Saving short-term money at the cost of long-term loss could never be a good idea. Soft foot is one of the most prevalent problems in rotating machinery, and the improper use of shims is one of the bad guys. This is way too common and is the cause of countless machinery problems worldwide. But let’s not let that happen. Instead, let us guide you through the ideal shims procedure, for an easier alignment task.
1. Initial check
For safety, always remember lockout and tagout of the machine. Then you can go about inspecting the foundation, grout, and baseplate with your eyes. If there is rust, scale, paint, or dirt, remove all of this from under and around the feet. Then you replace damaged shims with new ones, that are corrosion and crush resistant.
2. The right shims and the right number!
Don’t fall for the temptation to use homemade or low-quality shims! In the long run, this will cost you more than you gain short term. Usually, you will also need more shims if you use homemade ones. Use as few shims as possible. Three pre-cut shims should always be enough; in extraordinary situations, four could be needed. The fact is that using too many shims can, in itself, cause soft foot.
The use of anything other than high-quality shims is the main factor when it comes to machines being worn out beyond salvation. Pre-cut, stainless steel shims are perfectly flat and will, as a bonus of sorts, also prevent corrosion.
3. Measure and insert shim
Use a micrometer to measure the thickness of shims 1 mm and thicker. These thicknesses are nominal and not necessarily exact. Insert the pre-cut shims under the foot of the machine until they touch the bolt. Withdraw slightly.
4. Shim size
Use a shim size that adequately supports the load zone of the foot. Whenever the contact between the underside of the machine’s feet and the surface of the base plate or frame is less than perfect, we have what’s called soft foot. Ever sat at a wobbly table? Then you know. The annoying situation where one leg fails to reach the floor is bad enough. For a machine in an industrial context, this is more than just irritating; it will lead to damage if not taken care of.
5. Sandwich
With pre-cut shims, you’ll get a safer and easier machine alignment as well as better machine performance. Burr-free edges and rounded corners prevent injuries from occurring. Sandwich thin shims between thicker ones. If you have used high-quality shims, your machine should now be almost aligned. You are ready to move on to fine adjustment, i.e., aligning your machine using all the tricks of the trade.
Download our Shimming Best Practices Infographic which outlines 7 things to consider when using shims for machine installation or machine alignment plus Step Shimming.
Thank you Roman Megela with Easy-Laser for sharing this informative article with us!
Related Blog: Machinery Alignment Shimming – Things to note about precut stainless steel shims
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Alignment by Diana Pereda