bearing type and lubrication for static friction minimization

[bendhoward]

I am designing a 3 DOF minimal friction mount (like a globe stand) for an approximately 2kg device and am looking for a bearing solution that will provide the lowest possible static friction and dynamic friction at very low rates of speed (~1 rpm).

I was wondering if there is a specific type of bearing known for these properties or whether there is a bearing lubricant that would fit the bill.

Thanks in advance.

- Ben

 

[unclesyd]

You might want to look at the Kinematic approach. We had one group that use kinematics for a similar application where we need a very precise motion at around 1 rpm/hr.
I definately would give Bal-Tec a call.

http://precisionballs.com/all_cat105b.php#page1

 

[Tmoose]

lowest possible friction?
Air bearing or hydrostatic

http://www.ap.smu.ca/demonstrations/images/stories/Pics/fluids/bernoulli/float ball.jpg

http://www.practicalphysics.org/imageLibrary/jpeg400/727.jpg

 

[caoimhin1]

Or for low cost option, an open deep groove ball bearing with a few drops of light oil as lubrication.
All depends on speed, applied load etc etc.

 

[bendhoward]

Thanks, this is helpful. I decided not to go the air bearing / hydrostatic route since this is a relatively short term low cost project. I'm also not quite sure how the bernoulli's principle diagrams apply to air bearings.

 

[Tmoose]

I suspected you didn't really mean "lowest possible static friction and dynamic friction"