This review outlines the highpoints in the development of hydrostatic and hybrid bearing technology from early plane and cylindrical designs to the wide range of configurations now utilized. The last 20 years have seen increasing sophistication of software for bearing analysis accompanied by application of hybrid bearings to more demanding situations, involving high loads, high speeds and high accuracy. The emphasis in this review is on advances in the realization of the distinctive characteristics of this important group of bearings and on the selection of the design approach for different situations. Applications discussed range from measuring and machine tools to aerospace and heavy power generation equipment. Aspects covered include load coefficients, film stiffness, flow control, hydro-dynamic effects and dynamic behaviour.
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