Effect of Misalignment on the Performance of Machine
Q. What happens, If leveling and alignment of two shafts of directly coupled machines are not matched?
OR What is the effect of misalignment on the performance of machine ?
The shaft, pulleys, couplings of driven and driving machine need proper alignment. If it is not ensured the following are the effects.
Direct coupled drives : For direct coupling drives the misalignment during installation give rise to:
- Increased loading on bearings.
- Excessive vibrations in driving and driven machines.
- Increased stresses on couplings and shafts. The final effects of this is bend or spring in the shaft, worn out bearings and overloading of driving machine causing its failure.
Indirectly Coupled Drives : For indirect coupled drives like rope and v-belt and chain drives. The misalignment during installation give rise to the following adverse effects.
- The life of rope, belt or chain is shortened.
- Excessive end thrust is imposed on the driving machine.
- Produces destructive vibrations Increased noise level.
- Bent shafts.
- Worn out bearings.
- All these leads to early wear and tear of both the driven and driving machines.