Classification of Machine Tool Guideways—Sliding Guideways
Manufacturer of Precision Machined Parts
The evolution of traditional guideways is primarily reflected in the design of sliding elements and guideway configurations. A key characteristic of sliding guideways is the use of a medium between the guideway and the sliding element; the different configurations result from the selection of various media. Hydraulics are widely used in many guideway systems.
Hydrostatic guideways are one such type. Under pressure, hydraulic oil enters the grooves of the sliding element, forming an oil film between the guideway and the sliding element that isolates them from one another, thereby significantly reducing the friction of the moving element. Hydrostatic guideways are extremely effective for heavy loads and provide compensation for eccentric loads. Another type of guide that uses oil as a medium is the hydrodynamic guide. The key difference between hydrodynamic and hydrostatic guides is that the oil does not act under pressure; instead, it relies on the oil’s viscosity to prevent direct contact between the moving element and the guide. The advantage of this design is that it eliminates the need for a hydraulic oil pump. Air can also be used as the medium between the moving element and the guide, resulting in two forms: pneumatic hydrostatic guides and pneumatic hydrodynamic guides, both of which operate on the same principles as hydraulic guides.
