What type of alignment is done before correcting soft foot?

Before correcting soft foot, a rough alignment is typically performed. This initial step involves getting the equipment close to its intended alignment position without focusing on precision. The rough alignment allows the millwright to identify any major discrepancies in alignment and assess how much adjustment is needed for the machinery components.

In the context of correcting soft foot, which refers to a condition where one or more feet of a machine are not resting evenly on the base or foundation, performing a rough alignment helps to determine how the machine sits before making any detailed adjustments. Once the rough alignment is established, the technician can then address the soft foot situation by adjusting those uneven machine feet so they make proper contact with the base.

Other types of alignment tools, such as angular dial, offset dial, or vertical dial, are used for more precise alignment after any issues like soft foot have been resolved. They are typically employed once the machine is in a stable position to ensure that shafts or couplings are aligned correctly for optimal performance and minimal wear.