Abstract: A spinning ring member supported on an air bearing between the ring member and a ring holder, the air bearing being formed by an axial passageway between the ring holder and the ring member and upper and lower radial passageways. The upper radial passageway is open and unencumbered, and a barrier element is disposed directly in the path of the air flow through the lower radial passageway to interfere with and partially block such air flow, whereby pressurized air within the axial passageway will flow primarily through the upper radial passageway to impose a lifting force on the ring member. The upper and lower radial passageways are provided by upper and lower facing radial walls on the ring member and the ring holder, respectively, that have an equal axial spacing therebetween to provide simultaneous seating of the ring member at both radial walls when the ring member is at its inoperative or at rest position.