NCCER Millwright Practice Exam

What can easily change lateral alignment during operation?

1. Temperature

2. Vibration

3. Shimming

4. Load

The correct answer is: Shimming

Lateral alignment can be significantly affected during operation by shifts in the machinery or equipment's position, and shimming is a method specifically designed to correct or adjust alignment issues. Shimming involves placing thin pieces of material, known as shims, underneath machinery to level or align it properly. This adjustment can stabilize the lateral alignment by compensating for any misalignments or shifting that occurs as the machine operates. When machines are in operation, factors such as temperature, vibration, and load can induce stresses or movements that affect alignment. However, these factors themselves don't directly change the alignment; rather, they can create conditions that necessitate adjustments. Shimming is a proactive measure taken to mitigate such changes and maintain proper alignment, making it the most relevant factor in the context of easily changing lateral alignment during operation.