The precise alignment of two or more rotating shafts is very important for the optimal operation of machinery related power transmission conditions existing and required in industry. Misalignment comes in two forms, offset and angular. Offset misalignment occurs when the centerlines of two shafts are parallel, but not coaxial (i.e., two separate shafts do not share the same centerline). Angular misalignment exists when two nonparallel shafts are setting at some measurable angle to one another. Both conditions lead to dynamic movement of coupled shafts which in-turn increases heat related thermal expansion, vibration, harmonic forces and loading. Offset and angular misalignment also reduces coupling, bearing and seal life significantly. Historically, shafts were aligned using straight-edges, feeler gages and test type indicators of a combination thereof. Today, with the advent of laser and wireless technology, the personal computer and sophisticated software, shafts can be aligned more quickly and precisely than ever before (see Fig. 11-50). The 5-axis laser sensor pictured in Fig. 11-50 has a built-in electronic inclinometer and allows for the simultaneous monitoring of two planes. By putting the laser alignment device into a continuous sweep mode, usable readings can be taken from any starting point by rotating in either direction as little as sixty degree. The realistic graphic displayed on the screen can be converted to a schematic of centerlines showing the degree of misalignment, as well as specific dimensional information for both the offset and angular conditions. Both images can be downloaded via a...