We’ve just launched a free online Thermal Growth (Hot Check) calculator to help simplify one of the most overlooked steps in precision alignment. 👉 Try the calculator👉 Background on the method Why this matters A machine that is perfectly aligned when cold can become misaligned once it reaches operating temperature.Thermal growth causes components to expand …
After taking readings, with a laser alignment system, when making corrections, how often do you have to correct and correct again? Frustration sets in? Precision alignment with a laser system should take no more than two corrections. However, to achieve this end, several things should be checked before starting the work. Are you one of …
A lot of people still believe that they cannot use their laser alignment system when they are confronted to a non-rotating application, well they are mistaken. For more than 10 years now you can have brackets designed especially for non-rotating application. It is simply a matter of have the right tool for the alignment you …
One of the biggest challenge in mills causing headache and loss of time during laser alignment procedure is still coupling backlash. Certain type of couplings are designed to have backlash after installation. This infamous backlash is more than often the main cause of false measurements and repeatability issues during laser alignment correction step, thus causing …
THE CURE FOR ALIGNMENT FRUSTRATION BY STAN RIDDLE When laser alignment tools are not repeatable, it’s not the laser – IT’S YOU. During an alignment it’s easy to take a short cut, put in an incorrect shim, or an incorrect value in the laser. Alignment frustration isn’t new, but it is treatable. The secret – …
COUPLING MOUNTING Before any alignment procedure, you should always check the condition and mounting of your coupling. Your laser alignment tools, align the center of rotation of your machine shafts, the laser will not tell you if your coupling is not installed or mounted adequately. The same rules apply for bent shafts. The above pictures, illustrates …
Engineering and technical people often use technical phrases that sound complicated. Thermal growth is one of those terms. It sounds like it could be an engineering marvel – one that would help us perform complicated alignments of high temperature, high speed machines. So, here’s the “secret” of thermal growth. When metal gets hotter, it gets …
