Design and performance evaluation of a 3D printed aerostatic bearing concept with high number of micro-orifices

This study suggests a 3D printed aerostatic bearing concept. The design has a high number of orifices distributed around the bearing to obtain smoother pressure distribution for performance. Inner channels are formed to connect and feed air to each orifice using the advantage of additive manufacturing. The concept is investigated numerically to determine the performance gain of the high number of orifices by calculating bearing stiffness and load carrying capacity. In order to validate the simulation and performance gain an experimental study is conducted by testing Stereolithography (SLA) type 3D printed bearings with various orifice numbers. The bearing stiffnesses and mass flow rates of the specimens are measured, and results are discussed in terms of performance by comparing numerical results. The 3D printed bearings concept has shown promising results in terms of performance while keeping air consumption limited compared to conventional air bearings.