Contact pressure distribution in guide bearings for pneumatic actuators

This paper deals with the analysis of the contact pressure distribution at the rod/guide bearing interface of a linear pneumatic actuator. The investigation was carried out both experimentally, using pressure-sensitive film, and numerically by means of finite element analysis. By using the numericalmodel, it was possible to identify design changes to the cylinder front head whereby contact pressure at the bearing/rod interface can be redistributed. Operating conditions that are more advantageous in terms of wear and durability can thus be achieved.