Spindle assembly with externally pressurised gas bearing

摘要

A spindle assembly has a spindle 32 supported by a single journal bearing 33 having a large bearing width. The journal bearing is formed near both ends thereof with a plurality of circumferentially arranged gas supply restrictor nozzles 37. The spindle is supported by supplying compressed gas to the bearing clearance around the spindle. This arrangement prevents the spindle from running out of true. A pair of externally pressurised gas thrust bearings 35, 36 may also be provided. IMAGE