Concentricity Measurement Techniques
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ScribdTranslationsConcentricity Measurement Techniques
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ScribdTranslationsConcentricity measurement methods.
There are different ways to measure concentricity in the industry; it can be
measured for an alignment of two axes or for a single cylindrical part.
Alignment of two axes.
When you want to know the concentricity of two axes, the following
methods can be used:
Alignment using radial clock and gauges
Alignment using alternating radial clocks
Optalign laser alignment system
Alignment using radial clock and gauges.
The aim is to correct the radial misalignment using a dial indicator.
The plates are rotated together and the marker is read in the left, right, up
and down positions. The measurements will indicate a correct position of B
with respect to A if the following is true: left = right = up = down.
• It is convenient to repeat to measure the relative position of axis A with
respect to B.
The following figure indicates what is measured when using a buyer's watch.
There is a tree B misaligned downwards by a distance H with respect to tree
A.
Alignment using alternating radial clocks
Misalignment in this method is determined graphically by defining the
relative positions of the axis lines. The steps to follow are those:
1. Mark on the surfaces of one of the semi-couplings a reference point
and 3 more at 90º, 180º and 270º, respectively.
2. Assemble two dial gauges, one with its probe resting on the outside of
a plate and its support secured to the axis of the other machine,
occupying the 0º position, and the other placed in the opposite
direction and in the 180º position.
3. Write down the readings obtained on both dial gauges in the positions
of 0º, 90º, 180º and 270º in the corresponding place on the work
sheet.
4. The misalignment in the vertical plane is determined. On the graph
paper, the tree EI of the stationary machine is drawn in an arbitrary
position, placing the position of the plates PI and PII and their supports
with respect to it.
5. With the readings at positions 0º and 180º of the RII clock we know the
distance dII (relative position of the EII axis with respect to the EI axis
in the measurement plane PI), so that we can locate point II.
6. With the readings at positions 0º and 180º of the clock RI we know the
distance dI, (relative position of the axis EI with respect to the axis EII
in the measurement plane PII), so that we can locate point I. Joining
points I and II we define the projection on the vertical plane of the EII
axis. In this way we obtain the relative position of the EII axis with
respect to the EI. If we now place its supports on EII we can see
graphically the CI and CII distances, which represent the corrections in
the EII supports necessary for correct alignment.
7. In an analogous way, but considering the readings of the 90º and 270º
positions, we proceed to align it in the horizontal plane.
Laser alignment system.
The procedure to align with this equipment is as follows:
1. First, proceed to adjust the emitter/detector and the prism. Both the
transducer system, which contains the laser and the position detector, and
the prism, slide and position themselves on the columns of the fixings. The
visible laser beam facilitates the initial adjustment of the prism, even at great
distances, by seeking its reflection in the position detector.
3. Measurement. At least three positions at 90° joint rotation of the trees are
measured.
4. Results in coupling. The misalignment in the coupling appears on the
screen, with a precision of 0.01 mm. Parallel displacement and angularity at
the coupling are indicated in horizontal and vertical views.
5. Correction of supports. If the alignment is out of specifications, obtain
correction values, which include compensation for thermal expansion if there
are intentional misalignment values.
Cylindrical piece.
To analyze the concentricity of a cylindrical part, proceed as follows:
By means of a dial indicator.
The piece is mounted between the tips of a testing device and proceeds as
follows:
A comparator is placed on the plane of the apparatus so that its probe is in
contact with the surface of the piece.
The piece is slowly rotated observing the comparator: Deviations from the
index will give us the circularity error.
If the index does not move during the rotation of the piece, it means that
there is no circularity error of the cross section or eccentricity error of the
cylinder axis with respect to the axis of the tips. The operation is repeated in
different positions throughout, conveniently spaced. The maximum value of
the deviations found (radius variation) is taken as the circularity error.
Concentricity measuring device.
The inspection method is based on the indirect measurement of the
geometric profile of the piece by means of a non-contact electronic sensor.
The data obtained are used to calculate the center of the geometric locus
through a calculation algorithm based on system resolution. of simultaneous
equations.
The industrial component is composed of a metal casing with a central hole
on which a bearing is housed, as well as an annular mass that is placed and
fixed inside the casing in several automatic operations.
The purpose of the measurement is to verify that the concentricity of the
mass with respect to the bearing hole is within the permitted parameters to
meet the performance specifications of the final product.
Data sampling is taken by one revolution of the arrow; a reading algorithm is
responsible for taking only 36 values that correspond to the same number of
segments of the mass, appropriate for measurement; The values are
processed to construct a table of rectangular coordinates from the available
polar coordinates. The calculation of the coordinates of the center is carried
out using the three-point algorithm and the Newton-Raphson method; Both
values are displayed on the computer monitor and depending on their value
with respect to the allowable tolerance, the part is classified as accepted or
rejected.
Comparison with practice.
The methodology used in practice is similar to that explained above, being
one of the simplest ways to measure the concentricity of an axis or a
cylindrical piece, however not the most exact.
For precision measurement, electronic devices are used which use laser,
ultrasound, etc.
These types of measurements are normally made when aligning a pair of
axles or as a quality standard control.
Common questions
Powered by AIUsing multiple position readings enhances accuracy in laser alignment systems by providing comprehensive data across varying rotational angles. Measuring at least three positions at 90° joint rotations allows the system to detect and calculate both angular and parallel misalignments effectively, isolating errors in horizontal and vertical planes. This multi-angle data collection enables a precise correction value determination for support movements . It reduces the likelihood of systematic errors that could occur if measurements were taken from fewer positions or angles, ensuring that all potential deviations are considered and corrected, improving overall alignment precision .
The use of indirect measurement via electronic sensors significantly enhances the efficiency of concentricity measurement for cylindrical pieces by automating the data collection process and reducing manual input errors. Sensors gather extensive data on the geometric profile without physical contact, allowing for rapid sampling over 36 segments per rotation. This detailed dataset is then processed through algorithms to determine concentricity, greatly reducing time and labor compared to traditional manual methods . Furthermore, electronic sensors can provide reliable, repeatable measurements and are capable of adhering to tighter tolerances, which is critical for quality control and industrial standards .
The laser alignment system for measuring the concentricity of two axes differs from traditional methods such as using radial clocks and gauges by incorporating an emitter/detector and a prism to accurately measure misalignment. It measures at least three positions during a 90° joint rotation, providing results with a precision of 0.01 mm, displayed on a screen. It indicates parallel displacement and angularity in both horizontal and vertical views and suggests correction values, considering thermal expansion when necessary . Its advantages include higher precision, ease of use over large distances, real-time data visualization, and the capability to adjust for compensating factors like thermal effects, making it more efficient and accurate than manual methods .
The primary methods for measuring the concentricity of a cylindrical part include using a dial indicator and a concentricity measuring device. With a dial indicator, the piece is mounted between the tips of a testing device, and deviations from the index during rotation are observed to assess circularity error. This method relies on detecting variations as the piece rotates . The concentricity measuring device employs a non-contact electronic sensor to indirectly measure the geometric profile, using data sampling and algorithms (three-point algorithm and Newton-Raphson method) to calculate the center of the geometric locus. This method provides more detailed accuracy by calculating deviations in polar and then converting to rectangular coordinates, comparing these with the allowable tolerance .
Alignment using alternating radial clocks provides a distinct visual representation of axis misalignment, which can be advantageous for immediate comprehension and corrective action. By plotting readings at various angles (0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°) on graph paper, it graphically illustrates misalignments in vertical and horizontal planes . This visualization helps technicians intuitively understand spatial relationships and needed corrections, an aspect often lost in pure numerical approaches which might require additional interpretation skills. However, while visually intuitive, this can lead to precision loss if graphically plotted inaccurately, making it less precise than digital numerical systems that rely on exact data processing and provide precise numerical values for corrections .
The historical use of mechanical gauges for concentricity measurement provides a foundational understanding of the mechanics behind misalignment correction. Practices such as using dial indicators or radial clocks build tactile intuition and manual skill among technicians, promoting a deep understanding of spatial relationships and mechanical adjustments . This foundational knowledge influences current practices by ensuring that even with modern technological advancements, technicians can rely on basic mechanical principles when interpreting electronic data. While modern systems provide more precise and efficient solutions, this mechanical insight aids in validating electronic results and troubleshooting complex issues, marrying traditional understanding with advanced technology for comprehensive problem-solving in industrial settings .
A dial indicator measures concentricity by rotating the cylindrical part between tips and observing deviations, which reflect circularity errors. It is simple and provides a direct method for surface deviation assessment . A concentricity measuring device, on the other hand, uses a non-contact sensor and sophisticated algorithms to calculate the geometric locus center, processing sampled data into rectangular coordinates . This method is more effective for quality control as it offers higher precision through automation and reduced human error, providing comprehensive analysis by calculating deviation and comparing with tolerances. Hence, for quality control requiring strict adherence to specifications, the concentricity measuring device is superior .
The traditional graphical method for measuring axial misalignment, such as using alternating radial clocks, has several limitations compared to modern technological methods. It primarily depends on manual plotting and interpretation of graphical data, which can introduce human errors and misinterpretations. The method is also less precise due to potential inaccuracies in manually plotted projections and lacks the comprehensive data processing capabilities offered by electronic systems. Modern technological methods, such as laser alignment systems, provide higher accuracy through automated calculations, digital display of alignment conditions, and the ability to consider additional factors like thermal expansion in their corrections .
The graphical procedure using alternating radial clocks involves defining relative positions of axes graphically. The process starts with marking reference points on one semi-coupling, using two dial gauges set at 0° and 180°, and noting readings at 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°. Graphs are used to determine vertical and horizontal plane misalignments, with support positions adjusted graphically to correct the axis positions . This method provides a clear visual representation of misalignment, allowing precise adjustments. However, it might lack the precision of digital methods due to potential human error in readings and graphical interpretations, affecting its accuracy compared to electronic systems .
The three-point algorithm and the Newton-Raphson method are used in the concentricity measurement process to accurately determine the center of the geometric locus of a cylindrical part. The process involves taking data samples to form coordinate tables, which are then processed to find the center using these algorithms. The three-point algorithm helps triangulate the center by solving simultaneous equations, while the Newton-Raphson method iteratively refines these calculations for improved precision . These methods provide robust accuracy in determining concentricity, even in complex geometries, significantly enhancing outcome reliability and reducing error margins compared to intuitive methods. Their application is particularly advantageous in high-precision contexts, such as quality control in manufacturing .