Shaft Alignment

Shaft alignment is the most common type of alignment requirement across rotating equipment as they are generally coupled via a direct coupling or spacer.
Misalignment is directly responsible for more than 50% of all problems with rotating equipment resulting in problems such as bearing damage, broken retainers, increased wear on couplings and seals, vibrational wear and friction which left unresolved can lead to a significant  increase in energy consumption. 



Our solution

We offer a comprehensive shaft alignment service that combines deep machinery knowledge, extensive field experience, and advanced measurement techniques with high-level analysis, calculation, and simulation capabilities.

  • Standard shaft alignment (laser or dial)
  • Cardan and spacer alignment
  • Belt alignment
  • GAP and SAG measurements
  • Jack load (bearing load) measurements
  • Crankshaft deflection measurements
  • Air gap measurements
  • Thermal growth measurements
  • Dynamic movement measurements
  • Alignment and bearing load calculations
  • Alignment and bearing load simulations
  • Strain gauge measurements

Our solution

Our shaft alignment services combine machinery expertise, field experience, advanced measurement, and high-level engineering analysis.

  • Standard shaft alignment, laser or dial
  • Cardan and spacer alignment
  • Belt alignment
  • GAP and SAG measurements
  • Jack load and crankshaft deflection
  • Air gap and thermal growth
  • Dynamic movement measurements
  • Alignment calculations and simulations
  • Strain gauge measurements


Offering

Measurement and engineering services delivered by experienced alignment engineers, combining practical field execution with advanced analytical support.

Static alignment and installation
Static alignment & installation

We provide precise centreline alignment and alignment management services across all industries. Our engineers measure and adjust alignment for a wide range of machine configurations during installation and commissioning.

  • Spacers, for example cooling towers
  • Horizontal alignments
  • Vertical alignments
  • Machine trains, such as diesel engine, gearbox, generator sets
  • Uncoupled machines where the coupling is mounted afterwards

Cardan-shaft-coupled machines still require accurate alignment. Angular misalignment causes non-linear motion, resulting in increased forces and vibration in bearings, couplings, and seals.

Dynamic measurements and alignment monitoring solutions

Rotating equipment is exposed to dynamic forces that can negatively impact operational performance. Dynamic measurements are performed on assets such as pumps, compressors, generator sets, turbine-driven equipment, and extruders to ensure alignment remains within acceptable limits.

To assess the influence of environmental and operational factors such as pressure, load, and temperature, we also provide continuous alignment monitoring solutions.

These customised solutions monitor alignment over time and provide insight into displacement and movement down to sub-millimetre accuracy in X, Y, and Z directions.

Dynamic alignment measurements

Alignment and bearing load calculations
Alignment and bearing load calculations & simulations

Vibration control and optimal shaft alignment are essential to ensure machinery operates safely and reliably. Alignment calculations and simulations support both early design stages and in-service assessments.

Using FEM or FEA models, shaft alignment, whirling, and axial vibration behaviour can be evaluated as part of a complete drivetrain analysis.

  • GAP and SAG calculations
  • Bearing loads
  • Bearing misalignment
  • Shaft stress

Offering

Static alignment & installation

Precision centreline alignment for individual machines and complete machine trains, including cardan-shaft applications.

Dynamic measurements & monitoring

Dynamic alignment measurements and continuous monitoring to assess thermal growth, pipe strain, and operational effects.

Alignment calculations & simulations

FEM and FEA-based calculations for GAP, SAG, bearing loads, misalignment, and shaft stress.


To guarantee correct and accurate shaft alignment every time, we use laser optic alignment equipment. Combined with experienced engineers and a service-led approach, this ensures measurable operational and reliability benefits.

Increased asset availability
Increased service life of bearings, seals and couplings
Reduced leakage and improved working environment
Reduced risk of overheating and secondary damage
Reduced lubricant consumption
Reduced vibration and noise levels
Reduced risk of serious breakdowns
Lower spare parts usage
Lower energy consumption and less unscheduled downtime

Regardless of asset type or application, AVT Reliability BV (formerly Van Geffen Reliability) has the knowledge and equipment to deliver accurate alignment. From electrically driven pump installations at water pumping stations, to gas turbine driven compressor units offshore, and complete propulsion installations on board mega yachts.

We use laser optic alignment equipment combined with experienced engineers to guarantee accurate shaft alignment and consistent results.

Increased asset availability
Increased bearing, seal and coupling life
Reduced leakage and better working environment
Reduced vibration and noise
Reduced breakdown risk and downtime
Lower energy and maintenance costs

From pump installations to offshore compressor units and yacht propulsion systems, we deliver precise alignment across all applications.

EU Flag

Local service backed by global support

  • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
  • Clear detailed reporting with actionable insights
  • Expert support and consultation

EU Flag

Local service backed by global support

  • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
  • Clear detailed reporting with actionable insights
  • Expert support and consultation