Key Takeaways:
Quick answers to the most common hydrostatic questions: does it need power, what oil cleanliness, can it run at low speed, how long does it last, and is it worth the cost?
Does a hydrostatic bearing need power?
Yes—an external pump supplies 1–10 MPa oil through restrictors. That pumped film is why it works even at zero speed with full stiffness.

What oil cleanliness is needed?
NAS 5 or better, because the film is only 3–10 μm thick. Filters are serviced about every 500 hours.
Can it run at very low speed?
Yes—unlike hydrodynamic bearings, hydrostatic support has no low-speed crawl, making it ideal for indexing and fine feed.
How long does it last?
Theoretically infinite life: with no contact wear, accuracy and stiffness stay constant; limits are oil quality and care, not the bearing.
Is it worth the cost?
For ultra-precision, vibration-sensitive, or long-duty work, the accuracy, stiffness, and life usually justify the higher upfront and energy cost. For coarse, high-speed, cost-driven duties, a simpler bearing may be better.