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 …
When performing shaft alignments procedures, be sure to account for soft or angle foot possibilities; that is, where one machine foot does not sit correctly on its base plate.
REPEATABILITY ISSUES? IS ANYTHING ELSE AFFECTING YOUR ALIGNMENT RESULTS? During the “heat of the battle” to get the precision shaft alignment job finished it is easy to overlook simple items that can cause unexpected results, non-repeatability, and soft foot issues. Here are some examples; Chain Hoists: Vertical Jack (lifting) Bolts: Horizontal Jack Bolts: By Brad …
DOES THE Z AXIS AFFECT ALIGNMENT? In short, no it does not. There are aspects of the z axis that could affect the running of a machine, but rotational shaft alignment is not of them. What is the Z axis? The X and Y axes are references to horizontal and vertical planes respectively. With regard to precision …
WHY CAN’T I JUST USE MY STRAIGHT EDGE Submitted by Jonathan Dissinger at VibrAlign The question of why use laser alignment tools, comes up on a more regular basis than one would think. Many still ask why they should make the investment in laser or dial indicator precision shaft alignment tools. So, let us try …
YOUR CONDITION MONITORING KNOWLEDGE Maintenance dollars are saved by “catching” machine faults prior to critical failure, thereby, reducing the cost of critical failure equipment replacement and the man hours needed to complete this task. Component replacement, instead of complete equipment failure replacement, will allow for better management of maintenance budgets, inventory, and personnel. To do …
BEST PRACTICES Misalignment on running machines can be identified by a series of symptoms such as high vibration levels, coupling wear, oil leakage and abnormal machine temperatures. When you recognize any of this you can suspect misalignment being the root cause. As a rule of thumb shaft alignment should be carried out every time a …
