Lightweight Hydraulic Low-Speed, High-Torque Motors

Hydraulic motors are devices that convert hydraulic pressure and flow into rotational motion and torque. They are widely used in applications that require high power density, efficiency, and reliability, such as vehicle propulsion, winches, augers, and boom rotate.

There are different types of hydraulic motors, such as gear, vane, piston, and orbital motors. Among them, orbital motors are especially suitable for low-speed, high-torque (LSHT) applications, as they can deliver high output torque throughout their speed range, without the need for additional speed reducers.

Orbital motors are also known as gerotor or geroler motors, depending on the design of their internal gear set. A gerotor motor has a toothed inner rotor that meshes with a toothless outer stator, while a geroler motor has a roller-bearing inner rotor that rolls along a toothed outer stator. Both designs use a spool valve to distribute the hydraulic fluid to the chambers formed by the rotor and stator, creating pressure differences that cause the rotor to rotate.

One of the advantages of orbital motors is their compact and lightweight design, which makes them easy to install and operate in limited spaces. However, not all orbital motors are equally lightweight. Some factors that affect the weight of an orbital motor are:

  • The size and displacement of the motor. Larger motors have higher displacement and torque, but also higher weight.
  • The material and construction of the motor. Some motors use aluminum or plastic components to reduce weight, while others use steel or iron for durability and strength.
  • The features and accessories of the motor. Some motors have additional features such as integrated brakes, valves, sensors, or shaft seals, which can increase the weight and complexity of the motor.

To help you compare and choose the best orbital motor for your application, we have compiled a table of some of the most popular and lightweight hydraulic LSHT motors available in the market, along with their specifications and features.

Model Manufacturer Displacement Max. Torque Max. Pressure Max. Speed Weight Features
FM4 FluiDyne Fluid Power 80 – 500 cc/rev 1,575 – 6,363 lbf-in 2,538 – 1,730 psi 850 – 144 rpm 6.6 – 18.7 lbs Gerotor design, high efficiency, 18-month warranty
TG Parker Hannifin 141 – 959 cc/rev 4,692 – 11,227 lbf-in 1,500 – 4,000 psi 118 – 660 rpm 9.5 – 25.5 lbs Geroler design, high durability, high pressure shaft seal
OMS Danfoss 80 – 475 cc/rev 1,770 – 6,950 lbf-in 2,610 – 1,740 psi 800 – 195 rpm 8.8 – 19.8 lbs Geroler design, smooth operation, integrated valve options
2000 Eaton 80 – 400 cc/rev 1,770 – 5,650 lbf-in 2,900 – 2,000 psi 945 – 300 rpm 9.9 – 17.6 lbs Gerotor design, low noise, high side load capacity

As you can see, there are many options for lightweight hydraulic LSHT motors, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your application requirements, you may prefer a motor that has higher torque, lower speed, higher efficiency, lower noise, or other features. You should also consider the compatibility, availability, and cost of the motor before making your final decision.


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