With over 14 years of experience in the complex industrial world, it has become evident that certain individual parts within pumps and motors stand out in reaping the benefits of precision alignment. Let’s start with pumps, an indispensable machine in various industrial processes for moving fluid through the plant and maintaining system pressures. Achieving precision alignment is instrumental in increasing the life of certain components within pumps, such as impellers, seals, bearings and shafts. Performing precision alignment not only minimizes wear and tear but optimizes efficiency, ultimately extending the overall lifespan of the machine and contributing to the reliability of the entire system.
Shifting our attention to motors, the unsung heroes driving the majority of industrial operations, the importance of precision alignment is highlighted when looking at certain motor components. Misalignment between two machines can have a crucial effect on elements such as motor windings, bearings and shafts, resulting in an increase in energy consumption, unwanted vibration, and premature failure. Prioritizing precision alignment after installation, and after repair or overhauls will prove beneficial, helping maintenance departments enhance motor efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and fortify the overall reliability of the machinery.
In the world of rotating machinery, laser alignment systems are a key tool in the arsenal of maintenance toolrooms. Laser alignment systems offer unparalleled accuracy for detecting soft foot and pipe stress, surpassing the limitations of traditional methods. Laser alignment eliminates guesswork, providing precise measurements and adjustments to save components such as couplings, shafts, and bearings within most rotating machines, as well as impellers and seals within pumps. Using laser alignment technology not only ensures optimal performance but also minimizes the risk of breakdowns. In essence, the pursuit of precision alignment is not just a best practice; it is a strategic activity for everyone aiming to maximize productivity in the ever-evolving landscape of industrial machinery.
Watch our Shaft Alignment Know-How: The Basics video to learn the fundamentals of precision machinery alignment.
I use a Laser Alignment System, so I am Performing Precision Alignment, Right?
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Alignment by Adam Stredel CRL