The symmetrical position between two objects can only be obtained by careful measurement. Although when viewed the object looks symmetrical, in reality, the symmetrical position cannot be obtained 100%. Shaft Alignment is also carried out to get a symmetrical position with a tolerance limit of less than 0.05 mm.
The term alignment refers to the process of aligning two objects, usually the axle axis and the drive shaft. The alignment process itself consists of several methods according to the tools used. Check out the explanation of the tools for alignment below.
1. Ruler
The simplest alignment tool is a ruler. Alignment with a ruler is possible if the diameter of the two shafts being measured is the same. This ruler method relies heavily on the accuracy of the sense of sight. The equipment itself is quite diverse, there are metal rulers, taper gauge, inch feeler gauge, and inside micrometre.
The advantage of alignment with the ruler lies in the availability of tools. Rulers and similar tools are easily available and affordable. The measurement process is simple and does not go through a complicated calculation process. However, the ruler method also has drawbacks.
The biggest drawback lies in the level of accuracy. Alignment using a ruler relies heavily on the eye so it is prone to mistakes due to human errors. In addition, the ruler can only be used on very high tolerance shafts.
2. Dial Indicator
Next there is a dial indicator. When compared to a ruler, this alignment tool has better accuracy. In general, there are two types of dial indicators, namely:
a. Reverse dial indicator (turning one axis) - Used if there is an axis that is difficult to turn or does not have room for adjustment (dial). The advantage of a reverse dial indicator is that the alignment process is simply applied to one axis. That way, engine pairs that do not have axial bearings can be adjusted. The reverse dial indicator is suitable for alignment of electric motors.
b. Rim and face dial indicator (rotating both axles) - How to use it by rotating both axles at the same time and in the same direction. Can be used on large or small diameter shafts on high speed engines. However, this tool is very sensitive. The installation of the dial must be thorough and firm to avoid misreading.
3. Level of precision
There are times when you will encounter objects that cannot be adjusted using the ruler or dial indicator method. Machines such as coal-mill, impeller ID and FD fan, to rotor post APH are difficult to adjust with the two alignment methods. If this happens, an alternative that can be taken is to use the level of precision as a tool for alignment.
The level precision method is actually used to adjust the leveling of the object's surface, both in a horizontal and vertical position. The working principle is similar to a water pass, but the level of accuracy tends to be higher. The tolerance level precision can be up to 0.02 mm in horizontal and vertical levels.
4. Laser
Lastly there is a laser. You could say that laser is the most sophisticated and accurate alignment tool. The laser method makes use of an infrared light sensor to measure the symmetry of an object. How to align the shaft with a laser produces measurements with a high degree of accuracy and is close to 100% symmetrical position.
In addition, the laser alignment process is relatively faster than the previous three methods. Calculations on the laser alignment tool are also carried out automatically and recorded immediately. That way, measurement data can be saved for later viewing. Laser measurements are suitable for the manufacture of heavy equipment and generators.
From this, it can be seen that there are various types of alignment tools. Each also has advantages and disadvantages of each. If you need alignment for industrial use, a laser alignment gauge is a great choice.
Laser alignments such as the VIBRO-LASER VLSATTM have a high degree of precision so that the alignment of your industrial machines is also accurate. Get the VIBRO-LASER VLSATTM immediately through Hyprowira, the official distributor of VIBRO-LASER in Indonesia.
