Which maintenance practice can help prevent misalignment during operation?

Routine lubrication checks play a critical role in preventing misalignment during the operation of machinery. Proper lubrication reduces friction between moving parts, which can lead to wear and tear, ultimately contributing to misalignment. When components are not adequately lubricated, they can heat up, warp, or wear unevenly, setting the stage for misalignment as the machine operates. By ensuring that all parts are well-lubricated, operators can maintain smoother operation, reduce the risk of parts shifting out of alignment, and prolong the lifespan of the equipment.

Regular vibration analysis, continual load monitoring, and frequent thermal imaging are valuable maintenance practices in their own right, but they are primarily used for monitoring existing issues or detecting problems instead of directly addressing the cause of misalignment through lubrication.