Method of assessing shaft alignment based on energy efficiency

摘要

A method of determining and utilizing an Energy Efficiency Indicator, the method initiating with a step of determining a distal or angular offset between a pair of coupled shafts provided between adjacent rotating machines. The offset is correlated to energy efficiency between the pair of coupled shafts. Correlation is referred to as an Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI). The Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) can be used to predict changes in alignment, changes in energy efficiency, and the like. Monitoring the coupled rotating machines and using the Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) can provide the operator with predictive information to enhance the reliability and extend the lifespan of the coupled rotating machines.

主权项

1. A method implemented by a computing device for determining an energy efficiency indicator respective to a coupling provided between adjacent rotating machines, the computing device comprising a microprocessor, a digital data storage device, a user input interface configured to receive data, a display configured to provide information, circuitry configured to provide operable interconnectivity between components of the computing device, comprising
determining a first offset between a pair of coupled shafts of the adjacent rotating machines by automatically detecting and monitoring a first initial torque of a first mounting hardware of a first shaft of the pair of coupled shafts and automatically detecting and monitoring a second initial torque of a second mounting hardware of a second shaft of the pair of coupled shafts, the first offset being in an as found condition; providing an alignment, as the information, between the pair of coupled shafts causing the pair of coupled shafts to be placed into a correct condition; in response to the providing of the alignment, determining a second offset between the pair of coupled shafts by automatically detecting and monitoring a first subsequent torque of the first mounting hardware of a first shaft of the pair of coupled shafts and automatically detecting and monitoring a second subsequent torque of the second mounting hardware of a second shaft of the pair of coupled shafts, the second offset being in the corrected condition; and determining the energy efficiency indicator by determining a percentage difference between the second offset in the corrected condition and the first offset in the as found condition.