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On site alignment: alignment at the base of every performance
With over 35 years of extensive field experience worldwide, On Site Alignment is the expert when it comes to any alignment problem. The correct alignment of all components in a (propulsion) system is vital. We carry out alignment on all types of rotating equipment, including engines, gearboxes, generators, shaft (support) bearings, pump sets, winches, and bow thrusters. We also measure and correct crankshaft web deflections. Scroll down to find out which alignment services we offer. We usually combine several techniques in one measurement.
SHAFT ALIGNMENT WITH STRAIN GAUGES BY MEASURING BENDING STRESS
- Set up FEM model of the shaftline with the Shaft Designer software.
- Measure the bending strain in the way of every bearing location. When needed we can also collect the data dynamic instead of static. Thus sailing with the vessel.
- The measured data will be entered into the FEM model, and the actual alignment will be calculated by means of reverse engineering. The software will also indicate if the outcome is within the tolerances stated by class and OEM.
- By taking the practical bearing loads, the result of the FEM model and strain gauge data collection will be validated.
- The software will allow you to change the offset per bearing to determine what need to be changed to come back within the tolerances. This is for an efficient as possible repair plan
PROPULSION SHAFTING ALIGNMENT
Propulsion lines consist of engines, gearboxes, shaft generators, shaft support bearings, stern tube bearings, and bracket bearings from the prime mover to rudder installation. To extend the lifespan of bearings, OSA ensures that vibration levels and operating temperatures are well within limits. We make sure the alignment of rotating equipment is optimal in hot-running operational condition.
AUXILIARY SHAFT ALIGNMENT
There are numerous rotating machines present in the marine industry. Examples are generator sets, pump sets, winches, and bow thrusters. As well as the machines in a propulsion line, auxiliary equipment must be aligned to an optimum position. OSA offers you complete alignment of all auxiliary equipment.
STRAIGHTNESS MEASUREMENTS
The straightness of e.g. rails, foundations, and hull bottoms is measured using laser alignment and/or 3D measurement equipment. With these tools, the object can be measured quickly and simply to a high precision.
LINEBORE MEASUREMENTS
Bores are always positioned or aligned relative to each other in structures and machinery. Bores are mainly used to hold roller or plain bearings in position. Bores are found in all types of rotating equipment, such as engines, gearboxes, generators, E-motors, shaft support bearings, stern tubes, and rudder installations. The centerline or boring line measurement is measured using an in-center-placed reference line. From this straight reference line, the bores can be measured in vertical, horizontal, fore, and aft directions.
FLATNESS MEASUREMENT
For a long and problem free operation of, e.g. slewing bearings in cranes or thrusters and other machines, the flatness of a pedestal seating or top plate has a great impact. In general, a flatness measurement survey is performed before installing a machine or component on its seating. We do this in order to determine whether the seating is still within the OEM’s tolerances. If necessary, OSA will machine the surface until it again fits within the specified tolerances.
PERPENDICULAR MEASUREMENTS
Most rudder machines, rudder actuators, and seal housings must be perpendicular to the rudder stock and/or stern tube bearings centerline. It is of the utmost importance that this is done. Misalignment will cause friction and/or leakage. An OSA perpendicular measurement can prevent this.
PARALLELITY MEASUREMENT
e.g., gearboxes, gear wheel drives, and production machines need accurately machined parallel bores. After removing the gears and shafts, OSA can measure the bores for parallelism. This is also required for rollers of e.g. conveyor belts. They must also be placed parallel to each other for a friction-free operation.
CRANKSHAFT WEB DEFLECTION READINGS
Inside piston engines and compressors, a linear movement of a piston is transformed to a rotational movement of a shaft using a crankshaft. To avoid excessive wear and/or fatigue to the crankshaft, maximum bending of the crankshaft caused by bearing offset or external forces must be within the manufacturers' limits. Measurements at regular intervals are, therefore, required. The crankshaft’s bending is measured using a (digital) crankshaft web deflection reader.
Alignment is a detailed line of work. That’s why you’d want only the best to be working on the alignment of your assets. Call On Site Alignment, and we’ll handle the rest.
