The X-Series™ X-880 5-Axis Laser Shaft Alignment System from Hamar Laser sets a new standard for precision and efficiency in shaft alignment. Engineered for demanding industrial applications, the X-880 features cutting-edge 5-axis measurement capabilities that delivers unparalleled accuracy and repeatability, making it the ideal choice for industries with demanding alignment requirements. From multi-coupling applications to heavy-duty machinery, the X-880 provides the precision needed to reduce maintenance costs and ensures optimal machine performance.
The X-880 is the ultimate alignment solution for industries that demand superior accuracy, durability, and efficiency. From complex multi-coupling systems to heavy-duty rotating machinery, this system delivers dependable performance that maximizes uptime and reduces operational costs.
The X-880 will meet every expectation:
The X-880 5-Axis Laser Shaft Alignment System from Hamar Laser is designed to deliver superior precision and versatility for complex industrial alignment applications. Setting a new standard in alignment technology, the X-880 features a robust Build Your Own (BYO) system, enabling users to tailor the equipment’s applications and capabilities to meet their unique operational demands—an option unmatched by any other brand. This flexible, customizable approach not only enhances measurement accuracy and repeatability but also makes the X-880 an ideal solution for maintenance professionals seeking to reduce machine downtime and maintenance costs.
Engineered for high-performance environments, the X-880 combines rugged, wireless IP67-rated alignment heads with advanced 5-axis measurement capabilities, delivering consistent and reliable results even in harsh conditions. The system’s intuitive Easy-Guide™ software streamlines the alignment process, providing step-by-step guidance that reduces training time and minimizes the risk of human error. Live Move Mode offers real-time data feedback, allowing technicians to make accurate, on-the-spot adjustments, while automated calculation of correction values speeds up the entire alignment workflow.
Designed to optimize machine reliability and extend asset lifespan, the X-880 excels at aligning complex machinery, including turbines, compressors, gearboxes, and multi-component drive systems. Its ability to deliver real-time alignment data in a straightforward, easy-to-interpret format makes it an indispensable tool for achieving precise alignment while maintaining operational efficiency. Additionally, comprehensive digital reporting supports data management, audit compliance, and quality control, making the X-880 an essential tool for demanding industrial environments.
From its ultra-precise sensors to its intuitive Easy-Guide™ software, the X-880 is built to streamline complex alignment tasks while ensuring exceptional measurement accuracy every time.
±12° angular range for fast alignments.
This advanced technology delivers an impressive ±12º of angular range. By using two unidirectional laser beams (2 lasers, 1 direction), it eliminates the rough-in challenges associated with traditional “crossfire” systems (2 lasers, 2 directions), making machine alignment significantly faster and easier, especially over long distances. The result: quicker alignments, more completed jobs, and satisfied managers.
Measure instantly from 2 in. to 30 ft.
Unlike traditional “crossfire” systems that require time-consuming rough-in before taking data, our Dual-Beam™ technology, with two unidirectional laser beams and a single 33 mm sensor—eliminates that step entirely. It delivers a consistent ±5 degrees of measuring range from 2 inches to 30 feet (50 mm to 10 m), far beyond the 5-foot (1.5 m) limitations of most crossfire kits. Just mount the brackets, laser, and target, and start aligning immediately.
PSD sensor cuts shim calc time in half
When it comes to critical machinery, only top-tier accuracy will do, and the X-880 delivers. Featuring super-linear PSD technology and 500-point sensor linearization, the system achieves an error rate of less than 0.15%, up to 15 times better than competing systems. This level of precision ensures consistently reliable alignments, more accurate shim calculations, and fewer repeat attempts. Shim Once, Move Once™.
Maintains precision at every distance.
With traditional “crossfire” laser systems, angular resolution decreases with distance, ironically making short-coupled machines the most problematic. Hamar’s Dual-Beam™ technology maintains consistently high angular resolution from just 2 in. (50 mm) to 30 ft. (10 m), delivering up to 15x greater resolution than competing systems.
On-screen help and training built right in.
Our Couple6™ software with Easy-Guide™ navigation features intuitive, high-quality screens that guide users through every alignment step. Plus, built-in manuals and training videos make it so easy to use that many customers start using the X-880 right out of the box!
Free updates. No hidden costs. Ever.
Our 5-Year Unconditional Warranty means just that, no hidden fees or conditions! If there’s no abuse-related damage, we’ll repair or replace your system if something goes wrong. Plus, unlike other systems, we never charge for software maintenance, updates are free for the life of the product!
No two alignment challenges are the same, and with the X-880, you don’t have to treat them that way. Choose from a variety of advanced alignment methods tailored to your equipment type and real-world operating conditions.
Aligns two rotating machines connected by a single coupling, measuring and correcting both angular and offset misalignments between the shafts to ensure optimal alignment
Industry’s only vertical alignment system featuring live graphical displays of motor alignment and shim values for every bolt hole position, specifically designed for flange-mounted vertical motors.
Allows locking and unlocking various combinations of the movable and stationary machine feet to evaluate their impact on the alignment solution. Graphics and shim values update automatically.
Aligns the shafts of two rotating machines connected by a spacer or jack shaft, ensuring their rotational centerlines are perfectly collinear. This alignment method offers seven different configuration options.
Collects data from 3 to 10 machines and calculates the minimal shim and move adjustments needed, ensuring all shafts are collinear and correctly aligned across the entire machine train.
Apply thermal expansion or contraction to the rotating equipment. 3 methods available for thermal compensation: coupler offset, foot values, and temperature change.
Simple, on-screen guided procedure for checking Soft Foot, an issue that can lead to misalignment. Step #3 alignment workflow, it pinpoints the problematic foot and determines the required shim correction.
No matter the machine configuration or space limitations, the X-880 provides powerful data collection tools that eliminate guesswork and accelerate the alignment process with greater precision.
Offers 8 selectable clock positions, simply rotate the laser or target to the desired position and click record. A minimum of three points spaced 90 degrees apart is required.
Begin at any clock position and sweep to any other point with a minimum rotation of 60 degrees. The system automatically calculates results when a sweep is completed.
Allows starting and stopping at any point within the rotation circle multiple times, ideal for situations where obstructions block the laser beam or prevent a full rotation.
Allows the laser/target to be rotated to any clock position in the sweep, capturing a data point at that specific location. Also suitable for performing uncoupled alignments.
Simplifies data collection—just rotate the laser to any clock position and sweep the target past it. The system automatically captures the data point, making the process fast and effortless.
Engineered for peak performance and durability, the X-880 delivers cutting-edge tools and capabilities that simplify complex shaft alignment tasks and enhance productivity in the most demanding industrial environments.
Click on each icon below to view more information.
Measurement results are automatically evaluated against a built-in tolerance table featuring two levels; Excellent and Acceptable. Alignment conditions are clearly displayed using intuitive color-coding: Green for Excellent, Yellow for Acceptable, and Red for Out of Tolerance. Tolerance values are based on engineering standards developed by industry expert Heinz Bloch, PE.
Enables users to input and save dimensions, tolerances, and coupling types for commonly aligned motor setups. Previously saved alignment files can be reopened to auto-populate key parameters, including Thermal Growth Offset, for faster setup. Streamlines the process: mount components, load the file, perform a soft foot check, collect data, and apply moves or shims as needed.
Allows the screen view to be rotated for correct machine orientation based on the user’s position. Also functions in Zoom mode on the Windows tablet. Originally introduced by Hamar Laser in 1992.
Evaluates data quality and identifies signs of potential bearing wear. Since 2006, our Couple6 alignment software has featured a measurement quality indicator, a series of color-changing dots that reflect data accuracy. Note: This analysis is presented in a safe 2D format, unlike 3D views which can be unsafe to interpret. The emerging trend of using 3D scanning visuals is discouraged, as it can distract users, consume 75% of the screen, and does not enhance the alignment process.
Our Couple6 alignment software produces color reports that can be saved as PDFs and emailed directly from the tablet or Windows PC when connected to the internet.
Store machine data and files, including plant location, machine names, tolerances, and dimensions, all saved dynamically for easy reuse and templating.
Digital signatures on shaft alignment reports ensure data integrity, authenticity, and accountability. They verify the results are accurate and unaltered, support regulatory compliance and audits, and clearly document who performed the work and when. This builds trust and professionalism in the alignment process.
Allows the end user to adjust the recommended tolerance settings to any value needed for their specific application. This flexibility ensures alignment meets the precise standards required by the asset OEM or accommodates unique operational preferences, helping to optimize machinery performance and reliability.
Vertical Machine Real-Time Move Screen — Features realistic graphics with live updates of values as adjustments are made. Displays real-time data and visuals during corrections for vertical machines, allowing quick changes to the reference point with a simple touch. Ideal for vertical equipment adjustable at the flange (non-spigot mounted).
Save up to 99 sets of alignment data, complete with detailed information such as date/time, data collection method, sweep angle, and number of points. Users can choose a single dataset for Step 5 (Shim/Move) or average multiple sets for improved accuracy—ideal for machines on unstable bases or with mechanical looseness. Individual data sets can also be archived to the History table with an assigned category from a dropdown menu for easy tracking.
Includes a built-in manual within the Couple6 alignment software that automatically directs you to the exact page corresponding to your current step in the alignment process. You can also easily access the full table of contents to quickly navigate and choose any section you need, providing seamless guidance right when you need it.
The X-880 extends its core alignment capabilities with optional advanced geometric applications, including straightness, flatness, and timed data recording, providing added precision and adaptability for complex or large-scale machine configurations.
The Manual/Timed Recording App offers both single-point and timed recording modes, capturing data that can be easily exported in Excel format for streamlined analysis. Reports include minimum and maximum values, graphical plots, and comprehensive data tables for clear insight.
Flatness measurements can be performed using our A-987 bases or the higher-precision L-730 Leveling Laser paired with the A-1519-2.4BT Target to evaluate sole plates and other critical surfaces. Couple6 software computes a Best-Fit plane to determine overall flatness, with reports displaying TIR values, graphical plots, and detailed data tables for comprehensive documentation.
Straightness measurements can be performed using our A-987 Bases along with shaft alignment lasers to evaluate the vertical and horizontal straightness of rails and other surfaces. The Couple6 software calculates a Best-Fit line to determine overall straightness, with detailed reports that include TIR values, graphical representations, and comprehensive data tables.
The L-790 Dual-Beam™ Laser delivers long-range accuracy with pinpoint-safe beams, ambient light correction, and rugged IP67 waterproof housing. Designed for larger machines and longer spans, it’s ideal for demanding alignment applications.
The T-1290 Wireless 5-Axis Target offers ultra-high resolution and accuracy for critical shaft alignment tasks. Built for performance and durability, it features Bluetooth connectivity, a waterproof housing, and an extended measuring range in a compact design.
The A-980 quick-connect brackets are built from stainless steel for excellent durability in harsh environments. Designed for fast setup and a secure fit across a wide range of shaft diameters, they include multiple post lengths and a magnet-secured chain to protect sensitive components.
Purpose-built for demanding industrial environments, our rugged tablet is preloaded with Couple6™ and built to perform in the field, rain or shine.
| Laser/Target Unit Size | 4.2x3.3x2.2 in. (107x84x55 mm) |
|---|---|
| Housing Material | Impact resistant plastic |
| Detector Type and Size | 2-axis super-linear PSD 33 mm (V) x 13 mm (H) provides 4 continuously updating alignment axes (or 2 alignment planes). |
| Ambient Light Protection | Via blinking-laser algorithm embedded in all Hamar Laser targets. |
| Target Measurement Resolution | Offset: 0.00005 mm (.00002 in) Angular: 0.007 mm/m (.00008 in/ft) |
| Target Measurement Error | Offset: < 0.15% Angular: < 0.75% |
| Angular Sensor Range | ± 12° (± .204 in/in or 20.4 mm/100 mm). For values > 5° use only for rough alignment. |
| Laser Type | 650 nm Unidirectional Dual-Beam laser with horizontal adjustment < 0.9mW |
| Wireless Communication | Bluetooth® Class 1 - 2.4-5 GHz plus backup cable |
| Wireless Range | Up to 98.43 ft. (30 m) |
| Ruggedized Display Platform | Rugged 10" tablet, IP65, MIL-STD-810G, 2.0 GHz., 8GB RAM/256GB HD. |
| Rotation Sensor (5th axis) | Accelerometer Resolution: 0.1° Accuracy: ± 1°. Measurement accuracy not affected by rotation sensor accuracy. |
| Environmental | IP67 (laser & target). IP65 (tablet). |
| Data Storage Capacity | Virtually Unlimited |
| Operating/Storage Temperature | Laser/Target: 5° to 140° F (-15° to 60° C) Tablet - AC Mode: -4° to 140° F (-20° to 60° C) Tablet - Battery Mode: 32° to 113° F (0° to 45° C) |
| Bracket Set | Covers 1-12 in. (25.4 - 304.8 mm) diameter shafts. Comes with 4, 6, 8, 12 in. (101.6, 152.4, 203.2, 304.8 mm) posts |
| Application Range | 33 ft. (10 m) between laser and target |
| Battery Life Target | 15 hours continuous use with Bluetooth® — Continuous charge with backup cable. Target can be plugged into power source during use. Low battery status indicator for both T-1290 Target and PC. |
| Battery Life Laser | 150+ hours continuous use. Blinking LED indicates low battery status |
| Battery Life Tablets | 8 hours (normal use) |
| AC Battery Charger (Laser and Target) | 110V to 220V with U.S. or international adapters. Cable also works as a wireless backup cable and firmware updater. |
Legend: √ = Included • = Optional N/A = Not Applicable
| System Features | X-660 | X-770 PRO | X-880 | X-990 PRO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Type | Dual-Fan | Dual-Fan | Dual-Beam | Dual-Fan |
| Type of Sensor | 1-Axis PSD | 1-Axis PSD | 2-Axis PSD | 2-Axis PSD |
| Sensor Size | (2) 20x1 mm | (2) 20x1 mm | 33x13 mm | 33x13 mm |
| Bluetooth/Wireless Capabilities | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Laser/Target IP Classification | IP67 | IP67 | IP67 | IP67 |
| Laser to Target Max Range | 15 ft/4.6 m | 15 ft/4.6 m | 33 ft/10 m | 33 ft/10 m |
| Battery Life for Laser/Target | 15 hours | 15 hours | 15 hours | 15 hours |
| Rugged Windows® Tablet | • | • | • | • |
| Build Your Own (BYO) Capability | √ | N/A | √ | N/A |
| Professional App License w/Geo Apps | N/A | √ | N/A | √ |
| Detailed PDF Report | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Aluminum V-Bracket with 6 in (152.4 mm) diameter chain set | √ | √ | NA | NA |
| Stainless Steel V-Bracket with 6 in (152.4 mm) diameter chain set | • | • | √ | √ |
| Extra Chain Set/Diameter Sizes | • | • | • | • |
| Standard Threaded 6 in. (152.4 mm) Posts | √ | √ | N/A | N/A |
| Standard Support 4 in. (101.6 mm) and 8 in. (203.2 mm) Posts | • | • | √ | √ |
| Extra Post Sets/Sizes | • | • | • | • |
| Magnetic Shaft Brackets (2) | • | • | • | • |
| Offset Bracket | • | • | • | • |
| Non-Rotating Shaft Bracket Assemblies | • | • | • | • |
| Geo Magnetic Swivel Bases | • | √ | • | √ |
| Alignment Methods | X-660 | X-770 PRO | X-880 | X-990 PRO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Horizontal Alignments | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Vertical Flange Mount Alignments | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Spacer (Jack Shaft) Alignments | • | √ | • | √ |
| Uncoupled Alignments | N/A | N/A | • | • |
| Bolt Bound/Base Bound Alignments | • | √ | √ | √ |
| Cardan Shaft Alignments | N/A | N/A | • | • |
| Machine Train Alignments (3 Machines) | • | √ | √ | √ |
| Machine Train Alignments (Up To 10 Machines) | • | • | • | • |
| Data Taking Methods | X-660 | X-770 PRO | X-880 | X-990 PRO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Clock™ Data Taking Mode | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Auto Sweep™ Data Taking Mode | • | √ | √ | √ |
| Arc Mode™ Data Taking Mode | • | √ | • | √ |
| Point Mode™ Data Taking Mode | • | √ | • | √ |
| Uncoupled Swipe™ Data Taking Mode | N/A | N/A | • | √ |
| Geometric Measurement Applications | X-660 | X-770 PRO | X-880 | X-990 PRO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual/Timed Data Recorder/Analyzer | • | √ | • | √ |
| Flatness Data Recorder/Analyzer | • | √ | • | √ |
| Straightness Data Recorder/Analyzer | • | √ | • | √ |
| L-730 Single Scan Precision Laser | • | • | • | • |
| Single Axis Wireless Scan Target (For L-730) | • | • | • | • |
| Additional System Information | X-660 | X-770 PRO | X-880 | X-990 PRO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Year Calibration Requirement | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 5-Year Unconditional Warranty | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Angular Sensor Range | ±8º | ±8º | ±12º | ±12º |
| Preset & User-Defined Tolerances | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Real-Time Unit (Imperial/Metric) Switching | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Soft Foot Check | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Thermal Growth Compensation - Foot Values | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Thermal Growth Compensation - Coupler Offset | • | √ | • | √ |
| Thermal Growth Compensation - By Temperature | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Work in Progress…
Couple6 creates a project folder for all alignment projects. This allows you to save project files for each machine in a unique folder allowing you to track machine alignments. You can save a machine setup as a template to open for other machines with the same dimensions. Also, you can click on Review Saved Projects to review a saved project. Enter your company information to be included on the reports.
Re-Measure Button – Click here to go back to Step 4 and Re-Measure the alignment to confrim it is in tolerance. This is very important!
Home Button – Click here to go to the main menu page to switch Steps or to Print a report.
Couple6 gives you lots of options to view the motor graphics in Step 5. A convenient on-screen menu allows you to make this selection very quickly. Click on this icon to popup a menu to choose various changes to the display, such as Coupling Zoom, Bolt Bound™ view, etc. See below for details.
Screen Menu Popup
Click here to bring you back to Duo-Plane™ Mode.
Click here to view the Horizontal Axis for Bolt Bound™
Click here to use the very popular Flip-It™ feature to flip the motor image if you are on the wrong side.
Click here to see the Coupling Zoom feature.
Click here to view the Horizontal Axis for Bolt Bound™
Click here to turn on/off the Thermal Growth values from Step 1.
Move values for the motor are automatically calculated when entering Step 5. The values automatically update as you move the motor in the horizontal axis. Arrows also tell you which direction the motor needs to go. Up arrows mean to move the motor away from you and down arrows mean to move it toward you. Once you see the bolt heads appear and the arrows disappear you are done!
Horizontal Gap (Angle) and Horizontal Offset values update continuously in Step 5. A red display means it’s out of tolerance, yellow means it’s in Acceptable tolerance and green means it’s in Excellent tolerance. A positive offset value means the motor is to the right of the driven unit (with the coupling on the left in top view) and a positive angle or gap means the back of the motor is further right than the front.
For the Horizontal Axis, Couple6 uses dotted lines and bolt holes to show you where the motor’s feet need to be moved to be in alignment. Once the motor is aligned, Couple6 puts “bolts” into the holes to indicate you are done! Time to take a break!
Shim values for the motor are automatically calculated when entering Step 5. The values are locked so you don’t have to remember them but can be unlocked by clicking on the lock icon if you want to see them update. Arrows also tell you which direction the motor needs to go. Down arrows mean to take out shims and up means to add them
Here is our unique Duo–Plane™ Live Move Screen using the T-1290 5-Axis target from the X-880/X-990. It shows all 4 alignment axes (2 measurement planes) updating simultaneously. The displays are color coded to indicate if the alignment is in or out of tolerance. Red means out of tolerance, yellow means it’s in Acceptable tolerance and green means it’s in Excellent Tolerance. The motor graphics move and also update as you align the motor.
Now if you find yourself on the other side of the motor and want to see the graphics appear as you see it then you can utilize our very popular Flip-It™ feature. Simply click on the menu icon and select Flip-It™ and the images flip over – see the image below! No more turning the screen upside down to match your view!
Click on the View Mode button to switch the Step 5 Move screen into Coupling Mode which zooms in on the coupling and shows the alignment at the coupling. This is especially useful for new users of lasers who are used to indicator-based methods and working at the coupling. The graphics automatically update with each move of the motor so you can watch the 2 coupling halves come into alignment as you move it!
Click on this popup to change from Gap Mode (top graphic) to Angular Mode. The units for angular mode are inches/inch, inches/ft, mm/100 mm or mm/M and the units for Gap Mode are inches or mm. After hitting close, the V & H angular displays automatically change to the new format and the label updates, too.
Here is the Vertical angular axis in Gap Mode.
Here is the Vertical angular axis in Angle Mode.
Vertical Gap (Angle) and Vertical Offset values update continuously in Step 5. A red display means it’s out of tolerance, yellow means it’s in Acceptable tolerance and green means it’s in Excellent tolerance. A positive offset value means the motor is high and a positive angle or gap means the back of the motor is higher than the front.
The coupling icons next to the data displays show the direction of the misalignment at the coupling and update as you move or shim the motor! You can also zoom in on the coupling to show them in the live display area of the screen.
click on a set of data and if the alignment results are out of tolerance, then click on the Shim Icon to go to the 5-Axis (2 measurement plane) live move screen in Step 5.
Click on Add to History and Couple6 will save the set of data in the History Table. Up to 50 sets of measurement data (from multiple sets of alignment files for the same machine) can be added to the history table. You can assign the measurement condition to each set of alignment, such as: As Found, After Move, At Hot Temperature, etc. The date and time of measurement are saved along with other important information.
Scroll to the right and the History Table will show the Data Span, Number of Points, Coupling Mode, Data Taking Method, and whether it was in or out of tolerance.
Clicking on a set of data in the Repeatability Table and clicking Results opens up the Measurement Results popup, showing the alignment with the tolerances applied to the data. Red means the data is out of tolerance, yellow means the data is within Acceptable tolerances and green means the data is within Excellent tolerances. Coupling graphics show which direction the motor is misaligned. The shim/move values are also shown for the front and back feet.
Uncoupled SwipeMode, is the best uncoupled data-taking mode on the market, making it extremely easy to take uncoupled alignment data. To take data, simply rotate the laser to any “clock” position, leave it there and slowly rotate or “swipe” the target by the laser and Couple6 will record multiple data points and save the best one based upon a proprietary algorithm. Continue on until your data quality is good.
When you are done, click the Done button and Couple6 will calculate the alignment results and popup the Measurement Results screen. To learn more about UncoupledSwipeMode check out this Alignment Byte™
Couple6 is always trying to make your life easier. Here we have on-screen graphics that show you how to use Uncoupled Mode. Leave the laser at any clock “position” and swipe the target by to record the data point.
The Measurement Results window displays the alignment results and asks whether to Accept, Reject or Repeat the data. Coupling graphics also tell which direction the coupling is misaligned.
Click Accept to accept the data and save the data in the Repeatability Table. Click on Repeat to accept the data, save it in the Repeatability Table and go back to Uncoupled Mode to take another set of data. Click Reject to delete the data and start over
Auto Clock™is the basic data-taking mode in Couple6 used with our entry-level system, the X-660. It is very user-friendly and offers up to 8-data points, unlike the competitions “clock modes” that only offer 3 data points. It is an established fact that more data points means more accurate alignment data. More accurate alignment data means quicker alignments and more “coffee breaks”!.
To use Auto Clock™, just rotate to any “clock” position and hit the Record button or press the spacebar and Couple6 will record the data point. You need at least 3 points to get a valid set of data but at least 5 points is recommended and 8 points will give the best results, especially for high-accuracy applications.
When you are done taking data, click the Done button and Couple6 will calculate the alignment results and popup the Measurement Results screen.
The Measurement Results window displays the alignment results and asks whether to Accept, Reject or Repeat the data. Coupling graphics also tell which direction the coupling is misaligned.
Click Accept to accept the data and save the data in the Repeatability Table. Click on Repeat to accept the data, save it in the Repeatability Table and go back to Auto Clock™ Mode to take another set of data. Click Reject to delete the data and start over
Point Mode is yet another data-taking method that ensures all challenging applications have a solution in Couple6. It is used where you can only take single points of data, typically when there are high levels vibrations present that affect repeatability of our sweep data-taking modes. The data is averaged to dampen out fluctuations caused by vibration and the averaging can be adjusted for high-vibration environments.
Using Point Mode is extremely easy: just rotate the laser/target to any clock position, wait a second or 2 for the data to stop updating and press the spacebar or click Record. Continue until you have the data quality that you want (again the data points are color coded for quality).
When you are done taking data, click the Done button and Couple6 will calculate the alignment results and popup the Measurement Results screen. To learn more about PointMode check this Alignment Byte™ out.
The Measurement Results window displays the alignment results and asks whether to Accept, Reject or Repeat the data. Coupling graphics also tell which direction the coupling is misaligned.
Click Accept to accept the data and save the data in the Repeatability Table. Click on Repeat to accept the data, save it in the Repeatability Table and go back to Point Mode to take another set of data. Click Reject to delete the data and start over
For those applications where parts of the driven unit are preventing you from taking a full rotationset of data (360 degrees), Arc Mode™is a great data-taking mode to get more data and better results. Simply hit the start button and start to rotate the shafts (just like Auto Sweep™)andArc Mode collects data at a rate of 16 readings per second. When the laser/target reach an area where the laser is blocked, just hit the Stop button and when you get beyond the obstruction, hit the Start button to resume recording data.
It is a proven fact that the more rotational data you can get (i.e. 180–360 degrees), the more accurate your alignment results will be. So instead of only having a short arc of data points (say 90 degree arc), Arc Mode™ allows you to get multiple arcs of data giving you more accurate results.
When you are done taking data, click the Done button and Couple6 will calculate the results and popup the Measurement Results screen.
The Measurement Results window displays the alignment results and asks whether to Accept, Reject or Repeat the data. Coupling graphics also tell which direction the coupling is misaligned.
Click Accept to keep the data and save the data in the Repeatability Table. Click on Repeat to accept the data, save it in the Repeatability Table and go back to Arc Mode to take another set of data. Click Reject to delete the data and start over.
By far, the most popular data-taking mode, Auto Sweep™ makes taking shaft alignment data extremely easy. Simply start rotating the shafts and Couple6 automatically starts recording hundreds of data points at a rate of 16 readings per second, providing the most accurate alignment data in the industry! Most of our competitors only offer 3 points of data, which is not enough! It is an established fact that more data points mean more accurate alignment results. Higher accuracy means quicker alignments and more “coffee breaks”! Stop rotating and Couple6 senses this, calculates the alignment data and pops up the Measurement Results window. To learn more about Auto Sweep™ check this Alignment Byte™ out.
The Measurements Results window displays the alignment results and asks whether to Accept, Reject or Repeat the data. Coupling graphics also tell which direction the coupling is misaligned.
Click Accept to accept the data and save the data in the Repeatability Table. Click on Repeat to accept the data, save it in the Repeatability Table and go back to AutoSweep™ to take another set of data. Click Reject to delete the data and start over.
After hitting Accept to save the set of data, Couple6 automatically puts it in the Repeatability Table where you can see the V & H Offsets and V & H Gaps or Angles (go to Settings to change this) and the data of the measurement. You can save up to 20 sets of data in one table.
Click on a set of data to highlight it and hit the Results button to open a window to view the alignment data with tolerances applied to see if it is in or out of tolerance. If you click on the check box on the left for multiple sets of data, Couple6 will average them and use the averaged data for the move screen. You can also add a set of data to the History Table.
Couple6 provides 3-5 axes of live alignment data in our Step 4 -Measure Misalignment screen.
This is the Rotation Axis (3rd or 5th axis) Live Display and Status Bar. It shows the continuously updating rotational position of the target. Zero degrees means the target is located at 12:00, 90 degrees means 3:00. The data taking status is also shown here.
Here the user is rotating the shafts a little too fast using AutoSweep™ or Arc Mode™ and Couple6 is recommending to slow it down. While it will still take data, it is better to rotate slowly to ensure data quality.
Here the user is rotating the shafts much too fast using AutoSweep™ or Arc Mode™, which could affect repeatability and data quality. While Couple6 will still take data in at this speed, it is strongly recommended that you check repeatability to ensure the data is good.
Here the user is recording data at the proper speed in Auto Sweep™ or Arc Mode™
Here are the 4 axes (T-1290) live alignment data. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the raw data while recording to make sure no bad data points get into the data set. This can also be used to do a “poor man’s” uncoupled alignment using Point Mode or Auto Clock™
Here the Horizontal Offset is too far from zero and Couple6 changes the display to red to warn you to try to get the horizontal offset closer. It will still take data but it is always best to start near zero to maximize the data-taking range.
When using the main data-taking mode, Auto Sweep™, Couple6 displays each data point recorded in a color-coded display ring around the motor image. Red means there is not enough data to get good alignment results, blue means data quality is good, light blue means very good and green means the data quality is excellent. For the best repeatability or high-accuracy applications, very good or excellent data quality is highly recommended but a minimum of 60 degrees of data is all that is needed.
After recording Foot #2 soft-foot results, Couple6 automatically advances to Foot #3. With Bolt #3 tight, hit Record, loosen it, and hit Record again. As before, Couple6 calculates the difference between the 2 data points and if out of tolerance will flag it as red.
Notice now that the difference between readings for Bolt #3 is now red, indicating it is out of tolerance. Again a message pops up reminding you to tight Bolt #3.
After recording Foot #3 soft-foot results, Couple6 automatically advances to Foot #4. With the bolt at Foot #4 tight, hit Record, loosen it, and hit Record again. As before, Couple6 calculates the difference between the 2 data points and if out of tolerance will flag it as red.
Now Couple6 finds the foot with the bigger difference between tight and loose and it recommends the amount of shim to add to fix the problem. A shim icon tells you it’s time to add shim and again the on-screen instructions tell you what to do. Simple!
Using our unique Flip-It™ feature, you can double tap the screen and the motor’s shaft/coupling will flip to the other side. So if you are on the wrong side of the machine you don’t have to turn the tablet upside down! Did someone say, “Simple”?
After recording Foot #1 soft-foot results, Couple6 automatically advances to Foot #2. With the bolt for Foot #2 tight, hit Record, loosen it, and hit Record again. As before, Couple6 calculates the difference between the 2 data points and if out of tolerance will flag it as red.
Notice the bolt icon at Foot #2 has changed showing that Couple6 is expecting a “loose” reading.
Follow the on-screen instructions and make sure all bolts are tight! Then hit Record with the bolt for Foot #1 tight, loosen it, and hit Record again. Couple6 calculates the difference between the 2 data points and if out of tolerance will flag it as red. Green means it’s in tolerance. After taking the tight reading, a message reminds you to tighten the foot. When you hit OK it automatically takes you to Foot #2
When the horizontal offset value is not within +/- .040″ (1 mm) of zero, a Red Arrow displays on the screen to show you which direction to turn the adjustment wheel.
As the Horizontal Offset Value nears zero, the arrow color changes to yellow to indicate that’s “good enough” and disappears altogether if it’s within .010″ of zero.
Offsets – With the X-880/X-990, Couple6 shows live displays in the Vertical and Horizontal axes. Values should be less than .040″ (1 mm) for maximum offset measurement range. For the X-660/X-770, only the Vertical axis is shown.
Angular – With the X-880/X-990, Couple6 shows live displays in the Vertical and Horizontal axes. Values should be less than .015 in./inch (1 mm/100 mm) for maximum angular measurement range. For the S-670, only the Vertical axis is shown.
Normally, with the large measuring range of the X-Series™ it is not needed but in cases where large motors are installed, this screen is used to “rough in” the motor’s large angular misalignment so the laser can take data for the final alignment. For the vertical axis, simply rotate the laser from 12:00 to 6:00 and average the 2 angular readings, which gives you the rough angular misalignment in inches/inch or mm/100 mm. Multiply this by the C dimension from Step 1 and add or subtract the result from the front or back feet to align the angle of the motor. Repeat this for the Horizontal axis by rotating the laser from 3:00 to 9:00.
Enter Thermal Growth values at the motor’s feet and Couple6 will calculate how much that will affect the alignment at the coupling, will update the motor graphics to show what direction the motor moves and will automatically apply these offsets to the alignment. Foot values can also be entered on the pump side for both the vertical and horizontal axes. To learn more about Thermal Growth check out this Alignment Byte™™
Thermal growth offsets can be applied to the horizontal axis as well.
Enter temperature changes at each foot, the height of the shaft from the motor base and select the material type of the motor and Couple6 will calculate how much each foot will grow and automatically calculate how much this affects the alignment at the coupling. The motor graphics will also update to show how this affects the alignment. Values can be applied to the pump or motor side or both.
Here is the CFE calculator. Pick the material type and Couple6 automatically applies the coefficient of thermal expansion to the motor or pump. Enter the dimension from the center of the shaft to the machine base. Hit the calculator and it converts the temp changes to coupling values.
Enter thermal growth values at the coupling and Couple6 will move the motor graphics to show how much the motor’s feet will move. Values can be also applied to the motor or the pump side.
After hitting the calculator button
Couple6 shows how much the feet move for this offset. The graphics update to show which direction the motor moves.
You can enter the temperature changes for both the motor and pump and Couple6 will convert this complex situation into a simple thermal growth offset at the coupling and apply it automatically to the alignment values.
Choose Bolt Bound™ alignment type and the pump side dimensions are added to the dimension screen. Enter the pump dimensions and when you get to the move screen, you can lock and unlock different combinations of motor/pump feet to see which combination minimizes the moves. To learn more about the Bolt Bound™ features of Couple6™ check out this Alignment Byte™™ features of Couple6™ check out this Alignment Byte™
Enter machine dimensions as shown on the screen. Accuracy of 0.25 inches (0.5 mm) is all that is needed for accurate shim calculation. Enter the coupling diameter (D dimension) and Couple6 will convert gap tolerances to the match the coupling diameter.
Choose Vertical Machines™ alignment type and the vertical pump graphics will display. Select the number of bolts and enter the dimensions on the screen and after taking the data, Couple6 will automatically calculate the dimensions at each bolt hole location. Couple6 also offers the industry’s only live vertical machine alignment screen (shown in Step 5).
Home Button takes you to the main navigation screen.
Next button takes you to Step 2.
Choosing Spacer Shafts changes the dimension graphics, adding the G dimension, which requires entering the length of the spacer coupling. This also automatically changes the data output to the default Spacer Shaft format
Couple6 has 7 different spacer shaft data formats that can be displayed in Step 5 and the report to match the many different tolerance formats in the industry.
Choose RPM to select tolerance to apply to the motor. The table shows both Acceptable and Excellent Tolerances. The Gap tolerance is automatically converted to match the coupling diameter dimension entered (D dimension). If User-Defined Tolerances is enabled, the user can change the tolerances to customize them to their internal specs.
Using the power of Win10, Couple6 can print to any printer, a PDF file or XPS file for emailing or texting reports. You can also choose to include or not include Soft Foot, Thermal Growth Data or History. Click here to see a Couple6 Sample Report.
Couple6 gives you very detailed control over how you want the screens to appear with many preference and choices with how to show the data. It even gives you a choice of graphics quality so it will run better on older tablet pcs! You can even edit the report header to include your company logo.
