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Abstract

In this study, fundamental aspects and mechanisms of acoustic levitation together with governing equations are presented first. Then, the acoustic levitation phenomenon is considered as a new way to design air suspension systems capable of self-levitation. A particular emphasis is laid on journal bearings and their specific geometrical configuration. A practical feasibility of using acoustic levitation to separate contacting surfaces is supported and illustrated by results of experimental testing of a number of prototype devices.

Keywords

Self-levitation squeeze-film action journal bearing linear bearing experimental validation

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Some fundamental aspects of self-levitating sliding contact bearings and their practical implementations

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