luftgelagerte

Luftgelagerte refers to components or systems that are supported and stabilized by a thin film of pressurized air between moving parts, allowing nearly contact-free motion. In this context, the term describes equipment that uses air bearings (Luftlager) to achieve high precision and low wear. The approach is widely used in precision engineering where mechanical contact would generate wear, heat, or distortion.

The operating principle relies on generating an air film that separates surfaces. This film is created by delivering compressed air through bearing surfaces with precisely shaped gaps, producing a controllable pressure distribution. The result is a separation gap in the micrometer to sub-micrometer range, which provides stiffness and damping while minimizing friction. Air bearings are generally categorized as aerostatic (externally pressurized by a compressor) or air bearings that are self-acting or aerodymic, depending on whether the pressure is supplied from outside or generated by motion.

Applications of luftgelagerte systems span high-precision machinery and metrology. They are commonly used in precision positioning stages, coordinate measuring machines, high-speed spindles, semiconductor lithography equipment, laser optics mounts, and other devices requiring smooth, vibration-suppressing motion and very low wear over long service intervals.

Advantages include very low friction, reduced wear, high repeatability, and the ability to operate without lubricants in some environments. They also offer high stiffness and good damping characteristics at high speeds. Limitations involve the need for a clean, dry gas supply, sensitivity to contaminants and temperature variations, limited load capacity compared to some solid bearings, and higher system complexity and cost. Proper enclosure and filtration are typically required to maintain performance.