The purpose of this study is to reveal the influence law of pressure-equalizing grooves on aerostatic bearings and improve the static performance of bearings by optimizing the distribution form of grooves.
In view of two kinds of common restrictor distribution forms on the thrust surface, the linear and the rectangular, six kinds of pressure-equalizing groove schemes were proposed – the line-shape, the extended-shape, the S-shape, the oblong-shape, the X-shape and the reticular-shape. Based on the analysis of lubrication theory of the orifice-type aerostatic bearing, the numerical simulations of different bearings were carried out. The pressure distributions and static characteristic curves of different bearings were obtained.
The study reveals that the adoption of the pressure-equalizing grooves can substantially improve the load capacity and static stiffness of the bearing and make the bearing maintain a uniform stress, which enhances operating accuracy and life of the bearing. The superior function of the reticular-shape groove is highlighted.
The research results can effectively guide the optimization design of aerostatic bearings and provide a crucial technical reference for application of ultra-precision aerostatic supporting system.
