Pneumatic rotary actuators use compressed air to produce circular motion, available in various sizes for different applications. They are part of pneumatic systems that rely on compressed air, with low profile models offering up to 30 pounds of torque. Heavy-duty models offer more torque and can handle heavier loads. They can operate in temperatures between -35°F and 180°F and have different characteristics such as proximity switches and adjustable flow control systems. Hybrid rotary actuators combine pneumatics and hydraulics for smoother control.
Rotary actuators produce a rotary motion, which is a circular rotation around an axis. A pneumatic rotary actuator uses compressed air as its power source rather than electricity or compressed fluid to produce that motion. These actuators are available in a variety of sizes and can be used for many different applications. Manufacturers usually build their pneumatic rotary actuators with high quality and durable materials such as hardened aluminum or steel.
Pneumatic systems are used extensively in several industries, in part due to the flexibility of compressed air and gases as energy sources. The pressurized air or gas in a pneumatic system offers great potential for mechanical motion, lending it to applications in the construction and operation of various engines and valves. Pneumatic rotary actuators are part of a class of pneumatic systems that rely on single sources of compressed air.
Most low profile pneumatic rotary actuators are designed to operate with payloads between one pound (0.44 kilograms) and 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms). The average one-pound (0.44 kilogram) pneumatic rotary actuator offers approximately five inch-pounds (0.56 Newton-meter) of torque. Thirty-pound (13.6 kilogram) models can offer approximately 250 inch-pounds (29 Newton-meters) of torque. Their small, compact design of the low profile models allows them to fit into more confined spaces.
While not offering a compact design, heavy-duty pneumatic rotary actuators offer other significant benefits. They produce much more torque than the smaller models and can handle much heavier loads. A high-output model can produce over 15,000 inch-pounds of torque (just under 1,800 Newton-meters).
Operating temperature range refers to the temperature range under which a pneumatic rotary actuator can operate effectively. Most pneumatic rotary actuator models can operate in temperatures between -35 degrees Fahrenheit (-30 degrees Celsius) and 180 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius). The standard rotations on most models are usually 45, 90 or 180 degree rotations.
Pneumatic rotary actuators can be designed with many different characteristics. Proximity switches monitor the end of rotation and adjustable flow control systems, allowing for smoother deceleration and maximum cycle times. Many pneumatic rotary actuators offer zero-backlash systems for precision rotary positioning; some models also include shock absorbers to ensure smooth deceleration.
Several manufacturers produce hybrid rotary actuators using pneumatics and hydraulics. Combining the simplicity of pneumatics with the smooth control offered by hydraulic systems, tandem rotary actuators are ideal for many applications. One end of these actuators feature closed-loop hydraulic controls while the other end provides pneumatic power.
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