What are air bearings?

Air bearings are gaining prominence in modern industry for their unique advantages, especially in applications where speed, precision and stability are of paramount importance. Air bearings, also known as air floatation bearings, are sliding bearings that use a gas (usually air, but possibly other gases) as a lubricant. Compared with traditional rolling bearings or oil-film bearings, air bearings have many unique advantages, such as low friction, high temperature resistance and no pollution. These features make air bearings particularly suitable for use in high-speed machines, instruments and automotive installations, even though they have a lower load capacity than oil. 

Working principle and classification of air bearings

The operating principle of air bearings is based on the potential energy of air elasticity. By injecting high-pressure gas between the inner and outer rings of the bearing, an extremely thin film of air is formed, enabling the bearing and rotor to float on the film. This design greatly reduces friction and wear and improves the overall efficiency of the system. According to different working principles and application scenarios, air bearings can be classified into three main categories: aerostatic bearings, air dynamic bearings and extruded film bearings, of which aerostatic bearings are most widely used in industry.

Characteristics of air bearings

1. Low friction: air bearings use a film of pressurised gas to form a frictionless interface, which reduces friction between moving parts, improves system efficiency and reduces energy consumption. 

2. High speeds: Due to the low shear forces within air bearings, they are able to provide extremely high speeds while minimising power loss and generating very little heat. Speeds can exceed 300,000 rpm. 

3. High accuracy: Air bearings provide extremely high radial and axial rotational accuracy. As there is no mechanical contact, wear is minimised, thus ensuring that accuracy is always maintained. 

4. Stability: Air bearings maintain good stability over a wide range of speeds, making them suitable for applications requiring precise measurement or control. 

5. Durability: The materials and construction of air bearings enable them to adapt to high and low temperatures as well as radiant occasions, showing a unique superiority. 

6. Long life: Air bearings require no lubrication, reducing wear and tear and providing a long service life.

7. Environmental protection: air bearings do not require lubrication, which is conducive to environmental protection.

Other features of air bearings

1. air film thickness: air bearing air film thickness is usually between a few microns to tens of microns, with high load carrying capacity and stability.

2. Starting characteristics: air bearings can be started quickly because of the fast formation of the air film during start-up.

3. environmental adaptability: air bearings on the ambient temperature, humidity and other conditions have certain requirements, but a wide range of adaptation.

4. Bearing material: air bearing material is usually high-strength, high wear-resistant alloy steel or ceramic.

5. Air source requirements: Air bearings require a clean, dry air source to ensure normal operation.

Orient Auto Part Company: Professional Supplier of Air Bearings

Among many air bearing suppliers, Orient Auto Part Company has become a leader in air bearings for high-speed applications by virtue of its professional technical strength, rich product line and excellent service. As a supplier specialising in automotive and precision mechanical components, Orient Auto Part Company understands the importance of air bearings in enhancing equipment performance and extending service life.

The company not only has advanced production equipment and testing methods, but also has a team of experienced engineers who can provide customised air bearing solutions for customers. Whether it's semiconductor processing equipment, PCB drilling machines, or other industrial equipment that requires high-speed, high-precision operation, Orient Auto Part Company has the air bearing products to meet the needs.

In addition, Orient Auto Part Company also focuses on after-sales service, providing customers with comprehensive technical support and timely supply of spare parts to ensure a worry-free experience during use. It is this customer-focused service concept that has earned Orient Auto Part Company a good reputation and wide recognition in the industry.

In summary, air bearings, as the precision choice for high-speed applications, are gradually changing the face of traditional industrial manufacturing. And Orient Auto Part Company, as a professional air bearing supplier, will continue to contribute to the high-speed development of the industrial field with its excellent products and services.