The hydraulic cylinder Division of Parker Hannifin has launched its latest range of HTR rack and pinion rotary actuators. The latest HTR actuators are designed to improve the performance and operational flexibility of a wide variety of loading and handling systems in the factory automation, process, construction and marine sectors.

The robust HTR actuators use proven tie rod cylinder technology, with cylinder pistons mounted on each end of a hardened steel toothed rack which engages with a rotary pinion shaft set at 90 degrees to the direction of piston stroke.

The complete unit is durable, with a housing manufactured from hardened alloy steel.

Just as importantly, all mechanical components are completely enclosed, making it safe to use and, unlike competing cylinder and crank arrangements, free of potential pinch points.

The standard range of HTR actuators can be supplied with pinion shafts capable of rotating through 90, 180, and 360-degree angles, while custom versions are available for any range of movement up to five full revolutions.

All models deliver uniform torque in both directions, ensuring high levels of motion control and performance.

Simple yet robust, the rack can be pre-loaded to eliminate the effects of backlash, providing excellent positional accuracy and repeatability.

Internal cushions are available to provide progressive deceleration, protecting machinery and materials from end of stroke impacts and reducing noise.

The cylinder piston is protected by polyurethane seals and PTFE O-rings, providing excellent sealing properties with minimal friction to reduce stiction and break away forces.

All HTR rotary actuators feature a drive pinion which is supported by large-capacity roller bearings, enabling each unit to accommodate high external radial and thrust loads, often avoiding the need for separate support bearings with corresponding cost and space savings.

The latest HTR rotary actuators are also available in double-rack versions, for high-torque applications up to 68,000Nm.