When aligning two shafts, what is the first step?

The first step in aligning two shafts is to check for soft foot conditions. Soft foot occurs when a machine's base does not make uniform contact with its foundation or support structure, which can lead to misalignment and improper operation. Identifying and correcting soft foot is crucial because any discrepancies in the base can affect the alignment process downstream.

If a soft foot condition is not addressed before beginning the alignment, it can cause inaccuracies in the measurements taken during alignment and may lead to excessive vibration, premature wear of components, or even machine failure. Therefore, ensuring that all feet of the machine are securely and evenly supported lays a solid foundation for the subsequent alignment tasks.

Other steps, such as measuring shaft distances or installing alignment tools, should follow once any soft foot issues are resolved. Starting with a visual inspection is beneficial but does not replace the necessity of confirming the machine's stability and support integrity, which is essential for effective alignment.