Laser shaft alignment

When two machines are connected together through a shaft coupling, every effort must be made to eliminate misalignment of those shafts which can lead to damage or wasteful loss of energy. Lasers are highly accurate and easy to use in aligning objects. Using laser shaft alignment techniques can reduce the amount of time in the alignment process.

Precise laser coupling alignment is used to reduce bearing and seal damage, minimize energy loss, and reduce production downtime. Performing coupling alignment on a scheduled basis will make machinery last longer and perform more efficiently.

There are several methods used to align couplings including 'eyeing' it, dial calibration and laser alignment. Each method varies in its degree of accuracy and dial calibration can be a very time consuming process.

Utilizing a state-of-the-art laser measurement system, a technician will measure and align couplings, universal joints and belts. This alignment allows conveyor systems and manufacturing machines to run in a straight line. A factory line that makes masking tape is a good example of the need for precision alignment. In order for the tape to spool neatly and at a high rate of speed, the take up reel shaft must be exactly perpendicular to the incoming tape. Any deviation will decrease the quality of the end product.

To control the co-linearity and angle of two shafts at the coupling, where the power is transmitted - laser shaft alignment technology can help to perform the measurement easily. The Laser "shoots" onto a position sensitive detector, during continuously rotating the shafts the detector collects all changes and can calculate the gap & offset at the coupling position.

In addition the shaft alignment device can check whether the alignment is in within OEM tolerances or not.

ee also

*Coupling
*Alignment

External links

* [http://www.vibralign.com Express Alignment by Fixturlaser]
* [http://www.pruftechnik.com/en/alignment-systems.html PRUFTECHNIK - The inventors of laser shaft alignment]
* [http://www.unionmillwright.com/shaft.html Shaft Coupling Glossary]
* [http://www.ludeca.com Professional Laser Shaft Alignment measurement devices]
* [http://www.alignmentsupplies.com Laser Measurement Systems for Shaft & Machinery Alignment]