How to fix pivot pin alignment issues with offset sleeves
Pivot pin alignment issues caused by misaligned lug holes or pivot bores are a common problem when multiple lugs must align over larger distances. Failing to address this can come with expensive consequences, so what if it could be easily fixed in installation? R&D Manager Mathias Olofsson explains how the offset sleeve solution from Expander® turns a costly problem into a simple adjustment.
Why do misaligned lug bores occur?
In applications where two or more lugs must line up against a counter part over a significant distance, line boring and assembly adjustments gets complicated. The larger the parts that needs rotating, the greater the distance, the more challenging it is to align everything correctly.
An example of this in action is the case of off-ramps from ships used to offload cargo or vehicles. The ramps can be very wide, and if the pins connecting the ramp are not properly aligned, it creates pinching, bearing edge pressures and wear.
A number of issues can occur if this alignment is not correct when the pivot pins are fitted and in use. Typical problems include seizing of the pivots or axels and connecting bearings, as well as other kinds of subsequent wear, provoking downtime, demanding maintenance, and driving up total cost of ownership.
Can misaligned pivot bores or lug bores be avoided?
Line boring completely straight and paralell lines through all the lugs during the production process is possible but it requires expensive, highly accurate manufacturing with heavy-duty machinery.
Ensuring alignment in after-market situations is traditionally even trickier, requiring bulky equipment that is a challenge to use on-site, and driving up costs and time. Combining the Expander System with offset sleeves is a much simpler solution than both alternatives with multiple benefits.
How combining offset sleeves with the Expander System solves the pivot bore alignment problem
The offset sleeve by Expander is designed with the center of the sleeve offset from its outer diameter. This means turning the sleeve moves the pin that is connected to it, so the position of the axel can be finely adjusted.
This adjustment makes it possible to counteract misalignment of the pivot bores by shifting the position of the axle, unlocking a solution that is easy to implement on-site in routine installation.
A solution to pivot pin alignment problems that saves time and reduces complexity
The offset sleeve’s clever design shifts the focus of pivot bore alignment from complex manufacturing and boring, to a simple installation process, where the position of the axles can be aligned during assembly by adjusting the pin through rotating the sleeves.
The result is a highly cost and time-effective solution to a common problem that avoids unnecessary downtime and is easy to utilize, all without access to cumbersome tooling and machinery.
