When using the three-table alignment method to align a machine unit, should one start by adjusting the horizontal direction or the vertical direction first?
Thread Content
When aligning a unit or pump, should the horizontal deviation be adjusted first or the vertical deviation? The books say that one should first adjust the vertical deviation before adjusting the vertical alignment, but in practice, the experienced workers insist on adjusting the horizontal deviation first, saying that if the horizontal alignment is not correct, the vertical alignment cannot be accurate either. However, every time I adjust the vertical deviation after fixing the horizontal alignment, the level gets disrupted by the shims added, forcing me to make adjustments again, which is very time-consuming. Every time I try to adjust the vertical deviation first, the experienced workers don’t allow it, so I don’t have the chance to put this method into practice. I think it’s fine to first adjust the vertical deviation and then the horizontal alignment, as long as the measurement values satisfy the conditions a1+a3=a2+a4 and s1+s3=s2+s4. I’m not sure if this is correct. Also, does anyone have any good methods for adjusting the horizontal deviation? For the vertical direction, adding the padding once or twice is usually sufficient, while for the horizontal direction, it takes several adjustments. Sometimes after making eight adjustments, the radial alignment is still off; and after adjusting the radial alignment eight times, there are still issues. Is there a faster and more accurate way to make these adjustments?
Is a calculation method also used when adjusting the horizontal deviation? A dial indicator is then installed on the feet, and set screws are used to adjust the amount of translation for each foot. Is this method feasible?
First, conduct centering data analysis to determine whether the deviation is greater in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, and then focus on the direction with the larger deviation. Generally, start by adjusting the vertical direction; once that is done, use a hammer or set screw to adjust the horizontal direction. Using calculation methods is much faster than relying on experience. Centering and alignment work can be done quickly and effectively only through calculation combined with experience.
First, analyze it; generally, start by finding the vertical direction, and then the horizontal direction
Generally, it’s necessary to first check the horizontal alignment; this is done to prevent difficulties in achieving horizontal alignment. If you first ensure vertical alignment and then try to adjust for horizontal issues, but are unable to detect any horizontal deviation, then all that vertical adjustment would have been pointless, right? Ensure that the horizontal deviation can be adjusted; then calculate the adjustment amounts for the front and back based on the dimensions of each component, and use shims to make the necessary adjustments. First, ensure proper vertical alignment – no need for shims at this stage – and then proceed with the horizontal adjustments.
Find the horizontal first, then the vertical. Only in this way can the amount by which the foundation height of the unit to be leveled needs to be increased or decreased be accurately calculated based on the similar triangles of the shafting system. Otherwise, the calculation will be inaccurate.
There is no fixed order regarding whether alignment in the horizontal or vertical direction should be done first; it depends on what kind of work you do – whether you are involved in installation or maintenance. Second, check whether the devices have a shared base or are separate. Third is to find your own proper alignment* habit. It can’t be determined by any fixed formula. You are in maintenance work; for equipment, one usually checks the vertical direction first, as it’s not possible to check the horizontal direction in that way. When doing installation, one usually starts by determining the horizontal level; in any case, it’s not possible to determine both horizontal and vertical levels in just one attempt. Generally, it takes two or three attempts to get it right, and this depends on the level of accuracy required.
So, does anyone have a fast and accurate method for aligning things?
Whether using formula-based methods or empirical approaches, it is necessary to adjust the level first; if the level isn’t set properly, the values shown in the table will be inaccurate. It’s impossible to find the center right away, and continuous adjustments are required. If you are proficient in the formula method, it is recommended to use it, as it will increase your speed; once the calculations are done, the result will be pretty accurate. Regarding the issue of horizontal movement you mentioned, when adjusting it vertically, you can use your hands to tighten the set screws on all four feet, thereby preventing the motor from moving – at least it won’t move too much.