Alignment CouplingCoupling Alignment ConnectorsWhen two shafts join for the purpose of transmitting power, they come together by way of a coupling. Couplings connect motors to pumps, to gearboxes, to fans, to compressors, to turbines, and a host of other machines that require power by means of a rotating shaft. For shaft coupling alignment to occur, the two shafts must rotate on the same centerline. In this condition the coupling enables a smooth and efficient transmission of power from the powered-shaft to the shaft being powered. Coupling misalignmentA misaligned machine generates harmful forces across the point of power transmission. Higher than normal vibration is the result; this is why coupling misalignment correction is so crucial.The three most typical couplings that require alignmentRigid couplings In a rigid coupling, the two rigid shaft-faces bolt directly together to form the connection. When very precise coupling alignment is called for, rigid couplings are most often the choice. Flexible or flexi-couplings Flexible couplings reduce the shock-impact of rotating shafts at startup. But it's a mistake to believe that these do not require precise coupling alignment; they do. While their inherent flexibility accommodates slight coupling misalignment better, flexible couplings are in no way immune to the harmful vibrations of misalignment. The coupling and shafts still need to be correctly aligned along the shafts' rotational centerline to avoid the vibration-induced problems that cause breakdowns. Spacer-shaft couplings A spacer-shaft coupling, as its name implies, has a spacer shaft in the coupling, often with a flexible membrane at each end. In effect, this arrangement introduces an extra pivot point into the coupling. As such, this coupling type requires careful attention during alignment. Alignment coupling in the fieldConventional methods of coupling alignment, such as the rim-and-face method, rely on machined faces and rims for precision. An error in flatness or concentricity makes accuracy difficult. But expert aligned can be done in the field every time through the use of a state-of-the-art laser coupling alignment system, such as the Fixturlaser GO or Fixturlaser XA systems available from VibrAlign, the US distributor for all Fixturlaser systems.Fixturlaser GO Laser Coupling AlignmentRugged, compact and ideal for use by maintenance technicians, the Fixturlaser GO system does fast and precise alignment checks for horizontal and vertically mounted plant machinery. Its easy-to-comprehend graphic interface and line laser with large CCD detector surfaces enable highly accurate measurements. The system comes with software for horizontal and vertical shaft alignment, Softfoot compensation, and pre-defined target values for thermal expansion. A memory manager organizes results in files and folders.Fixturlaser XA Laser Coupling AlignmentWith its 3D color animations and express results, the Fixturlaser XA system gives its user a jump-start on alignment. The Fixturlaser XA system was designed to handle pump coupling alignment in the field. It depicts the entire alignment process step-by-step, using figures and arrows to show the measurement results and any corrections needed for alignment. Fixturlaser XA's wireless function allows freedom of movement when couplings are measured in one place and alignment adjustments are made in another. In its express mode it registers three measurement points automatically for faster measurement and alignment. An optional spacer shaft coupling alignment program facilitates perfect alignment of shafts and spacer couplings. Fixturlaser XA requires no alignment expertise to use correctly. Further Information regarding coupling alignmentVibrAlign engineers and technicians provide onsite alignment services for virtually every industry and are trained and experienced in all types of coupling connections. For further information on coupling alignment, or to request a system or product brochure or onsite alignment of coupled plant machinery, please contact VibrAlign at 800-394-3279 or by email. |
