Technical solutions provider Bearing Man Group’s (BMG’s) condition monitoring range has been expanded by the newly launched portable SPM Leonova Diamond Aligner system.

The SPM Leonova has been designed for quick and reliable shaft alignment in many applications, including compressors, gearboxes, generators and pumps. The system has a dual laser system that is suitable for most combinations of machinery and coupled or uncoupled shafts.

It also incorporates advanced digital technology, where alignment sensors communicate with the instrument through Bluetooth. Automatic calculations and instant correction and alignment data ensure a perfect shaft alignment, even in tough operating environments.

The SPM Leonova is hand-held and comes with the complete kit packed in a portable case, consisting of the control and display instruments, alignment sensors, aluminium brackets, extendable chains, up to 480-mm-diameter shafts, rods, cables and a tape measure.

“The alignment sensors use high-precision digital CMOS linear image detectors which detect any interference to the light source that is likely to impede maximum accuracy in shaft alignment,” says BMG power transmission GM Carlo Beukes.

He explains that the dual axis, high- precision inclinometers measure the angle of rotation of both detector units at all times. This allows measurements in fully automatic mode, with less than half a turn of the shaft.

“This system works with standard and user-defined tolerance levels to perform accurate alignment calculations for horizontal, as well as vertical or flange-mounted machines. Other measurement programmes include soft foot check, thermal growth compensation and tolerance checks,” he points out.

For user convenience, the feet lock function automatically provides alternative alignment corrections. He says that the SPM Leonova produces a log file with all alignment data for documentation and printing.

“Specially designed modular software supports the SPM Leonova, providing easy setup of personalised default settings for exact user requirements,” Beukes highlights.

The heavy-duty SPM Leonova, he says, has a carbon-fibre-reinforced IP 65-rated enclosure, has been drop-tested to one metre and has a liquid crystal display backlit colour display that has a user-friendly graphical interface for easy operation and accurate results.

BMG’s comprehensive portfolio of SPM condition monitoring equipment extends from basic hand-held instruments to high-level online systems.