Laser System Speeds Shaft Alignment

SKF has introduced an innovative system designed to make the process of shaft alignment quick, simple and cost effective in a wide range of manufacturing and process applications. Called Fixturlaser XA, the new entry-level system is ideal for use with all rotating machinery ranging from turbines, motors and gearboxes, to pumps, compressors and fans, and has been developed to enable plant and maintenance engineers to check machine alignment without the need for complex measuring systems. As a result, SKF believes that it will be possible to reduce both downtime and operating costs, while improving productivity and machine operating life. The new Fixturlaser XA uses the latest laser and image sensing technology to produce extremely accurate measurements, and comprises a robust handheld computer with two separate CCD (charge coupled device) sensor heads. Unlike many traditional systems that use PSD (position sensitive detector) heads, these are easy to set up by skilled and unskilled operators alike, and make it possible to carry out rough initial alignment checks within a matter of minutes. Although CCDs are widely used in digital cameras, this is the first time that such devices have been used in laser alignment systems. CCDs are smaller and lighter than traditional PSDs and, as importantly, offer a larger measuring area, are more robust and produce better quality readings, with sensitivity, consistency and linearity all being particularly good. The handheld computer unit is designed to control the measuring and alignment phases and features a large, bright 6.4in touch screen with a high resolution 640 x 480 display. This can be operated using gloved hands and uses simple animated graphics to guide each user step by step through the process. The Fixturlaser XA is available in both wired and wireless versions and is part of SKF's extensive range of measurement, condition monitoring and plant asset efficiency equipment. The new system is backed by full technical support and dedicated on- and off-site training programmes.