quote:

Originally posted by Sam Pickens:
The across the coupling laser or dial method is only good for small rigid machines - never use it on large turbo machinery or pedestal bearing machines.

The dial indicator at the foot also has a limitation (see step below) but is a good and an effective method. Generally there's a soft diagonal and a 'hard' diagonal as a four-legged stool only rocks in one plane. On large feet the diagonal deflecton may be in both feet. In addition; you must be aware that a wedge foot may also exist but generally deflections less than 2 mils will be acceptable.

On very large machines where mass overcomes stiffness and especially where a machine has six or eight feet it may be necessary to shoot the feet in or set the shim packs to the same plane. There are laser techniques or optics or electronic levels that can accomplish this. Need more? sampickens@sprintpcs.com