The process of shaft alignment is relatively straightforward, particularly with the arrival of easy-to-use and highly accurate laser alignment tools.  But technology can’t replace common sense and there is one crucial factor that should always be included in the shaft alignment process – a thorough coupling inspection.

A laser device doesn’t rely on the human factor and there’s no time-consuming trial and error process.  These tools are lightweight and easy to operate and most importantly, they enable measurements that are far more accurate and reliable than those from any traditional method.  

There are numerous non destructive testing (NDT) techniques available for doing condition assessments of boilers, heat exchangers and their components but choosing the most appropriate one is crucial. 

Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) were invented by NASA and formalised by them in 1989 by which time they were already in widespread use at the organisation.  In the years that followed, this measurement system gained widespread acceptance and was adopted by the US Department of Defence, the EU and the ISO – and it is still used to this day. 

One solution when it comes to measuring energy consumption is ultrasonic flow technology.  This technology has gained widespread acceptance across many industrial sectors as a reliable and accurate way of conducting energy audits. 

The term ‘laser’ shouldn’t automatically connote high accuracy. 

Soft foot (otherwise known as machine frame distortion) is a common problem affecting rotating machinery which can have severe – and costly – repercussions.

Climatic conditions play a significant part in the performance and efficiency of rotating equipment and the more severe the weather, the greater the need for regular and thorough equipment maintenance.

So you’re ready to do an alignment and you’re wondering whether to use three measurement…