Laser system ensures more precise belt alignment

The SKF BeltAlign precision laser tool achieves belt alignment accuracy by placing a laser transmitter/receptor magnetically within the groove of each pulley being aligned

Misaligned pulleys and belts account for premature damage to both the belts and the bearings.

To counter this, SKF has now launched a precision laser tool, called BeltAlign, to ensure perfect alignment.

Most belt arrangements are aligned using trial and error adjustments, or at best, one of the mechanical tools that enable the face or edge of the pulley to be aligned.

However, neither of these methods is satisfactory for modern, high-speed precision machinery.

The SKF BeltAlign achieves greater accuracy by placing a laser transmitter/receptor magnetically within the groove of each pulley being aligned.

SKF opted to fit its devices within the pulley groove as greater accuracy can be obtained by placing them exactly where the belt runs.

Moreover, this method ensures equally accurate alignment, even when the pulleys are of different diameter or width.

The SKF BeltAlign comes with two laser units and a range of V-guides to suit various pulley widths.

Once the correctly sized V-guide has been selected, the tool is simply attached to the pulley by its powerful magnets.

Each unit projects a laser beam onto the other to gauge the degree of misalignment and also its nature, vertical, horizontal, parallel or a combination of these.

There is no need for special training to use the system and, armed with the precise misalignment data, the operator can make accurate adjustments very quickly, minimising machine downtime.

The BeltAlign tool is powered by two AA size batteries and is packed in its own rugged carrying case for easy portability.

The new tool is part of SKF's comprehensive range of alignment solutions and complements the company's other laser alignment equipment such as the TMEA shaft alignment tool.

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