Tools for successful bearing application

For instance, it is estimated that misaligned shafts can cause up to 50% of all machine failures, affecting reliability, seal couplings and belts. Additionally, incorrect alignment adversely affects energy consumption. For this reason, SKF has launched the first of a new generation of shaft alignment tools. The TKSA 11 is the only instrument of its type to feature inductive proximity sensors, and an innovative and easy to use app for smartphones and tablets. It's an ideal entry level tool for maintenance and production engineers to carry out shaft alignment quickly, simply and accurately on motor, fan, pump and compressor applications amongst many others. Shaft alignment has traditionally been carried out using laser tools, dial gauges or simply by line of sight and a straight edge. Laser tools can be expensive, whilst dial indicators are accurate but difficult to use, and line of sight methods are inaccurate. The TKSA 11 incorporates two inductive proximity sensors within a compact and robust electronic measuring unit, which is attached to the moveable machine side, on shafts or coupling sleeves, with a reference bar being attached to the fixed machine side. With an easy to use app, the user is led through the measurement and correction of shaft misalignment, while a live view of the measuring unit and horizontal machine position facilitate accurate alignment. The technology can be used in bright sunlight and enables high measurement accuracy regardless of the distances between the mounting brackets. This makes it ideal for aligning narrow couplings or for use in confined spaces. Optional extension rods and extension chains are also available to use with large couplings and shafts, further extending its application range. The measuring unit connects to an iOS smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, with the app exploiting the computing and display performance of the mobile device to provide intuitive alignment using the live view and animations. The easy to use interface has clear on-screen instructions and helps users perform quick alignment tasks, with the option of a report with signature and a picture available for export as a pdf. Meanwhile, Schaeffler has developed an angular measuring system suitable for direct-driven, highly dynamic, high precision rotary axes in machine tools. The system incorporates an inductive (absolute) angular measuring system integrated in a rotary table bearing. The SRM measuring system combines high measuring speed and measurement accuracy with a reduced design envelope and increased robustness. The system is insensitive to contamination (e.g. lubricants and coolants), offers a rotary axis with an open centre (freeing up space in the centre of the machine) and reduces alignment errors. With fewer mechanical components, the system is also easy to replace and maintain. The YRTSMA bearings from Schaeffler can be fitted to the rotary axes as an alternative to optical angular measuring systems. YRTSMA bearings are available with bore diameters from 150mm up to 1030mm. By fitting the YRTSMA bearing to the rotary axis, information about the absolute angle is available immediately after switching on the machine.