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Air bearings
How air bearings work
As shown in the sketch below, compressed air enters the diaphragm through the air supply port, inflating it and balancing the load. (Internal pressure is determined by dividing the load by the surface area of the diaphragm.) Next, the air stored in the diaphragm leaks through small holes, traveling out through the space between the diaphragm and floor surface. As the air leaks out, an extremely thin air film is formed, thereby creating an air lubricating effect. This is what we call "air bearing."
A technology to move things with 99.9% less force
Friction reduced to 1/1,000
The super low friction coefficient of 0.001 allows heavy objects to be moved with an extremely small amount of force.
Freedom of movement
Objects can be freely rotated and moved in any direction on the floor.
1,000 tons and more
Any heavy object (over 1,000 tons) can be transported by floating it with air (0.15 - 0.35 MPa).
Easy installation
Since the load is supported by pressure, a simple frame is sufficient, enabling easy installation.
Moving on a wet floor
Maintenance-free
No maintenance is required, and there are no sliding parts that require lubrication.
Thin design
Air bearings themselves are very thin (approx. 30 mm even for a 300 kN unit) and do not require vertical space. As long as there is a small clearance, they can be inserted beneath existing equipment for immediate use once the air source is connected.
No floor damage
There is no need to worry about wear and tear since objects are transported while being floated with air, not to mention damages to the floor.
Clean design
Air bearings do not cause environmental pollution, as they are noise-free, clean, sanitary, dust-proof and vibration free, with almost no air disturbance around them.
Moving on a floor with powder on it
Features of air bearings
Air bearing (frameless)
A frameless air bearing. Customers can use it by installing it on a frame manufactured by the customer and attaching required power and air supplies. Always use at least four units in combination.
Air bearing models
Oval air bearing
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Figures for air consumption (flow rate) and lift height assume the use of black steel plate for the floor surface.
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Air consumption and lift height vary depending on the weight of the object being transported and the travel surface.
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Resin-coated concrete or steel plating floor is recommended for the standard models, while steel plating floor is recommended for medium and high pressure models.
Round (Square) / Oval
Oval and S-type round air bearings allow air bearing cassettes to be replaced while the load is in place.
Replacement methods
Round (Circular)
C-type round air bearings are fastened directly to the frame using a center bolt.