FREE Millwright Precision Shaft Alignment Techniques Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the first corrective step a millwright should take after discovering a 'soft foot' condition on a motor?

Accepted Answer

Add or remove shims under the appropriate foot to eliminate the rock.

Answer

Proceed with the alignment and compensate for the reading.

Answer

Tighten all the hold-down bolts to maximum torque.

Answer

Replace the motor bearings.

Question 2

When aligning a hot pump to a cold motor, what must be accounted for to achieve proper alignment under operating conditions?

Accepted Answer

Thermal growth of the pump

Answer

Shaft end float

Answer

Coupling backlash

Answer

Initial starting torque

Question 3

In the rim-and-face alignment method, which type of misalignment is primarily measured by the 'face' reading?

Accepted Answer

Angular misalignment

Answer

Parallel offset misalignment

Answer

Axial shaft float

Answer

Torsional misalignment

Question 4

Acceptable alignment tolerances are most dependent on which machine characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Operating speed (RPM)

Answer

Machine weight

Answer

Coupling type

Answer

Baseplate material

Question 5

When using the reverse dial indicator method, what does a Total Indicator Reading (TIR) of zero at both 12 and 6 o'clock on one shaft, while reading the other, indicate?

Accepted Answer

Perfect parallel alignment in the vertical plane.

Answer

Perfect angular alignment in the vertical plane.

Answer

A severe soft foot condition.

Answer

The dial indicator is broken.

Question 6

What is a primary advantage of using a laser alignment system over traditional dial indicator methods?

Accepted Answer

They reduce calculation errors and eliminate indicator bracket sag.

Answer

They do not require the shafts to be rotated.

Answer

They are not affected by thermal growth.

Answer

They can be used without removing coupling guards.