Shaft Alignment
Shaft alignment is the adjustment of connected rotating-machine shafts so their centerlines operate within approved offset and angular tolerances.
What this term means in maintenance
Shaft alignment is the adjustment of connected rotating-machine shafts so their centerlines operate within approved offset and angular tolerances.
Why alignment matters
Poor alignment can cause:
- Vibration
- Bearing load
- Coupling wear
- Seal failure
- Energy loss
- Shaft stress
- High temperature
Practical example
A motor and pump are aligned after foundation and piping conditions are checked.
Alignment conditions
The process should consider soft foot, thermal growth, pipe strain, coupling type, and measurement method.
Verification
Final alignment should be recorded with tolerances and operating assumptions.
Common mistake
Aligning only the coupling faces without checking machine base and piping can leave the real cause unresolved.
Related concepts
Related maintenance terms
Keep exploring connected CMMS, reliability, and maintenance planning terms.
Laser Alignment
Laser alignment is a shaft-alignment method using optical measurement devices to calculate and guide machine-position corrections.
Soft Foot
Soft foot is a condition where one or more machine feet do not sit evenly on the base, causing frame distortion when hold-down bolts are tightened.
Mechanical Seal Failure
Mechanical seal failure occurs when a rotating-equipment seal can no longer control leakage between a rotating shaft and stationary housing.
Glossary FAQs
- What is shaft alignment?
Adjustment of connected machine shaft centerlines within approved offset and angular tolerances.
- What problems can misalignment cause?
Vibration, bearing load, coupling wear, seal failure, temperature, and energy loss.
- What should be checked before alignment?
Soft foot, base, pipe strain, coupling, thermal growth, and machine condition.