Rotating Equipment Alignment

Professional alignment of pumps, generators, compressors and turbines

0

Years of experience

0

Successful projects

Highly experienced technical team.

What is a Alignment of Rotation Equipment?

Accurate alignment of rotating equipment is a fundamental step during the pre-commissioning and commissioning phases of any industrial project. Misalignment between coupled rotating machines—such as motors, pumps, compressors, and turbines—can lead to excessive vibration, accelerated wear of bearings and seals, energy loss, and even catastrophic failure. That’s why precise shaft alignment is not optional; it’s an essential practice for ensuring mechanical reliability, safety, and efficiency. At Cassia Marine, our team brings specialized expertise and state-of-the-art alignment technology to every project, ensuring that equipment is installed and aligned to the highest standards. Our precision-driven approach reduces downtime, enhances equipment lifespan, and supports optimal operational performance from day one.

Why Alignment Matters?

During commissioning, equipment is installed and operated under live conditions for the first time. Any misalignment—whether angular, parallel (offset), or a combination—can introduce unwanted stress into the system. Even small misalignments (as little as 0.05 mm) can result in significant problems at high RPMs, leading to:

  • Increased vibration and noise

  • Premature bearing, coupling, and seal failures

  • Reduced efficiency and higher energy consumption

  • Unscheduled downtime and maintenance costs

Proper alignment ensures that shaft centerlines are colinear under operating conditions, allowing for smooth power transmission and reduced mechanical load on connected components.

How Alignment is Performed

Alignment is typically carried out in two phases:

  1. Rough alignment during equipment installation, usually done using straight edges or feeler gauges.

  2. Precision alignment, which follows once equipment is grouted, anchored, and ready for final mechanical checks.

This precision alignment is where advanced tools come into play

High-Precision Alignment

Modern alignment techniques use digital and laser-based tools for superior accuracy:

  • Laser Shaft Alignment Tools: These are the industry standard today. They use dual laser heads and sensors mounted on each shaft to measure angular and offset misalignments. The system provides real-time visual feedback and adjustment guidance.

  • Dial Indicators: While still used, these are more prone to human error and are typically reserved for legacy systems or where laser tools are not available.

  • Optical Alignment Systems: Sometimes used for specific applications like turbine-generator sets.

Advanced systems can also compensate for thermal growth, soft foot conditions, and dynamic operating conditions, ensuring alignment is within acceptable tolerances as per API, ISO, or OEM standards.

The Long-Term Benefits

Precision alignment during pre-commissioning ensures:

  • Equipment meets OEM warranty conditions

  • Baseline vibration and performance data are accurate

  • Long-term asset reliability and efficiency

  • Reduced total cost of ownership

Start Typing