Laser Shaft Alignment

What Is Laser Shaft Alignment?

Laser shaft alignment is the precise process of measuring and correcting the position of rotating shafts so that they operate on a common axis. Using a laser head and receiver, engineers can identify both angular and offset misalignment between couplings or shafts. Data captured by the system is processed through alignment software, which calculates the exact adjustments needed to achieve perfect alignment. The result is a smoother, more efficient mechanical system with reduced vibration, less wear, and improved reliability.

Why Alignment Matters

Even minor shaft misalignment can cause excessive vibration, bearing wear, and premature component failure. In high-performance environments such as aviation — particularly within helicopter tail rotor drive systems — maintaining correct alignment is critical to both safety and performance. Precise alignment ensures efficient power transmission, minimal stress on rotating components, and consistent operational reliability.

ATLAS TRDS Shaft Alignment System

Developed by CNR, the ATLAS TRDS laser alignment system is designed specifically for aligning helicopter tail rotor drive shafts. Compact, accurate, and intuitive to use, ATLAS enhances traditional alignment practices by providing faster and more accurate feedback through advanced laser measurement and software analysis. The system supports a range of applications — from manufacturing and scheduled maintenance to front-line service operations — helping engineers achieve precise alignment quickly and confidently.

Bespoke Engineering for Each Aircraft

Every aircraft presents unique geometric and access challenges. The ATLAS TRDS system overcomes these with bespoke aircraft bracketry and alignment templates, designed for specific airframes. These fixtures position the laser and receiver accurately within restricted spaces, ensuring repeatable, high-precision measurements even in complex layouts.

Benefits of Laser Alignment

Accuracy: Detects the smallest angular and offset errors.

Efficiency: Quicker setup and measurement than optical or mechanical methods.

Reliability: Repeatable results across operators and maintenance cycles.

Reduced Wear: Minimises vibration and bearing stress.

Traceability: Digital results support quality assurance and compliance.

Calibration and Confidence

To maintain precision, the ATLAS TRDS laser alignment system undergoes annual calibration. Each calibration verifies that all laser equipment remains within tolerance, ensuring consistent, traceable accuracy. This ongoing process safeguards measurement integrity and provides engineers with total confidence in every alignment result.

Supporting Operational Readiness

Laser shaft alignment is not just a maintenance procedure — it’s an essential part of sustaining aircraft readiness. By ensuring the correct alignment of helicopter tail rotor drive shafts, the ATLAS TRDS system helps maintain reliability, reduce downtime, and support ongoing operational performance for MoD aircraft. Through precision engineering and consistent calibration, ATLAS continues to deliver dependable accuracy where it matters most.