Design of a low cost hydrostatic bearing

Abstract

This thesis presents the design and manufacturing method for a new surface self compensating hydrostatic bearing. A lumped resistance model was used to analyze the performance of the bearing and provide guidance on laying out the bearing features. One arrangement of bearing features was cut into a flat sheet of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene which was then formed into a cylindrical shape. The shaped plastic was adhered to an aluminum housing then connected to a pump. Experimental data shows that the lumped resistance model provides a good estimation of the bearing performance. After validating the analytical model, sensitivity studies were conducted to predict changes in the bearing performance due to manufacturing variances. The results of the model indicate the design is extremely robust.