Reverse Indicator Cold Alignment With Graphical Plotting
Abstract
An update and a demonstration of the reverse indicator alignment method with graphical plotting are presented. Hot alignment methods are not covered, but it should be clear that heat rises (falls) can be plotted directly on the graph. Only sizing (scale) differentiates the alignment of pumps from compressors. The scaling presented herein is typical. Reverse indicator tooling and an alignment training model will be discussed. The concentration here is on the pure steps of alignment. The training model allows the movement of a motor relative to a pump. The pump is fixed and the motor is the moveable unit with the coupling feet (near) and outboard feet (far) adjustable by screw travel. Each foot can be adjusted vertically up and down with traversing indicators, as well as horizontally, left and right, with traversing indicators. A flexible coupling remains in place as the shaft is rotated with reverse indicator bars in place. The reverse indicator weights are carried by the motor and pump shafts, i. e., the reach bar only supports its own weight, reducing “bar sag.” Reverse indicator dials, as well as motor foot travel indicators, read out in mil subdivisions (1 mil=0.0014 in=25.4μM). While computer programs for two case alignment checking are available, it is not the preferred method for many situations. Graphical plotting is quite simple, equally as fast, leaves a clear maintenance record, can expand to any number of units in a train and allows for any combination of heat movements.
Description
Tutorialpg. 129
Subject
Pumping machineryCollections
Citation
Jackson, Charles (1985). Reverse Indicator Cold Alignment With Graphical Plotting. Turbomachinery Laboratories, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /164354.