing through a steam-tight stuffing box.

From Project Gutenberg

Usually the stuffing box gives free play to a piston rod or valve rod, without allowing any steam to escape.

From Project Gutenberg

A stuffing box is also used on a pump piston sometimes, or a compressed air piston.

From Project Gutenberg