Service · Laser Alignment
Laser Shaft Alignment API 686
Precision laser shaft alignment for industrial generator-turbine coupling under API 686. Thermal growth compensation, runout correction, alignment optimization. Multi-OEM. Reduces vibration + extends bearing life.
Service overview
Laser Shaft Alignment API 686 — what we deliver
Misalignment between rotating shafts is the #2 cause of bearing failure in industrial generators (after lubrication issues). Under API 686 Recommended Practice + ISO 7919, precision laser alignment with thermal growth compensation eliminates this failure mode while reducing operating vibration by 30-50%. TEMISA Power Gen executes laser alignment using SKF + Pruftechnik + Fixturlaser equipment with thermal growth modeling for turbine-generator trains.
Workshop capabilities
Technical scope
- Precision laser shaft alignment with ±0.05 mm radial tolerance (API 686)
- Thermal growth compensation modeling (cold-to-hot offset calculation)
- Turbine-generator train alignment (multi-coupling configurations)
- Soft foot detection + correction under ISO 7919-2
- Coupling runout measurement + shim selection
- Pre-alignment + post-alignment vibration FFT comparison
- Documented report with before/after alignment maps + bolt torque values
- Integration with overhaul scope or standalone field service
Applications
Where we apply this service
Post-overhaul realignment
After major overhaul, generator + turbine + coupling components are reassembled — laser alignment is mandatory step before recommissioning.
Vibration root cause correction
When vibration FFT analysis shows 2×RPM peak indicating misalignment, laser alignment is corrective action. Typical vibration reduction: 30-50%.
New installation commissioning
New generator + turbine installation requires laser alignment before initial start-up under IEEE 115 commissioning protocol.
Post-thermal-event realignment
After abnormal thermal events (hot start, rapid temperature change), alignment may shift due to differential thermal expansion — re-verification recommended.
Frequently asked questions
What alignment tolerance is acceptable under API 686?
API 686 Recommended Practice specifies alignment tolerance based on coupling type + RPM. Typical generator-turbine coupling at 1800-3600 RPM: parallel offset < 0.05 mm + angular offset < 0.05 mm/100 mm. Tighter tolerance < 0.025 mm for high-speed turbomachinery > 5000 RPM. Loose-coupled installations (gear coupling) tolerate slightly higher misalignment than rigid couplings. We measure + report alignment in both cold + hot conditions (after operating thermal stabilization).
How long does precision laser alignment take?
Typical field service: 1-2 days per coupling for single generator-turbine alignment under stable temperature conditions. Multi-coupling trains (gas turbine + steam turbine + generator) require 3-5 days for complete train alignment. Time includes: setup of laser equipment + initial measurement + thermal stabilization period + shim adjustment + final verification + documentation. For new installations or post-thermal-event, plan additional 1 day for hot alignment verification after stabilization.
Why is thermal growth important in alignment?
Generator + turbine components expand thermally as they heat from ambient to operating temperature (typically 60-120°C above ambient). Different materials (cast iron casing vs steel rotor) expand at different rates. If cold alignment is set to zero offset, hot alignment will have offset due to differential thermal growth. Proper API 686 alignment requires modeling the thermal growth + setting cold offset that compensates → resulting in zero offset at operating temperature. Skipping thermal growth modeling guarantees misalignment after thermal stabilization.
Other services
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Contact
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CFE LAPEM W4200-12 · ISO 9001:2015 · IEEE / IEC