Mining is rough on machines. Refined oil is produced in large quantities and equipment runs long hours there, processing heavy loads in harsh conditions. Even a very slight misalignment can cause catastrophic damage.
It is for that reason that accurate shaft alignment is extremely important in mining. It can reduce equipment failure, downtime, and repair costs. When machines are running in perfect alignment, they perform better and last longer.
This saves money and makes us safer. Here, we will discuss four major elements of the mining industry and how precision shaft alignment services prevent things from breaking down.
Pumping And Driving In Process Industries
Pumps and motors are used very widely in processing plants. The devices pump slurries, chemicals and other substances inside the plant. In this machinery, misaligned shafts produce vibration, friction and heat. Seals, bearings and couplings wear down over time. Such damage causes leaks, failures and unanticipated shutdowns.
This is resolved at the source by performing precision shaft alignment. It guarantees the motor and pump shafts are aligned as if you had the perfect eye. This cuts down on wear and preserves gear running smoothly. Since dirt doesn’t stick as well, it makes cleaning easier and less frequent. Plants can bypass the expense of replacing damaged parts or experiencing down time for production. What’s more: better alignment means that less energy is wasted. And that shrinks utility bills, too.
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Your conveyors are the arteries of your mining operation. They transport tons of material from the mine to crushers, sifters or stockpiles. These machines have to deliver around the clock. Belt tracking and slip is a sure sign that there are significant alignment issues between the pulleys and or the drive motor(s).
Precision alignment field services eliminate this problem by keeping the shafts aligned and in place. That way belts stay centered, tension is even and motors do not have to work too hard.” Misalignment can result in motor overheating or premature belt failure on motors. But when it comes to aligned shafts, those risks all but disappear.
Conveyor time, after all, can cost a few thousand dollars an hour. When it’s built with good alignment, the belts last longer and there are fewer breakdowns. That will keep the supplies moving, the crew working and the profits coming.
Crushers And Grinding Mills
Crushers and mills break rocks into smaller particles. These machines are getting a daily beating. The misalignment of shafts on such machines leads to a number of difficulties. They may generate vibration, unbalanced loads and premature wear on gearboxes and bearings.
This is where precision shaft alignment of the custom shaft manufacturer comes into play as well. When the shafts are aligned, the crushing forces are applied evenly. That prevents internal parts from wearing down prematurely. It also reduces the noise and vibration that can make working these machines hard on the equipment and the operators.
In addition to the aforementioned performance advantages, alignment by reduction decreases stress and enhances safety. Failures of equipment in this area of a mine can be deadly. So, not only is better alignment of interests cheaper — it’s also life-saving.
Ventilation And Fan Systems
Underground mines require fresh air. Fans blow air through shafts and tunnels to clear dust and fumes. If these fans go out, the operation can’t continue. What’s more, safety for workers is on the line.
Fans have big motors with shafts rotating at high speed. These systems run constantly. Even minimal out-of-balance condition is sufficient to put a lot of force and unbalance in the motor. A consequence of this is that there is overheating, vibrations and noise.
These fans are in top condition thanks to precision shaft alignment. It lowers friction and reduces energy use and helps prolong motor life. Vibration is also minimized with correct alignment. Sealing keeps ducts and housing from developing stress cracks that are expensive to repair.
Conclusion
Proper shaft alignment is not so much a maintenance issue as it is a cost-saving strategy. In mining, where machines are “redlined,” alignment saves pumps, conveyors, crushers, fans, and other equipment from early failure.
It reduces downtime, increases energy efficiency and even helps protect people. Alignment services are worth the investment today if they can prevent costly repairs tomorrow.
If you’re working on a mining site that uses heavy machinery, you need to ensure that all equipment is properly aligned at all times. Don’t wait for breakdowns to occur. Get ahead of them before they happen with proper alignment services.
