Air Bearing System

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.

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.