Alignment coupling is the process of aligning or symmetrical two axles of a machine so that they rotate on each other. The axis of the shaft is arranged in such a way as to be centric between the drive shaft and the axis of the driven shaft. The alignment coupling method itself can be done in several methods, starting from the ruler method, dial indicator, laser, and level precision.
Why Alignment Coupling Needed?
The industrial machine that you use consists of many supporting components. One of these components is the axis of the shaft which rotates on one another. Even though the axle of this shaft is a small part in the engine, if the axis is moved from the rotation area, it can cause vibration and friction in the engine. If it is not immediately repaired by means of an alignment coupling, the machine will break down quickly and not function optimally.
Therefore, every once in a while, it is necessary to check the axles of the shaft to make sure these components rotate precisely on each other. Even if you find a shifted axis when checking, then immediately do the alignment coupling to return the axis of the shaft to its place.
1. Ruler Method
The ruler method is the simplest coupling alignment method you can do. This method relies on the precision of the eye to determine the axial deviation of the engine shaft. Condition, the hub-coupling diameter and the shaft diameter must be the same. Because, if not, the alignment using a ruler cannot be done. To get the best results in a short amount of time, you need to be very observant about the angle shifting.
2. Dial Indicator Method
The dial indicator method is more popular than the ruler method. This method is often used in the work of aligning the axle of the engine because the results are very accurate. There are two ways to do the dial indicator method, namely the rim and face dial indicator and the reverse dial indicator.
3. Rim and Face Dial Indicator
The rim and face dial indicator method is done by turning the two machine shafts clockwise simultaneously. While turning the two axles, mark the starting point of the needle on the shaft so that the reading of the numbers does not vary with each rotation.
4. Reverse Dial Indicator
The way of alignment coupling through the reverse dial indicator method is done by installing two pairs of dials on the axis of the shaft. This method is done if one of the engine axles is difficult to turn, while the other axle is not enough room for the dial. The dial which is already attached to the axis of the pivot will be rotated to produce an alignment.
5. Level Precision Method
The alignment method of coupling using the level precision method is actually not for complete alignment work. This method is only used when you want to adjust the flatness of the axle axle of the machine. Evenness level alignment can only be done vertically. However, the accuracy of this method reaches 0.02 mm on a machine. You can use the level precision method when the dial indicator method cannot be applied to the axle of the machine.
6. Laser Method
You could say that the alignment coupling using the laser method is the most precise and accurate. If other methods require precision and eye foresight, then with the laser method, you will be helped by infrared rays that align the axle of the machine. Initially, the axis of the shaft will be measured by infrared light to test how high the level of shifting. Then using the same beam, the alignment of the two axles of the engine shaft is carried out. You don't have to squint to see the alignment angle of the shaft because everything will be done by the laser.
The laser method which uses infrared light technology to align the shaft is the most appropriate coupling alignment method. You can use VLSAT TM, a laser shaft alignment to align the axis of a rotating machine shaft. VLASTTM alignment results have been tested to be accurate and fast. Get this product at Hyprowira!
