The accuracy of machine tools is limited by many factors,such as geometric and thermal errors. Current error reduction approaches include e.g. volumetric compensation. However, if a machine tool has only linear axes, angular errors cannot be compensated since there is no controllable axis that could change the tool or workpiece inclination. Therefore, an actively controlled hydrostatic guideway was developed to compensate for angular and other geometric errors. This paper aims to experimentally verify the hybrid use of constant resistance and the pilot stage of an industrial proportional pressure relief valve for regulation of oil flow through hydrostatic pockets and control of these pockets as well as active compensation of machine tool geometric errors. The error reduction of the tested linear axis is presented.
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