Wyko introduces a total solution for shaft misalignment in power transmission applications

Citation

(2002), "Wyko introduces a total solution for shaft misalignment in power transmission applications", Sensor Review, Vol. 22 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2002.08722baf.005

Wyko introduces a total solution for shaft misalignment in power transmission applications

Keywords: Shafts

Complete engineering solutions to the misalignment of shafts, belts and pulleys are now available from Wyko Industrial Services. The "Total Shaft Solution" product range, from SKF, consists of the Laser BeltAlign Tool, TMEA 1 Shaft Alignment Tool and the System 24 Automatic Lubricator. The equipment facilitates precision fitting and maintenance of drive systems on high-speed machinery used in manufacturing, process and packaging industries (Plate 5).

Plate 5 WYKO launches SKF's BeltAlign, a precision laser tool, which ensures perfect alignment of belts and pulleys

The SKF BeltAlign is a precision laser tool that enables perfect belt alignment to be attained, bringing measuring methods up to date for high-speed precision machinery. In contrast to simple trial and error adjustments, BeltAlign works by placing a laser transmitter/ receptor magnetically within the groove of each pulley being aligned. Greater accuracy can be obtained in this way by placing the transmitter/receptor exactly where the belt runs, ensuring equally precise alignment, even when the pulleys are of different diameter or width.

As part of its Total Shaft Solutions programme, Wyko is also combating the high incidence of breakdowns in rotating machinery caused by the misalignment of shafts. The new TMEA 1 Shaft Alignment Tool provides an effective solution to premature wear and drive component damage by allowing precision alignment to be carried out with machinery in-situ. High-speed machinery requires very accurate alignment tolerances, which cannot be achieved through traditional methods such as straight edge or feeler gauges. The TMEA 1 provides an easy to use, precision laser measuring system, which produces the necessary accuracies for making adjustments on this type of machinery.

The importance of ensuring adequate lubrication to bearings on shaft assemblies is also addressed with the use of System 24, an automatic lubricator from SKF that sets new standards in lubrication management and efficiency. System 24 guarantees a continuous supply of fresh lubricant at a suitable flow rate to the bearings in a drive system. Once the unit has been set for a particular application, it operates non-stop until the next scheduled cartridge change. With over a third of all of premature bearing failures caused by poor or inadequate lubrication, System 24 presents a compelling case as a practical and cost-effective means of avoiding expensive downtime.