Mechanical seals are used to prevent leakage between a rotating pump shaft and casing. They have two flat surfaces, one rotating with the shaft and one stationary. Proper selection of seal type, materials, and cooling method is important for long seal life. The main types are single or multi-spring seals, bellow seals, and seals that are balanced or unbalanced. Factors like pressure, temperature, fluid properties, and available space must be considered.