The disadvantages of gas-lubricated bearings
2025-09-14 08:21:14
Gas-lubricated bearings, while offering unique advantages in certain applications, come with several limitations that restrict their widespread use. One of the main challenges is their low load-carrying capacity compared to oil-lubricated bearings. Typically, gas-lubricated bearings have a load capacity that is 1 to 2 orders of magnitude lower. For example, oil-lubricated bearings can handle pressures between 0.5 to 2 MPa per unit area, whereas gas-lubricated bearings generally operate within a range of 0.02 to 0.04 MPa. This makes them unsuitable for high-load applications where mechanical strength and stability are critical.
Another significant drawback is their poor reliability. Gas-lubricated bearings are more prone to instability, such as air hammer vibrations and eddy-current-induced oscillations. These issues can lead to unpredictable performance and even catastrophic failure if not properly managed. Additionally, they may experience problems like shaft sticking or sudden snapping, which further reduces their dependability in critical systems.
The manufacturing process for gas-lubricated bearings is also more complex and costly. Due to the extremely thin gas film—often just a few micrometers thick—the precision required in component production is much higher. This increases both the cost and difficulty of manufacturing. Special features such as spiral grooves, throttling orifices, and porous materials are often necessary, adding to the complexity and expense of the design.
Moreover, gas-lubricated bearings demand strict working conditions. They require a clean environment free from contaminants that could disrupt the gas film or cause damage. Operators must follow precise procedures to ensure proper functioning, which limits their use in less controlled or industrial settings. These factors have contributed to the limited commercial adoption of gas-lubricated bearings, despite their potential benefits in specific scenarios.
This article is organized and published by the respirator pump team.
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