OL2R – The True Measure of a Machine’s Movement

OL2R is the acronym for OffLine 2 Running. OL2R is an optional program and special precision bracket set that is available for the Fixturlaser NXA Pro & Ultimate (also XA Pro & Ultimate). This option allows the shaft aligner to accurately measure vertical AND horizontal changes of machines from a static (OffLine) position to a…

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“Electrical Pipe Strain?”

Precision shaft alignment of rotating equipment is an essential part of any solid preventative maintenance program. To accommodate aligning any type of machinery you must be able to move one of the elements of the machine to achieve a precision shaft alignment. There are many limiting influences that could cause you to not be able…

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Use your Head Not Your Hammer!

Many of our classroom discussion topics relate to problems in the field when attempting a precision shaft alignment of rotating equipment. One such topic is how to move a piece of equipment horizontally that does not have jack bolts already mounted on the base. The obvious answer is to mount a set of jack bolts…

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The Fastest Way to Do an Alignment

According to our resident alignment training “philosopher” Stan Riddle, “The fastest way to complete a precision shaft alignment is to take your time”. This doesn’t mean to take numerous breaks, what he is telling us is to stop and think! As Industrial Mechanics, usually in a production environment, we tend to try and complete a…

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The Mounting Question??

One of the frequent questions that we are asked is “Where do I mount the sensors?” The answer is that   you must mount them to the rotating elements of the driver and driven machine in a location that provides a solid footing for whatever mounting apparatus you need to use. The sensors also must have…

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Understanding the Need for Offset Shaft Alignment

While at facilities across the country I noticed a lack of understanding regarding the need for precision alignment of offset shaft driven rotating equipment. I myself have seen electricians and mechanics alike becoming frustrated trying to determine the cause of speed fluctuations and vibration in offset shaft driven equipment. Typical response is that the cause…

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“Where can I get alignment specifications?”

This is a question that comes up surprisingly often in our training classes. The question is usually regarding Thermal Growth offsets (dynamic movement) and shaft alignment tolerances. There are several ways to obtain the data in question. The easiest and most readily available would be the equipment manufacturer. Most companies will supply specific offset and…

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Balance Your Couplings

Balancing your couplings is not essential to a great precision shaft alignment, though it is an essential part of a job well done. As part of your prealignment steps/checks, the keyways of the driver and driven machine shafts should be set 180 degrees apart from each other. This will help to correct any influence that…

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The Tools of the Precision Shaft Alignment Trade

Efficiency is a critical element in today’s maintenance environment. In every aspect of maintenance, the right tools are necessary to complete a job quickly and efficiently. When performing precision shaft alignments in the field, there are tools that are typical to almost every job. Aside from the tools that are included in the case with…

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The Devil is in the Details!

During the field alignment portion of a Fixturlaser GO Basic shaft alignment training class, we were attempting to align a 100 H.P., 3600 RPM  motor to a double suction pump. Sounds easy enough! Here’s the skinny… The pump and motor were the top set in a vertical, two unit skid made of I-beams and very…

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