<p>A flow inducing ring (13) for a mechanical seal comprising a body portion (131) having a first edge face and a second edge face; at least one first groove (16) extending both axially and circumferentially in one direction across the body portion from the first edge face to the second edge face; at least one second groove (15) extending both axially and circumferentially in the opposite direction across the body portion from the first edge face to the second edge face; and whereby each groove (15, 16) comprises an entry portion (100) shaped and configured to draw barrier fluid into the groove from the first edge face and an exit portion (200) shaped and configured to expel barrier fluid from the groove to the second edge face and to impede the drawing of barrier fluid into the groove from the second edge face.</p>
