When aligning a piece of equipment, what should you do first?

Starting with the vertical part of the alignment is significant because it lays the foundational adjustment for proper alignment of the equipment. Vertical alignment ensures that the shafts of the connected components are level, which is critical for the effective operation of rotating machinery. Achieving this alignment first helps to avoid operational issues that can arise from improper angles, such as wear and inefficiencies, which can lead to premature failure of equipment.

Once the vertical alignment is established, subsequent adjustments to the horizontal alignment can be made more effectively. This step-wise approach helps ensure that both axes are appropriately aligned, which can prevent misalignment problems that cause vibrations, excessive wear, or even catastrophic mechanical failures. Therefore, addressing the vertical alignment initially is a crucial best practice in equipment setup and maintenance.