SHAFT ALIGNMENT: Ex-rated alignment system is shock-, dust-, and water-proof
Damalini has launched an Ex version of the Easy-Laser shaft alignment system, for use in hazardous environments on offshore installations and onshore processing plants. Easy-Laser Extreme, which gained Atex approval earlier this year, is also shockproof and has IP67 classification, confirming that it is dustproof and waterproof. This is a unique feature among shaft alignment systems, according to managing director Nils Andersson.
The Easy-Laser system is designed to be user-friendly. The only information which needs to be input into the measurement program is the distance between the measuring units and the machine feet. However, before carrying out the alignment procedure, the company recommends making a softfoot check to ensure the machine is resting evenly on all its feet.
The measurement procedure is then carried out by taking readings for the shaft at three angles of turn. Most systems demand rotation of the shaft through 180°, but the Easy-Laser software can calculate the alignment from just 40° rotation, making it suitable for use in applications with limited radial space, Andersson says. Both measuring units incorporate a laser, a two-axis detector, and a built-in inclinometer.
Offset, angular values, shim, and adjustment values are shown clearly on the Easy-Laser display. Both horizontal and vertical values are displayed ‘live’, making it simple to adjust the machine.
A wide range of accompanying programs includes a tolerance check, which allows the user to see when the alignment is within the manufacturer’s tolerance values, and a thermal growth compensation program. Packed in the carrying case, the whole system weighs 12 kg, and as Andersson points out, the case also has Ex approval.
The quality system for the manufacture of Easy-Laser has been approved by the Norwegian testing and certification body Nemko, on the basis of which Damalini offers a four-year warranty - probably the longest warranty period available on the market, Andersson claims. In addition, users benefit from one free calibration of the measurement system, indicating that there are no extra costs to be incurred in the first four years of use.
Leading compressor vendors like GE Nuovo Pignone are regular users of the Ex system, as are wind turbine manufacturers.
For more information contact Nils Andersson, Damalini. Tel +46 31 708 6310, fax +46 31 708 6350.[email protected], www.damalini.com
