During a shaft alignment procedure, what is conducted first as part of the process?

The first step in a shaft alignment procedure is performing a soft foot check. This step is crucial because it ensures that all the machine feet are making proper contact with the base during alignment. A soft foot condition occurs when one or more of the machine feet are not resting firmly on the mounting surface, which can lead to inaccurate alignment readings and affect the machine's performance and lifespan.

By identifying and addressing any soft foot issues at the beginning, you create a stable foundation for subsequent alignment measurements and adjustments. This preemptive check helps prevent complications that could arise later in the alignment process if the base conditions are not properly addressed. Once the soft foot condition is resolved, accurate alignment measurements can be taken, leading to effective adjustments.