New Way® Air Spindles utilize Porous Media Technology™ to create a uniform cushion of air between the rotor and stator.

New Way® Air Spindles deliver a degree of precision not achievable with conventional rolling element bearings. With only one moving part and zero contact, sub-micron synchronous error motion is standard and asynchronous error is almost entirely eliminated.

Unlike the complex magnetically suspended or high-pressure oil lubricated systems common to other precision spindle designs, New Way air spindles suspend the rotor on a stiff layer of compressed air, providing frictionless motion without the added complication, and since the components are never in contact, mechanical wear is completely eliminated. This allows for faster rotation speeds and high-precision rotary motion with less interruption or possible down time.

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The New Way Air Spindles are very low flow and do not consume nearly the amount of air competing orifice air bearing technologies use. If airflow is somehow disrupted, gradual depressurization of the porous media allows for a soft landing that won’t damage the bearing or rotor surfaces, unlike orifice air bearing spindles which often require a complete rebuild after such failures.

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Clean Room Compliant

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The unique use of porous media in air spindles makes them ideal for clean room use. Not only is less air used in air spindles when compared to orifice-based air bearings, but the air is evenly distributed by the porous media. Both of these features minimize the potential of currents or eddies in the clean room and its damaging impacts on production.

Another benefit of the use of porous media is its ability to perform as a sub-micron filter for the air emitted. Testing indicates the bearing satisfies the requirements of Class 1 (ISO class 3) cleanliness, with airborne particulate concentrate limits of less than 1,000 x 0.1μm particles / m3.

All air spindles come in a variety of sizes and stator configurations to accommodate an array of rotary applications. Air spindles can be paired with a motor/encoder of your choice. Or, if you desire a fully integrated solution, New Way also offers Servo-Driven Rotary Stages.

In addition to our standard spindle designs, New Way is happy to work with you on your custom design as well. Contact New Way today to learn what we can do for you!