In sawmills today, with the costs raw materials being what they are. LRF being so important. Raw lumber sizes, accuracy and quality becoming more important than ever. Machinery alignment is critical. Properly aligned machines also reduce maintenance costs and increase production. Lasers become an important part of the critical, alignment process
A laser alignment system usually consists of: A laser light source mounted on an adjustable, magnetic base, a light sensor, a processor, an accurate penta-prism and a number of jigs for individual applications. To use a wire as most sawmills do today. You will require, a wire, two adjustable brackets to hold the wire, a tape measure and an accurate measuring tool such as a Starrett scale.
The differences between using a laser and a wire. A laser alignment system requires a larger number of special jigs for different machines and applications. Jigs required to hold the light sensor or pick-up. Laser systems can be quite expensive. A laser allows for consistent repeatable accuracy of measurements to +/- .001″. A laser can be used accurately for checking level over long distances. A penta-prism allows quick accurate checks for square. A wire is inexpensive. Accuracy is maybe +/- .005″. A wire is useless for level, slow and difficult to establish square. Measurements using a wire may vary slightly when repeated, even with the same person taking the measurements.
Proper alignment procedures for using a laser are exactly the same as for a wire. Two reference points must be established. Some examples for references. One at the beginning of the in-feed, one at the far end of the out-feed for a canter. Square to a feed roll on a horizontal gang saw or edger. Center-line of a vertical arbor gang saw. Depending on the machine. the methods of establishing these references varies. A laser unlike a wire can be set level as well. Allowing you to check the machine, the in-feed and out-feed for level and elevation quickly and accurately with great ease.
A laser will take more time for the initial set-up. However when permanent references have been established and a replaceable support for the light source installed. Set-up is very quick. Another advantage with a laser is the ease, speed and accuracy of checking components for square and 360 degrees to the light. Such as band-mill wheels square to the flow.
Equipment manufacturers give alignment specs today that are very tight. Why would you not use a laser for your alignment requirements? An option to buying a laser alignment system is to find a good service provider. I have checked the Internet and had no success in finding laser alignment systems or service providers. However I know a system and service provider in BC. I would gladly pass on any interest to this person and his company. It’s not me or my company and there is no benefit to me to pass on any interest on your behalf. I would do so only because I believe strongly a laser is the most accurate way to do alignment. Also, a lot easier to use than transits or theodolites.