For more than two decades, Hamar Laser has been at the forefront of precision shaft alignment technology, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of industry.
From the introduction of our groundbreaking S-640 system, which set a new benchmark for laser alignment accuracy, to the advanced X-Series™ models of today, each generation has built upon the last with smarter electronics, more intuitive software, and rugged, field-ready designs.
This timeline highlights key innovations and milestones in our shaft alignment journey, showing how our commitment to accuracy, repeatability, and ease of use has shaped the tools technicians rely on worldwide.
First Visible Beam Laser
In 1988, Hamar Laser revolutionized the industry with the introduction of the L-700 Spindle Laser, the first visible laser system that could be seen with the naked eye.
This breakthrough not only transformed how alignment was performed but also paved the way for the advanced shaft alignment systems that would follow from Hamar Laser.
First Production Shaft
Alignment System
In 1990, Hamar Laser ignited a revolution in shaft alignment with the debut of its first production laser system, the S-640 Coupling II.
Packed with “Industry Firsts,” it was the first shaft alignment system to feature a visible diode laser and the first to deliver true 4-axis measurement (two linear and two angular), setting a new benchmark for precision and comprehensive alignment capability.
Couple4™
Developed in 1990, Couple4™ was originally created for the S-640 II Shaft Alignment System, and remained the primary alignment software platform used by Hamar Laser Instruments until the release of Couple5™ in 2009. Designed for Windows® tablets, it introduced technicians to digital shaft alignment, providing reliable measurements and real-time feedback that significantly improved precision over traditional tools.
First Wireless Dual-Beam™
Shaft Alignment System
After a decade of refinement, Hamar Laser unveiled the S-650, industry’s first 5-axis shaft alignment system (three linear axes and two rotational axes), the first wireless laser alignment solution, and the only patented Dual-Beam™ Unidirectional Laser (two lasers, one direction), a breakthrough that remains unmatched to this day.
Stealth Series™ is Born
In 2007, Hamar Laser launched the first of three models that paved the way for today’s X-Series™ systems. The redesigned S-680 set the standard with higher accuracy and a more user-friendly design.
Featuring 5-axis capability, patented Dual-Beam™ Unidirectional Laser technology, and the largest sensor and angular range on the market, a distinction it still holds today. The S-680 marked a major leap forward in shaft alignment innovation.
First 3-Axis Alignment
System
Also in 2007, Hamar Laser released the second model in the Stealth Series™ lineup, the S-670. This system introduced Hamar Laser’s first 3-axis capability (horizontal offset, vertical offset, and angular misalignment) while incorporating the unmatched, patented Dual-Beam™ Unidirectional Technology.
Offering nearly the same performance as its larger counterpart, the S-680, the S-670 delivered precision and versatility in a mid-level package.
The Entry-Level Laser
Alignment System
Completing the Stealth Series™ lineup in 2009, the S-660 delivered a streamlined 3-axis platform that brought high-precision laser alignment within reach of more facilities.
It marked the debut of Hamar Laser’s first production Dual-Fan™ Unidirectional laser system (two fan lasers, one direction), combining affordability with unmatched accuracy for its class. As the most capable entry-level system on the market at the time, the S-660 quickly became a trusted workhorse in facilities worldwide.
Couple5™
Released in 2009, Couple5 was designed for PDAs, offering enhanced portability for field technicians. Building on the capabilities of Couple4, it streamlined the alignment process and made data collection and analysis more efficient, allowing for faster and more accurate alignments in diverse industrial settings.
Couple6™
Launched in 2011, Couple6 represented a major step forward with advanced measurement capabilities and a modernized interface. It further simplified the alignment process, increased accuracy and repeatability, and supported a wider range of machinery, cementing its role as a leading tool for precision shaft alignment.
The X-Series™ Philosophy
Introduced
In 2021, Hamar Laser revolutionized shaft alignment again with the X-Series™, four models built around the end user. The 3-Axis X-660 and 5-Axis X-880 introduced our “Build Your Own” option for a fully customizable system, while the X-770 PRO and X-990 PRO delivers every application preloaded.
Whether tailored or ready-to-go, the X-Series™ offers unmatched precision, versatility, and upgradability in a market full of compromises.
Hamar Laser remains committed to pushing the boundaries of shaft alignment technology. Building on decades of “industry firsts,” our future systems will continue to combine unmatched precision with smarter, faster, and more connected features, integrating advanced sensors, AI-driven diagnostics, and seamless data sharing to further optimize machine performance.
As industries demand greater efficiency, reliability, and predictive maintenance capabilities, Hamar Laser will lead the way, ensuring that the next chapter in shaft alignment innovation is even more groundbreaking than the last.
Assumptions for this example: You have a 480 volt motor drawing 40 amps and operating 8400 hours/year. The Power Factor is .85. Electricity costs $0.06/kWhr. Also assume that the amp draw is measured before and after the alignment and it is found that there is a 1 amp difference.
kW =V* A*PF*1.732/1000
kW =480V* 1A*.85*1.732/1000
kW =.706 = power savings
Savings ($) = operating hours * kW savings * kW cost
Savings ($) = 8400 * .706 * $0.06/kWhr
Savings ($) = 8400 * .706 * $0.06/kWhr
Savings ($) = 355.82
If your plant has 80 similar motors, and if only half of them had the same amount of savings, it would total $355.82 * .5 = $14,232!
The coupling icons next to the data displays show the direction of the misalignment at the coupling and update as you move or shim the motor! You can also zoom in on the coupling to show them in the live display area of the screen.
