Proper shaft alignment is essential to the operating efficiency of rotating machinery. Correctly aligned shafts ensure smooth, even power transmission from the motor to the driven components. Though there is a variety of shaft alignment tools and methods to choose from, including straightedge or feeler gauges, dial indicators, and optics – today’s laser shaft alignment systems offer significant advantages over these traditional methods.

How Do Laser Shaft Alignment Systems Work?

Portable, quick, and accurate, laser shaft alignment systems have become the tool of choice for many industrial applications. There are a variety of laser alignment systems available from several vendors, yet the basic components and alignment methodology are the same.

Laser shaft alignment systems typically consist of two sensors (laser emitters/receivers), rods, brackets, chains, and a display unit. Most systems today have Bluetooth Wireless built-in or some even have the ability to connect directly through a downloadable app on a tablet or smartphone.  Components of typical laser shaft alignment system

Laser shaft alignment systems can be modified with extended chains for larger diameter shafts, and longer rods for aligning shafts with larger couplings or to avoid obstructed laser paths.

Before the sensors are mounted, a pre-alignment check should be completed. Pre-alignment includes performing a rough alignment, eliminating obvious soft foot, tightening bolts and doing a final soft check.

Once the pre-alignment check is complete, the sensors are mounted to both the stationary and movable shafts or coupling hubs, and the lasers beams are turned on. The operator will then be prompted to run through a predetermined series of steps which include entering specified dimensions and selecting the necessary tolerances based on either the preset choices or customizing to the customer’s tolerance specifications.

The operator will next take alignment readings using a 180° minimum sweep (suggested for best results). These systems measure at a high rate of speed and detect alignment variations in microns, with results displayed immediately to the nearest .0001”. Once initial data is gathered, the unit will then prompt the operator through the steps needed to correct both horizontal and vertical misalignment.

shaft alignment display image

Image shows shows the display of angularity and offset alignment conditions using the Fixturlaser XA, a laser shaft alignment system from VibrAlign

Advantages of Laser Shaft Alignment Systems

  • Highly portable and reliable for use in most industrial environments
  • Gathers measurement data quickly and accurately
  • Straightforward alignment procedure
  • Calculates all mathematical equations for shimming and corrections (removes human error)
  • Data displayed in real-time
  • Customer specifications and alignment data can be stored for future maintenance purposes

In future posts, we will delve deeper into shaft alignment methods. Additionally, we will provide you with the symptoms of shaft misalignment, causes of machine misalignment and an overview of the results you can achieve from proper shaft alignment.  

OASIS has equipped each of our eight service centers with laser shaft alignment systems. Our shaft alignment experts are available to discuss your specific alignment needs or to answer any questions. Please contact us for more information or to schedule a visit to your facility.  

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