What are jacking bolts or screws used for?

Jacking bolts or screws serve a critical role in machine alignment by allowing for precise adjustments. They are particularly designed to enable horizontal adjustments and help secure the machined equipment in place while shims are being added or adjusted. This function is vital because shimming is a common practice to achieve proper alignment, ensuring that machines operate efficiently and reduce wear and tear.

When using jacking bolts, a technician can fine-tune the position of a machine by turning the bolts, which raises or lowers specific areas of the machine frame. This is especially important when trying to achieve parallelism or levelness with other equipment. Once the desired position is reached, these bolts help maintain the position of the machine, preventing any movement as shims are inserted or adjusted, further stabilizing the setup.

This precise control over machine positioning is essential in avoiding misalignment, which could lead to greater issues in machine performance and lifespan. Thus, the answer accurately describes the primary use of jacking bolts in the context of machine installation and maintenance.