Coupling Hole Alignment

CHAT Tool
Aligning Coupling Holes
CHAT Tool
For Turbine Couplings
CHAT Tool
Reducing Outage Periods
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The CHAT tool, akin to the Pilgrim Radial Fit Bolt, is engineered to facilitate the swift, accurate and repeatable alignment of turbine coupling holes. It is hydraulically expanded beyond the nominal hole size by up to 1.5 mm, ensuring a precise and secure re-alignment process. This tool is particularly beneficial in scenarios such as turbine re-alignment or rotor replacement, where maintaining coupling concentricity is crucial. The CHAT tool’s design allows for quick deployment, significantly reducing downtime during maintenance operations. Moreover, the tool is backed by comprehensive support from experienced engineers and technicians, providing both guidance and on-site assistance to ensure optimal performance and reliability

In addition to the CHAT tool,  has been developed to complement the alignment process, offering another layer of precision and efficiency. The complete Coupling Bolt and Assembly Package, inclusive of these tools, represents a holistic solution for turbine maintenance, endorsed by major steam turbine manufacturers for its significant advantages over conventional fitted bolts.

It’s important to note that the CHAT tool’s hydraulic expansion capability is a key feature that distinguishes it from other alignment tools. The tool’s robust design and hydraulic mechanism make it an indispensable asset for maintenance teams, streamlining the alignment process and ensuring the longevity and efficiency of turbine operations.

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“With the CHAT tool it is a one time shot. You install the tool, pump it up and all of the holes are perfectly aligned so you can get all of the bolts/sleeves in with ease.” 

Rick Spicuzza: Siemens

Benefits

Safe

Safe and easy to operate.

Time Saving

Aides an Outage team to quickly and effortlessly realign and close the turbine coupling within minutes.

Cost saving

Increases profit by reducing unplanned costs allowing for accurate planning.

No Damage

The CHAT tool removes the risk of galling or damaging the turbine coupling while alignment activities take place.

How it Works

The Pilgrim CHAT (Coupling Hole Alignment Tool) operates on a simple yet effective principle to ensure the precise alignment of turbine coupling holes. It consists of a set of tools that are inserted into equidistantly spaced flange holes. Once in place, these tools are simultaneously pressurized, causing them to expand hydraulically. This expansion aligns the coupling holes accurately, facilitating a smooth and secure coupling face closure in preparation for the installation of the coupling bolts. Depending on the size of the coupling, a CHAT package may consist of three or four tool assemblies. It’s important to note that the CHAT tool’s hydraulic expansion capability is a key feature that distinguishes it from other alignment tools. This feature not only ensures a tight and secure fit but also allows for adjustments to be made with ease, accommodating any slight variations in hole size that may occur over time or due to operational factors. 

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