6 - Hydrostatic Lubrication

Abstract

In this chapter, the mechanism of film generation in hydrostatic bearings together with methods of calculating basic bearing operational and design parameters are discussed. Commonly used methods of controlling the bearing stiffness are also outlined. Hydrostatic lubrication provides complete separation of sliding surfaces to ensure zero or negligible wear and very low friction. Hydrostatic lubrication is based on the same physical principles as hydrodynamic lubrication but has certain fundamental differences. There is no friction force at infinitesimal sliding speeds unlike hydrodynamic lubrication which is a uniquely useful characteristic in the design and operation of precision control systems. The disadvantage of hydrostatic lubrication is a complete reliance on an external pressurized supply of lubricant which means that the pump must be reliable and the supply lines free of dirt that might block the flow of lubricant. Hydrostatic lubrication with a gas, which is known as aerostatic lubrication, can provide very low friction even at extremely high sliding speeds because of the low viscosity of gases. Quasi-ideal characteristics of zero wear and friction are obtained with hydrostatic or aerostatic lubrication at low to medium contact stresses but a more complicated technology is required in comparison to other forms of lubrication.