SKF TKSA 41 aligner: how to choose the model for your workshop

A shaft aligner is a precision tool that measures the misalignment between two coupled shafts, such as those of a motor and a pump. The SKF TKSA series uses laser technology to show in real time how much correction is needed at each machine's supports. This prevents premature wear of bearings, seals and couplings.

TKSA aligners are used in industrial maintenance, equipment assembly and commissioning of rotating machines. They are common in process, food, paper, oil and gas plants, and in pump and motor repair workshops. With a laser aligner you work faster than with dial indicators or straightedges, and the results are documented.

At MR we supply SKF TKSA aligners, such as the TKSA 11, TKSA 31, TKSA 41, TKSA 51 and TKSA 71 models, and their accessories. If you already have a code or a specific need, we'll quote the equipment and tell you which model suits your application.

The TKSA series has several models designed for different levels of demand and types of machines. The most basic models are suitable for simple alignment of small pumps and motors, while the more advanced ones allow aligning machine trains, vertical shafts or long distances. The choice depends on your machine fleet and how often you use it.

Each model differs in how it displays results, how many machines can be aligned in a sequence, the distance between the measuring units and the type of reports it generates. What each unit includes in its case also varies.

To find out which model is right for you, the best approach is to describe your application to us. With the data on the machines you align, the shaft diameter and the distance between supports, we'll recommend the appropriate SKF TKSA aligner. At MR we distribute the models and accessories of the series.

Before choosing an aligner, it's worth asking what type of machines you'll be aligning. If they are simple pumps and motors, a basic model is enough. If you work with compressors, gearboxes or machine trains, you need a model prepared to align several machines coupled on the same line.

It also matters whether you align vertical shafts, as in vertical pumps or agitators, or whether you work with long distances between the measuring units. Some models in the TKSA series are prepared for these situations, and others require additional accessories. Shaft diameter and the space available around the coupling also play a role.

Another consideration is how many technicians will use the equipment and whether you need to generate alignment reports for the maintenance history. The models also differ in how they store and share reports. If you tell us your case, we'll guide you in the choice.

In addition to the aligners, the TKSA series has mounting accessories ordered separately, such as TKSA EXT50, TKSA MAGBASE and TKSA VBK. They help solve mounting situations that the standard equipment doesn't cover, and not all of them are used with every model. That's why it's best to order them together with the code of the aligner you have.

Each accessory is chosen according to the aligner model and the machine: the type of shaft, the space around the coupling and how the units are fastened. There are also fastening and transport spare parts for the equipment in the series. At MR we supply genuine SKF accessories for TKSA aligners.

If you already have an SKF TKSA aligner and need an accessory, send us the equipment code and we'll quote the spare part or the upgrade. We also advise you on compatibility between models.

Within the series, the TKSA 71 also has two versions: the TKSA 71D and the TKSA 71/PRO. They are three different codes and each includes a different set. Before choosing, it's worth being clear about which machines you'll be aligning and what documentation you need to keep in the history.

The safest approach is to ask us for the details of what each code includes before deciding. With the list of machines in your plant and the type of report you need, we'll tell you which of the three versions is right.

At MR we help you compare the versions of the TKSA 71 and choose the one that best suits your workshop. We supply all three codes: TKSA 71, TKSA 71D and TKSA 71/PRO.

The alignment procedure with a TKSA is simple: the two measuring units are mounted, one on each shaft and on each side of the coupling, and measurement begins. The system guides the operator step by step, indicating how much each support must be moved to correct the misalignment. At the end, the alignment results remain for the machine's history.

For good results, it's important that the support surfaces are clean and that the units are well fastened. Soft foot must also be corrected first, and the shafts rotated as indicated by the equipment's procedure. Careless mounting can give erroneous measurements.

If you've never used a laser aligner, at MR we guide you through the first steps and recommend the model according to your maintenance team's experience.

To get a quote for an SKF TKSA aligner, write to us by WhatsApp or email with the model code you're interested in, for example TKSA 41 or TKSA 71. If you don't know which to choose, tell us which machines you'll be aligning, the shaft diameter and the distance between supports. With that data we'll recommend the right equipment.

You can also send us a photo of the coupling or the work area so we can assess which accessories may be needed. We supply the aligners and accessories of the TKSA series, and we'll quote the set you need.

We work with genuine SKF product and support you in the choice. Send your inquiry today and we'll reply promptly with the best option for your maintenance.