What tool is commonly used to adjust the height of machine feet during alignment?

The use of shims for adjusting the height of machine feet during alignment is a common practice in the field of millwrighting. Shims are thin, flat pieces of material, typically made from metal or composite materials, that can be inserted under the machine foot to elevate it to the desired height. This is crucial for achieving proper alignment, as even a small misalignment can lead to operational issues, increased wear, and potential failure of machinery.

When conducting an alignment, the goal is to ensure that the rotational axes of connected machines (like motors and pumps) are perfectly aligned to minimize vibration and wear. If a machine is sitting too low on one side, shims are the appropriate tool to adjust the height accordingly. By adding shims under the feet of the machine, operators can carefully raise one side of the machine to reach the specified alignment.

While other tools like wrenches are used for tightening or loosening bolts, lasers for precise alignment measurement, and calipers for measuring dimensions, they do not directly serve the function of raising the machine feet. Thus, shims are the specific tool that caters to the need for height adjustment in the alignment process.