Laser shaft alignment tool helps to set up machines rapidly

Published: 16 September, 2014

Fluke has announced an easy-to-use, laser-based shaft alignment tool that performs complicated alignment calculations automatically, thus helping to align machines quickly. The Fluke 830 tool is said to eliminate the difficult calculations and guesswork associated with traditional straight-edge or dial indicator alignment methods, and to reduce repair time, unplanned downtime and the need for replacement parts.

The tool guides the user through a step-by-step set-up process. All that the user has to do is set-up, measure and diagnose. A four-level severity scale compares the machine to acceptable machine tolerances and recommends specific repairs.

The tool provides easy-to-understand results that do not need extensive alignment knowledge. An all-in-one display shows both the coupling results and any feet corrections (vertical and horizontal) in real-world terms, making it easy to take corrective action.

The Fluke 830 Laser Shaft Alignment tool includes:

• a single laser measurement technology, said to reduce errors from backlash, and to result in more accurate data;

Fluke’s laser-based shaft alignment tool can be used without needing detailed alignment knowledge

• a compass measurement mode that results in reliable and repeatable measurements using an electronic inclinometer;

• a dynamic machine tolerance check that evaluates alignment adjustments continuously so that the user knows when the machine is within an acceptable range; and

• an “extend” mode that offers unlimited measurement ranges to handle gross misalignments.