Hello out there...
we are looking for a new Laseralignment-System..

Can anyone explain me where the difference between 1 or 2 Lasers is?
We need it for alignment of horizontal equipment (motors,pumps,etc...in our chemical plant)

P.S:
Sooory for my baaaaad english

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Matthias Lauber,

Basically single beam systems are affected by axial float or axial position. So, you should index.

The dual beam works like 'indicator reverse'; so, thrusting isn't a problem.

No one shoe fits all feet. In many instances the dial indicators are better and much faster than the laser. The laser isn't faster or more accurate than the indicators. However, the laser may be the best fit for your application. But, it is not the best fit for all applications or methods.

Thanks Sam for your explanation to my question.
Yes, maybe the indicator was better and faster sometimes (?), but i think only when the user is a "pro"
In our case i think the laser is better, (easier) because in our workshop any mechanic do the alignment job..there is no specialist for this work...

I use an older single beam Optalign laser system. It is not significantly affected by shaft axial position changes. It is very dependent on uniform rotation of both shafts that is accomodated by leaving coupling intact or by adding a temporary bar/support between shaft ends. Many of the new model laser systems have much larger heads and bracket/clamps that may not fit into tight places on shafts and around couplings. This can be a real issue with small vertical machines and other situations. If I were buying a new laser I would consider:

1. Size to fit machine coupling spaces
2. Application support to adapt to the unusual machine alignment situations
3. Reliability
4. Ease of Use
5. Price based on Cost/Benefits

Remember this: if it won't fit on machine, then it stays on the shelf!

Hi Walt,
were now testing a optalign laser.
The only problem i see: the people in the workshop are accustomed to Combilaser...
The second laser we want test is a fixturelaser/SKF...
Are there more Systems at the market? I find only Easy-Laser yet, but we want a system that is EX/Atex...

Walt came across with some good stuff. You can index w/single beam so there is no problem.

The fixture laser is great in my opinion and I like it better (now have a Ludeca Rotalign pro). Sometimes the laser bracket setup is more convenient; but if I have a set of brackets that fit; I'd just as soon or rather use indicators. In 'Long Spacer Coupling' method, the indicators win out every time as better and faster.

But, the laser does not make you a better alignment tech ... If you can't do it with indicators, chances are you will do poorly with a laser.

Mat,

Emerson/CSI has a laser system. You will have to do your own evaluation of which one is better for your needs. The orientation training for using a different brand/model has to be offset by other advantages, otherwise it is not good to make change. A good laser system should be transparent to the alignment job. It should allow you to concentrate on all the issues besides making measurements:

Tolerance criteria
Cold setting
Hot/operating changes
Soft-foot
Coupling inspection and repair
Jacking bolts
Anchor bolts and washers
Bolt torque
Shaft rotation method
Movement methods
Shims
Dowel pins
Coupling guard
Etc...

There have been a lot of innovations since my old invisible single beam laser was made:

Visible beam
Longer distances
More alignment configuration calculations
Wireless link to computer
Partial shaft rotation
Relaxed requirement to rotate/index both shafts
Data storage
Report printing
Etc...

What do you really need? I tried a Rotolign Pro at a customer's plant and quickly put it aside. I didn't have the time to re-learn a new method from the same vendor. The new model computer was larger, heavier, and a battery hog compared to my old one. Is that the price of progress? By the way I hate those smily/sad faces on an alignment report!!

The laser folks say that there is no concern about SAG, but I have done several alignment jobs where this was a real issue.

Good luck, and keep the beam out of your eyes and on target.

Walt