Turbine Coupling Alignment Tool
(Above) Tool is easily inserted with misalignment up to 1/8"
Old Method: The fitted bolts used for this turbine require alignment of the coupling holes within a few thousands of an inch. Prior to using the Superbolt® Alignment Tool, the alignment process required many hours of work with the overhead crane. The crane is attached to a pin inserted in one of the coupling holes. The crane rotates one coupling half and a worker watches the coupling holes and signals to the crane operator. This works well to align within 1/16" or so. However, aligning to a few thousanths with this method is very difficult. With luck, the crane operator will tap the crane on for the exact duration to get the holes to the near perfect alignment. Many attempts are often necessary.
Superbolt® Solution: Although there are other methods for aligning coupling holes, none is as simple and effective as the Superbolt® Coupling Alignment Tool. The alignment tool is able to compensate for misalignment up to 1/8". By tightening the jackbolts on the Superbolt® Tensioner, the mating tapers of the tool head and the outer sleeve work to align the holes. The tools can work over a small range of sizes and have interchangeable heads to work with a very broad range of hole diameters. Tensioner has two holes to utilize extraction bolts for easy removal.
Top: Complete Assembly
Middle: Outer sleeve and stage piece
Bottom: Tapered head, stud, and Superbolt® Tensioner