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Our high quality manufacturers provide products to help optimize the safety and efficiency of your press systems, including shock dampers (or impact dampers), rod-locking devices, hyla-lift die splitter cart, and more.

Press Products

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Hänchen Hydraulic Cylinders

We offer a variety of specialty hydraulic cylinders for many industrial and mobile applications, including on and offshore oil industry, injection molding machines, locks and dams, steel industry, testing equipment and more. Cylinders are available in different types such as telescopic, servo cylinders high frequency oscillating, large bore, long stroke, etc.

red hydraulic cylinders

One of the largest testing ranges in the market, offering lightweight models for static applications or high frequency cylinders for dynamic testing.

Standard Hydraulic Cylinders with a wide variety of standard dimensions, connections, and mounting options.

Rod Locking Devices are a safety holding device that prevents movement until released by hydraulic pressure.

Custom Cylinders can be specifically tailored to almost any requirements you can imagine.


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What Makes Us Different?

100% German-Made

100% made in Germany with incredible attention to detail to your exact specifications ensuring a perfect fit for your application.

Largest Testing Range

Largest testing range in the marketing, offering lightweight servo actuators for static applications or high frequency cylinders for dynamic testing.

Custom Fit

Bores adjustable to the millimeter, meaning your cylinder is built from a solid block of steel (320 series) including no leakage, long service life, and good data.


hydraulic test cylinder hanchen heavy-duty testing cylinder for dynamic applications

What are Test Cylinders?

Test cylinders are used extensively in the testing sector and can be used for checking the functional safety of systems, component parts or products, for structural testing of airplanes, refrigeration compressors, automobile exhaust systems, or for simulating loads and movements, such as operational profiles and flight profiles.

Benefits

  • High speeds and lateral forces up to 4 m/s (157 in/s)
  • High stability and rigidity, as the entire cylinder body is machined from one solid block of steel (in 320 series)
  • Compact design and more force in a smaller space compared to electric actuators
  • No leak oil pump design

Stick-Slip in Hydraulic Cylinders

Our Hydrostatic Design


Hydraulic Test Cylinders are used in a wide variety of applications including automotive testing such as lifecycle tests, aerospace system tests such as load and environmental condition simulation, and fluid power operating condition simulation.

Automotive

Servo hydraulic lifecycle tests are the current industry standard for automobile components that are used far beyond safety-related structural elements. Users can depend on hydraulic test actuators for high positioning accuracy and reliability in applications for test systems and real time control. A test cylinder with a dynamic lift of up to 35 mm (1.3 in.), speed of 1.3 m/s (51.2 in/s), and acceleration of up to 50 m/s (1968.5 in/s) could be used for a test load requiring up to 28 kN (6,294 lbf) and a frequency up to 20 Hz.

Aerospace

System tests that simulate loads and environmental conditions in different flight phases are particularly demanding. To test the landing flaps and slats, servo hydraulic cylinders could be used here to replicate the airflow that involves rapidly changing forces with irregular parameters. For example, a servo cylinder with a bore between 40 to 160 mm (1.5 to 6.2 in.) could be used for a test stand with a holding force between 140 – 300 kN (31.4 to 67.4 lbf) and a stroke requirement of 300 to 1,670 mm (11.8 to 65.7 in.). 

Fluid Power

To determine the characteristic values of a seal, seal test benches are suitable for simulating a wide range of operating conditions. Double rod cylinders could be used here for fatigue tests focused on examining the frictional force of the seals, tightness on rods and shafts.


Lightweight versus heavyweight applications

Series 120 and 300 are a lightweight servo actuator perfect for static applications, while Series 320 features a hydrostatic design that is constructed for high frequency dynamic testing. Read more information on Test Cylinders here.

Yes!

We offer both replacement parts for specific cylinders as well as the ability to replace cylinders based on part numbers, so long as they are still in stock. If you have a part number, reach out to us here for more information or a quote.

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Hydraulic motors

These hydraulic motors are provided by Jahns. The addition of this product range to their catalog gives them a greater manufacturing depth and guarantees a higher-level of product quality. The company utilizes CNC machining centers to manufacture products in small batches. All products are checked in their test facilities before they leave the plant.

jahns logo

Hydraulic Flow Dividers

Hydraulic flow dividers synchronize cylinders and motors. Gear flow dividers cover 95% of applications with errors as low as ±1.5–4%. Other options include flow divider valves (±4–5%), radial piston dividers (±0.5–0.8%), and volumetric dividers (zero error). 

blue jahns flow divider hydraulic

Flow rate: up to 58 gpm (219 lpm). Pressure up 4,600 psi (317 bar). Sync error: ±1.5 to ±4%. Available in 2 to 12 sections. Most popular model.

Flow rate: up to 145 gpm (548 lpm). Pressure up 3,500 psi (241 bar). Sync error: ±0.5 to ±0.8%. Available in 2 to 12 sections.

Flow rate: up to 79 gpm (298 lpm). Pressure up to 6,100 psi (420 bar). Sync error: nearly 0%. Available in 3 to 8 sections.

Flow rate: up to 39 gpm (150 lpm). Pressure up to 5,075 psi (349 bar). Sync error: ±4 to ±5%. Available in 2 sections only.

Flow Rate: 3.1 gpm (12 lpm). Pressure up to 3,045 psi (209 bar). Available in 2 sections only.


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flow divider chart for accuracy

What Makes Us Different?

High Synchronization

Precise synchronization: Accuracy as low as ±0 to 0.5% error for applications needing high precision

Fast Shipping

Fast lead times: Fast and flexible shipping. Standard lead times of 4-6 weeks with expedited delivery in less than one week.

Greater Capabilities

Capable of handling bigger pressure differences between sections than other leading brands.


What are Flow Dividers?

When you have multiple motors or cylinders connected to one pump, they cannot operate simultaneously because power is not evenly distributed to each component. Flow dividers simplify this problem by splitting the flow from one source into two or more output parts, which can be equal or unequal.

Flow Divider Benefits

  • Flexible performance based on cost and accuracy 
  • Low-cost requirements: ±4 to 5% sync error  
  • General, standard applications: ±1.5 to 4% sync error 
  • Extremely high tolerances: ±0 to 0.8% sync error  
  • High pressure models: cast iron housing allows for high pressure and ruggedness 
  • Synchronize multiple components: 2 to 12 sections for up to 12 actuators  
  • Add system protection: optional pressure relief valves depending on system design
  • Simple plumbing: inlet ports are internally joined, so not every inlet requires external piping (though recommended for best flow division)  

Common Designs

The most common designs include the gear-type and spool design. For applications requiring extremely high accuracy (greater than 99%), radial piston and volumetric designs work best.

Gear (2 to 12 sections): Gear flow dividers are a cost-effective way to divide flow without losing a large amount of energy or heat. Comparatively to spool dividers, these devices are more tolerant of contamination. 

Spool (2 sections): This design relies on pressure compensation to divide flow and is limited to just two sections that can be split evenly, 50:50, or unequally. These are well-suited for applications where synchronization is flexible and complete accuracy is not a requirement. 

Radial piston (2 to 12 sections): These are designed with high accuracy in mind, but have higher pressure drops than gear.

Volumetric (3 to 8 sections, 2 to 12 chambers): The volumetric design functions by volume dosage and the exchange between a volume synchronizer and working cylinders. The volumetric design is for high accuracy applications and has lower pressure drops compared to radial piston dividers. 


hydraulic radial piston flow divider by jahns

Radial Piston Flow Divider

1. Main Specifications

First, identify the following parameters to match performance and sizing with system demands. This includes: 

  • Number of sections
  • Input flow rate to flow divider
  • Operating pressure

2. Determine Application Accuracy and Model

Next, determine how much accuracy is required.

While flow dividers are precision components, some degree of synchronization error is normal. In short-stroke applications (where the cylinder travels a limited distance per cycle), a small percentage of error is often negligible and unlikely to affect performance. However, in long-stroke applications, even a small percentage of synchronization error can accumulate across the full cylinder travel, potentially leading to misalignment, uneven load sharing, and increased mechanical stress.

Models Based on Accuracy

Gear flow dividers are the standard choice for general operations. For applications demanding higher precision, consider radial piston or volumetric dividers. Divider valves can be used for applications that allow lower accuracy.

Divider Valves

Only for 2 flows/sections. Compact, economical model. Accuracy between ±4–±5%.

Gear Flow Dividers

Most popular and cost-effective model. Accuracy between ±1.5–±4%. 

Radial Piston Flow Dividers

Tighter tolerances than gear models with larger pressure drops, accuracy between ±0.5–0.8%. Input flow rates starting at 13 gpm (50 lpm).

Volumetric Flow Dividers

Highest precision model, designed for applications requiring near perfect accuracy (no error).

The chart below compares synchronization accuracy across different models of flow and volumetric dividers.

The first ring splits dividers into groups: flow (light blue) and volume (dark blue). The second ring shows the type of divider. Flow dividers options include divider valves, gear, and radial piston while volumetric dividers include multi-chamber and linear stroke designs. The outer ring lists specific series models with their synchronization error.

As you follow the chart clockwise, accuracy improves with the level of error decreasing. For example, the MKA and MKS divider valves have an error of 4–5%. The next model, HTO gear divider, has better accuracy with errors as low as 3-4%. 


Choose your flow divider series based on sections, flow, and pressure. Then, refine by synchronization accuracy. 

Series

Model

Material

Sections

Flow Rate

Pressure

Sync Error

Divider Valves

MKA

Aluminum

2

0.53 up to 39 gpm
(2 to 150 lpm) 

3,045 psi (210 bar) 

±4 – 5% 

Divider Valves

MKS

Steel

2

0.53 up to 39 gpm
(2 to 150 lpm) 

5,000 psi (350 bar) 

±4 – 5% 

Gear

MTO

Aluminum

2 to 12

16 gpm (60 lpm) 

3,625 psi (249 bar) 

±1.5 – 2% 

Gear

MTO

Cast Iron

2 to 12

58 gpm (219 lpm) 

3,900 psi 
(268 bar) 

±3 – 4% 

Gear

HTO

Cast Iron

2 to 12

37 gpm (140 lpm) 

4,600 psi (317 bar) 

±3 – 4% 

Radial Piston

MTL

Steel

2 to 12

66 gpm (249 lpm) 

3,500 psi (317 bar) 

±0.5 – 0.8% 

Radial Piston

STL

Steel

2 to 12

105 gpm (397 lpm) 

3,500 psi 
(241 bar) 

±0.5 – 0.8% 

Radial Piston

MT-GM

Steel

2 to 12

145 gpm (548 lpm) 

3,500 psi 
(241 bar) 

±0.5 – 0.8% 

Volumetric

MLH

Steel

3 to 8

50 cm³ up to 12,300 cm³ (3.1 in³ up to 750.6 in³) 

3,600 psi 
(241 bar) 

No sync error

Volumetric

MZB

Steel

2 to 12
(chambers)

79 cm³ up to 40,000 cm³ (4.8 in³ up to 2440.9 in³) 

3,600 psi (241 bar) or for special builds 6,100 psi (420 bar)

No sync error


Some common applications include synchronizing fluid motors and hydraulic cylinders, and intensifying pressure in hydraulic pumps. Our flow dividers are available with or without pressure relief valves to protect hydraulic systems from excessively high pressures. 

Synchronization

In the case where multiple cylinders need to move something in sync, flow dividers offer a great solution. This is useful, for example, in lifting platforms, where the platform must remain level to prevent binding in the guiding mechanisms as well as for the objects on top of the platform.

Pressure Multiplication

Flow dividers can be utilized as a pressure multiplier. This type of hydraulic circuit can be used where a low-pressure circuit is already in use and where there is only need of high-pressure flow. 

Hydraulic Driving

This is achieved by adding an extra section of equal or greater displacement to the flow divider. The return line of this section is connected directly to tank so that it in effect works as a motor for the other sections thereby increasing their outlet pressures. 


4-6 weeks.

There is a standard lead time of 4-6 weeks on gear and radial piston flow dividers with optional expedited shipping. For specific models, please reach out to us directly at sales@icfluid.com.

Check the flow divider and reset it as required (page 3-4). This adjustment is necessary at periodic intervals to ensure proper synchronization. Refer to page 5 for a schematic example and an explanation of synchronization compensation.

HLP, HFC, HFD, and HFA are all compatible fluids to be used in operation with flow dividers.

No, flow dividers do not work with telescopic cylinders.

Typically, the most common installation is on the piston side where the flow needs to be divided. However, both are possible.   
 
Keep in mind: If the piston side corresponds to the maximum oil flow, then the flow divider on the rod side could be undersized when the cylinders are retracted using the same oil flow.

Set the integrated pressure valves to the cylinder’s working pressure plus 20 bar (290 psi). Ensure the system’s pressure relief valve is set above this value. 

Check the pressure drop (Δp) across piping, valves, and the flow divider. 

*If using a flow divider with valves to drive hydraulic motors, set those valves to their maximum.*

No, flow dividers are not designed to function as a load holding device. Additional components, such as pilot-operated check valves need to be included after the flow divider. 

20-30% charge

We offer expedited manufacturing from 1-day manufacturing at a 30% charge or 3-day manufacturing at a 20% charge, plus shipping time on gear and radial flow dividers, depending on production capabilities and availability.

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Hydraulic Rotary Actuators

Customize a hydraulic rotary actuator to your application or replace it with a drop-in model. Choose from our high-quality, German made actuators or fast, reliable replacements designed for leading brands like Helac.

Eckart rotary actuators custom-designed to meet specific needs, hydraulic rotary actuators provide durability and dependability.

IC Series rotary actuators are compact hydraulic actuators with high torque and bearing capacity with short lead times and flexible shipping methods.

Eckart rotary actuators hydraulic


With decades of experience, Eckart can design and build a quality rotary actuator to your specifications.

The SM4 rotary actuator with an operating pressure of up to 250 bar offers rotary movement with a compact footprint.

The E3 with a maximum operating pressure of 210 bar, is designed for, but not limited to, mobile applications where a flange shaft is desirable.

The E1 rotary actuator with an operating pressure of up to 100 bar offers rotary movement with a compact footprint.

The HyRAV® valve actuator is tailored perfectly to your needs. HyRAV by Eckart, comprises a full series of double-acting or spring return actuators.

The HSE4 rotary-linear actuator combines an independently controllable dual acting cylinder with a rotary actuator.

The PSM2 pneumatic rotary actuator is most suited to applications in small installation spaces with low weight specs.

pneumatic rotary actuators — PHSE rotary-linear actuator

The Eckart PHSE pneumatic rotary-linear actuator is a combination of a rotary actuator and a dual-action linear cylinder.

Most compact rotary actuator in the IC Series.

Mid-size option, balancing torque and space.

Highest torque model with high bearing capacity.

Designed for the refuse/waste and recycling tipper market.

Optional load holding valves for intermediate position holding and over center conditions.

A drop-in replacement with fast lead times. Find your replacement part number here.


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What Makes Us Different?

Helical Spline Technology

Helical gear rotary actuators are designed with space in mind and are suitable for many applications needing a compact solution.

Fast, Ready Drop-Ins

The IC Series can be used as a drop-in replacement to Helac’s rotary actuators and offers quick lead times of 20-26 weeks (or 10-14 weeks with expedited shipping.)

Customized Solutions

70% of Eckart’s rotary actuators are custom-designed to meet customer needs. Tell us your application and we will present you with an optimal solution.


Hydraulic Rotary Actuator Technical Overview

Refer to the chart below to find the correct model based on pressure, rotation, and torque.

Eckart Rotary Actuators

For more help choosing an Eckart rotary actuator, go to How to Choose an Eckart Rotary Actuator. 

ModelPressuresMax TorqueSizesRotation
SM4
(Most popular model, custom options)
3,625 psi
(250 bar)
up to 2,200,000 Ibs-in (250,000 Nm)13 standard sizes, customStandard rotation: 90°/180°/270°/360°
Custom and intermediate angles
E1
(Standard model with custom options)
1,450 psi
(100 bar)
up to 22,000 lbs-in
(2,500 Nm)
5 standard sizes, customStandard rotation: 90°/180°/270°/360°
Custom and intermediate angles
E3
(Standard model)
3,045 psi
(210 bar)
up to 31,800 lbs-in
(3,600 Nm)
5 sizes180°, 360°

IC Series Rotary Actuators

ModelPressuresMax TorqueSizesRotation
IC103,045 psi (210 bar)up to 23,890 Ibs-in (2,700 Nm)6 sizes180°, 360°
IC203,045 psi (210 bar)up to 37,170 Ibs-in (4,200 Nm)5 sizes180°
IC303,045 psi (210 bar)up to 212,410 Ibs-in (24,000 Nm)8 sizes180°, 360°
IC403,045 psi (210 bar)up to 59,290 Ibs-in (126,650 Nm)3 sizes200°, 220°

Eckart Hydraulic Rotary Actuator E3

What are Hydraulic Rotary Actuators?

In its simplest form, a hydraulic rotary actuator is a device that uses hydraulic fluid to generate rotary motion without a linkage. These devices come in handy when applications call for any form of transporting, securing, or positioning of parts.

How do Hydraulic Rotary Actuators Work?

In terms of design, hydraulic rotary actuators are most often configured as vane type, rack-and-pinon type, or helical spline actuators.

IC-Fluid Power’s rotary actuators are the helical spline design. This means, a piston and a helix, or sliding spline, work together to convert the linear motion of the piston into rotational motion. Helical spline actuators function when the piston is axially displaced using hydraulic pressure causing simultaneous rotation of the piston.

Hydraulic rotary actuators are typically designed to operate at low speeds and produce high torque through arc lengths ranging between 90°, 180°, 270°, and 360°. They also can be configured up to 720° or more by making the spline gears longer while maintaining the same diameter.

Hydraulic Rotary Actuator Benefits

  • Standard rotations of 90°, 180°, 220°, 270°, and 360° with custom options (some rotations vary by model)
  • Flexible actuator configurations with various shaft, bottom, and mounting styles
  • Adjust starting and end positioning by ±5° depending on the model.
  • Integral four-point bearing support (E3/SM4) and two-point bearing support (E1) for reduced friction
  • Available highly effective end cushioning may eliminate the need for expensive servo and proportional valves (optional).
  • Compact, low maintenance design due to helical spline technology,
  • Wear resistant moving parts with gas nitro-carburized and oxidized surfaces for a longer service life.
  • Available optional position feedback and monitoring for automation and testing applications.

Different actuator models typically depend on the system’s operating pressure. This is why it’s important to know the pressure required, along with other key factors including load capacity, rotation angle, rotation speed, and more.

Operating Pressure

First, determine the operating pressure. This is important to ensure the actuator is rated for the system pressure being used.

Torque

The amount of torque helps determine how the actuator will perform and how much it can handle, especially in terms of load capacity. The higher the torque output, the more load capacity the device will have.

Dynamic Movement

Next, determine if the rotary actuator will be used in highly dynamic applications, such as torque/torsion testing. If so, end-cushioning is important to have, along with a servo valve that can be mounted to the actuator to offer more control to the device.

End-Cushioning

End-cushioning is an important factor to consider for highly dynamic applications, such as when the actuator needs to function as an end stop in a load. End-cushioning acts as a hydraulic break to slow down the movement of the actuator so that it doesn’t slam into the end position causing damage to the device or the workpiece. The end-cushioning effect can be finely tuned using built-in orifices and set screws.

Mounting

Actuators can be mounted in different ways, along with different shaft styles. The actuator might have a flange mount, foot mount, or threaded holes in the actuator body. The shaft could be male or female with spline, key, or other shapes; as well as flange style.

Temperature

Typical hydraulic systems operate in an oil temperature range from -4°F to +240°F (-20°C to +60°C) in the same range. Actuators operate in the same range. If actuators need to operate above or below the standard temperature range, then special steels or special seal material may need to be used.

Mediums

The same applies to different mediums. Different mediums could require non-standard seals and different actuator materials.

Side Loads

If the application and actuator have side loads, the side loads need be absorbed separately from the actuator, or the actuator needs to be designed to accommodate the side loads. This is often done through the use of bearings. Eckart usually includes 4-point contact bearings as standard.

General Applications

Finally, it’s important to understand the general application. For example, will the device be going offshore? This might require special paint and special seals to protect the actuator from harsh seawater environments. As mentioned above, it’s important to know if the actuator will be used in testing applications, as special attention would be needed to make low-friction seals and a servo valve adapter plate.


Actuator Configuration and Rotation

  • Select drive shaft style, bottom, mounting, and port type configurations
  • Change direction of rotation (counterclockwise)
  • Choose non-standard rotations of custom and intermediate angles (above 360°)
  • Add a long-range adjustable end stop to extend adjustment pas the standard ±5°

Performance

  • Request a higher operating pressure (above 250 bar)
  • Add extra bearing support for high-load applications
  • Modify standard end cushioning for even more motion control (up to 10 orifices)
  • Choose advanced backlash reduction (as low as 5 angular minutes)

Position and Feedback

  • Add encoders, proximity switches, and sensors
  • Connect vales directly to the actuator

Protection

  • Add special seals, lake or saltwater protection, and certifications (ATEX, DNV, ABS, etc.)

From manipulating the angle of a boom in construction applications to opening or closing flaps in the aircraft and aerospace industries, rotary actuators are dependable and durable devices used for a wide range of uses.

Simple Tool Changes

Gate Valve Control

Tipping Devices

Simple Tool Changes

Hydraulic otary actuators can function as simple tool changers. One example of this is using a rotary-linear actuator for a pallet changer that weighs 1,000 kg. This device is a combination of a rotary actuator and a dual-action linear cylinder, allowing for full flexibility in a minimal amount of space. Since the rotary actuator and the linear cylinder are hydraulically driven separately, any movement sequences can be selected: for example, rotating to the left and right, extending linearly, and retracting. 

Gate Valve Control

A hydraulic rotary actuator could also be used for gate valve control too. While a rotary actuator may be more expensive than pneumatic actuators, these devices have a higher level of precision, require less space, and can achieve high torque outputs. Other uses for rotary actuators include linear actuation, bending machines, work piece positioning, rotational devices, and transport applications. 

Tipping Devices

One common application is using a hydraulic rotary actuator for tipping devices. A helical rotary actuator, for example, would be a suitable option for bin tippers in waste management applications due to its high torque in a compact package.

Other Uses

Other uses for hydraulic rotary actuators include linear actuation, bending machines, work piece positioning, rotational devices, and transport applications.


See firsthand how customers have used hydraulic rotary actuators in their applications


Absolutely!

There is a wide variety of custom rotary actuators to choose from. Depending on your application, make, model, and necessary requirements, we can custom make anything you need. In fact, over 75% of Eckart rotary actuator orders ARE custom orders with perfectly specified specifications for a custom fit just for you. Request a quote here.

90°, 180°, 270°, and 360°

We provide a wide range of standard rotation degrees, including 90°, 180°, 270°, and 360°. For specialized applications, like bin tippers, we offer 220°. We also offer up to 720º of rotation. Custom configurations are available through Eckart to help meet any degree you need.

Lead times vary depending on make, model, and manufacturer.

Readily stocked, drop-in actuators such as popular IC Series models can have lead times as fast as 10 weeks. Custom-built Eckart rotary actuators can be made to order to your specific needs, requiring longer lead times such as 30 weeks. For a more tailored lead time, reach out to us at 877.ICFLUID or sales@icfluid.com for a quick response from our inside sales engineer team.

1

We are a small, intimate company in Rossford, OH with many capabilities. One of those is flexibility. We accept orders for rotary actuators between 1 and as many as we can manufacture and ship. If you’re unsure, please give us a call at 877.ICFLUID or email us at sales@icfluid.com.

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