Abstract:
The ram is supported through a hydrostatic type bearing support assembly mounted on a main frame. The support bearings are formed with a unique arrangement of hydrostatic pressure pad slots and hydrodynamic stepped end sections to center the ram with constantly pressurized and flowing oil films supplied through the pressure pad slots. The hydrodynamic bearing sections provide hydrodynamic support at high reciprocating speeds and the pressure pad slots provide hydrostatic support at lower reciprocating speeds that occur at the end of the working and return strokes of the ram. A piston and cylinder arrangement mounted to the bearing housing imparts a deflection force against the ram, between the end bearings and through a center bearing, to counteract gravitational vertical deflection of the unsupported working end of the ram. A cardan type crank drive mechanism for converting rotational input force into straight line reciprocating movement of an output shaft is also disclosed.