Shaft alignment

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Shaft alignment for machinery is an absolute requirement before the machinery is put in service. When a driver like an electric motor or a turbine is coupled to a pump, a generator or any other piece of equipment, it is essential that the shafts of the two pieces are aligned. Any misalignment between the two can and will almost certainly result in premature breakdown of the equipment. This can be very costly. When the equipment is down, production might be down. Also bearings or mechanical seals may be damaged and need to be replaced. A proper shaft alignment can prevent this. Before such a shaft alignment can be done, it is also essential that the foundations for the driver and the driven piece are designed and installed correctly. If that is the case, than shaft alignment can be started. Following is a step by step procedure for the so called reverse dial indicator alignment.