Air Bearing System for Precision CMMs

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Air Bearing System

Definition

The Air Bearing System is a critical component of Precision Industrial Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) that enables the probe or measuring head to move with near-zero friction and vibration. It functions by emitting a thin film of compressed air between the moving element (such as a carriage or spindle) and its guide surface, creating a non-contact, frictionless bearing. This eliminates mechanical wear, stick-slip motion, and thermal deformation, which are essential for achieving the micron- or sub-micron level accuracy and repeatability required in high-precision dimensional metrology. The system is typically used in CMMs for measuring complex geometries with high accuracy. It is designed to operate with clean, dry air, and its performance depends on factors such as air pressure, bearing surface area, and the design of air flow channels. The system's load capacity ranges from 50 to 500 kg, travel length from 100 to 2000 mm, positioning accuracy from ±0.001 to ±0.01 mm, repeatability from ±0.0005 to ±0.005 mm, maximum speed from 0.5 to 5 m/s, operating pressure from 0.4 to 0.8 MPa (ISO 8573-1), air consumption from 10 to 100 L/min per bearing pad, stiffness from 50 to 500 N/µm, flatness and straightness over entire travel from 0.001 to 0.005 mm, operating temperature from 0 to 50 °C (non-condensing), air quality per ISO 8573-1 Class 3, and weight from 20 to 200 kg. Materials commonly used include granite, ceramic, stainless steel, and aluminum alloy. These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier. The system is a component, not a complete machine, and requires integration with a suitable guideway and control system. Proper installation, alignment, and maintenance are essential for optimal performance. Regular checks of air quality, pressure, and bearing surfaces are recommended to ensure consistent accuracy. The system is not suitable for environments with high humidity or contamination unless properly protected. Always consult the manufacturer's documentation for detailed specifications and safety guidelines.

Working Principle

Compressed, filtered air is supplied to the bearing pads or orifices. As the air escapes through small gaps, it creates a pressurized film that lifts and separates the moving component from the stationary guideway (e.g., granite base or guide rail). This air gap, typically a few microns thick, supports the load and allows for smooth, frictionless motion in multiple axes (X, Y, Z). The system's stiffness and load capacity are determined by air pressure, bearing surface area, and the design of the air flow channels.

Common Materials

Granite, Ceramic, Stainless Steel, Aluminum Alloy

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Load Capacity	50–500 kg	Depends on bearing size and air pressure
Travel Length	100–2000 mm	Custom lengths available
Positioning Accuracy	±0.001–±0.01 mm	Higher accuracy with closed-loop control
Repeatability	±0.0005–±0.005 mm	Depends on feedback system
Maximum Speed	0.5–5 m/s	Limited by air film stiffness
Operating Pressure	0.4–0.8 MPa	Clean dry air requiredISO 8573-1
Air Consumption	10–100 L/min	Per bearing pad
Stiffness	50–500 N/µm	Higher stiffness improves accuracy
Flatness	0.001–0.005 mm	Over entire travel
Straightness	0.001–0.005 mm	Over entire travel
Operating Temperature	0–50 °C	Non-condensing
Air Quality	ISO 8573-1 Class 3	Particle-free, oil-free, dryISO 8573-1
Weight	20–200 kg	Depends on size and configuration

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Bearing Pad/Orifice Plate
Distributes compressed air to create the lifting film. Contains precisely machined orifices or porous media.

Material: Stainless Steel or Ceramic
Guideway/Rail Part
Provides the ultra-flat, smooth reference surface against which the air bearing operates.

Material: Granite or Ceramic-coated Steel
Air Supply Manifold
Distributes filtered, regulated compressed air from the source to multiple bearing pads.

Material: Aluminum Alloy or Stainless Steel
Precision Air Filter/Regulator
Removes contaminants and moisture from the compressed air and maintains constant pressure.

Material: Stainless Steel, Synthetic Filter Media

Manufacturers of Air Bearing System

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical load capacity of an air bearing system?

The load capacity ranges from 50 to 500 kg, depending on bearing size and air pressure. Verify the exact value for your specific model with the manufacturer.

What air quality is required for the air bearing system?

The system requires clean, dry, particle-free, and oil-free air. According to the reference data, air quality should meet ISO 8573-1 Class 3. Always confirm with the supplier for your application.

Can the air bearing system be used in high-humidity environments?

The operating temperature range is 0 to 50 °C (non-condensing). High humidity may cause condensation, which can affect performance. It is recommended to control the environment or use additional protection as per manufacturer guidelines.

What maintenance is required for the air bearing system?

Regular maintenance includes checking air quality, ensuring proper air pressure, and inspecting bearing surfaces for contamination or damage. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for optimal performance.

Data Basis

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Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	0.2 to 0.8 MPa (2 to 8 bar)
flow rate:	10 to 100 L/min per bearing
temperature:	0°C to +50°C
slurry concentration:	Not applicable - clean, dry air required

Air Bearing System

Product Specifications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards