Moving Carriage / Saddle for Air Bearing Linear Systems

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Moving Carriage / Saddle

Definition

The moving carriage or saddle is a critical component within air bearing linear guide systems. It rides on a thin film of compressed air above the guide rail, serving as the interface between the stationary guide system and the moving load. This design enables ultra-smooth, frictionless linear motion with high precision and repeatability, making it suitable for precision manufacturing applications such as supporting machining heads, measurement probes, or other tooling. The carriage is typically manufactured from aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or ceramic composites, with surface treatments like hard anodizing to improve wear resistance. Key parameters include load capacity (500–2000 kg static, with lower dynamic loads), travel length (100–3000 mm, custom lengths available), positioning accuracy (±0.005–±0.02 mm per ISO 230-2), repeatability (±0.002–±0.01 mm per ISO 230-2), maximum speed (1–5 m/s), acceleration (10–50 m/s², higher acceleration reduces life), straightness and flatness (±0.005–±0.02 mm/m per ISO 230-1), operating temperature (5–40°C, below 5°C may affect air bearing), air supply pressure (0.4–0.8 MPa, clean dry air required per ISO 8573-1), air consumption (10–50 L/min per bearing pad), and weight (20–150 kg, depending on size and material). The standard material is aluminum 6061-T6 per ASTM B221, with optional steel or granite. These values are directory reference ranges and must be confirmed for the actual model and application. Always verify model-specific specifications and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.

Working Principle

The carriage/saddle floats on a thin film of compressed air supplied through precision orifices, creating an air bearing that eliminates mechanical contact and friction. As air pressure is maintained between the carriage and guide rail, it enables smooth, precise linear motion with minimal resistance and wear. The air film also provides a damping effect, reducing vibrations and improving positioning accuracy. The system requires a consistent supply of clean, dry air at the specified pressure to maintain the bearing gap and load capacity.

Common Materials

Aluminum alloy, Stainless steel, Ceramic composites

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Load Capacity	500–2000 kg	Maximum static load; dynamic load lower.
Travel Length	100–3000 mm	Custom lengths available.
Positioning Accuracy	±0.005–±0.02 mm	Depends on feedback system.ISO 230-2
Repeatability	±0.002–±0.01 mm	Bidirectional.ISO 230-2
Maximum Speed	1–5 m/s	Limited by acceleration and load.
Acceleration	10–50 m/s²	Higher acceleration reduces life.
Straightness	±0.005–±0.02 mm/m	Over full travel.ISO 230-1
Flatness	±0.005–±0.02 mm/m	Over mounting surface.ISO 230-1
Operating Temperature	5–40 °C	Below 5°C may affect air bearing.
Air Supply Pressure	0.4–0.8 MPa	Clean dry air required.ISO 8573-1
Air Consumption	10–50 L/min	Per bearing pad.
Material	Aluminum 6061-T6	Optional steel or granite.ASTM B221
Surface Treatment	Hard anodized	Improves wear resistance.MIL-A-8625 Type III
Weight	20–150 kg	Depends on size and material.

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

Air Bearing Pads
Generate and maintain the air film between carriage and guide rail

Material: Porous carbon or ceramic
Mounting Surface Part
Interface for attaching tools, sensors, or workpieces

Material: Hardened steel or aluminum
Air Supply Ports Part
Distribute compressed air to the bearing pads

Material: Stainless steel
Sealing Elements Part
Maintain air pressure within the bearing system

Material: Polyurethane or rubber
Compressed Air
The air film the carriage floats on between itself and the guide rail.

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Moving Carriage / Saddle.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Air Bearing / Linear Guide System

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Moving Carriage / Saddle

Manufacturer profiles associated with Moving Carriage / Saddle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical load capacity of this moving carriage?

The static load capacity ranges from 500 to 2000 kg, with dynamic loads being lower. The exact capacity depends on the model and application, so verify with the manufacturer.

What materials are available for the carriage?

Common materials include aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and ceramic composites. The standard material is aluminum 6061-T6, with optional steel or granite. Surface treatment such as hard anodizing may be applied for wear resistance.

What air supply is required?

Clean, dry air is required at a pressure of 0.4–0.8 MPa, per ISO 8573-1. Air consumption is 10–50 L/min per bearing pad. Ensure the air supply meets these specifications for proper operation.

How does temperature affect performance?

The operating temperature range is 5–40°C. Below 5°C, the air bearing may be affected, potentially reducing performance. Always operate within the specified range and confirm with the manufacturer for extreme conditions.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	0-10 bar
other spec:	Max velocity: 2 m/s, Max acceleration: 10 m/s², Load capacity: 500 N
temperature:	-20°C to +80°C

Moving Carriage / Saddle

Product Specifications

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards