Since 1967, Rotomation has maintained its service and product reputation in the manufacture of practical, durable, rotary actuators that produce a variety of shaft motions.
Torque: 9 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/4" or 3/8"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 7-14 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/4"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 35 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/8"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 6 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/16" or 1/4"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 12 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/4" or 3/8"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 39 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/2"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 119 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/4"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 277 in-lb*
Shaft: 1" or 1 1/8"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 24 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/4" or 3/8"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 78 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/2"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 238 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/4"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 545 in-lb*
Shaft: 1" or 1 1/8"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 6 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/4" or 3/8"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 12 in-lb
Shaft: 3/8"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 39 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/2"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 119 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/4"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 277 in-lb*
Shaft 1 or 1 1/8"
Diameter
*80 psi
Torque: 12-277 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/8"-1 1/8"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 9 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/8*
Diameter
*60psi
Torque: 29 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/2"
Diameter
*60psi
Torque: 89 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/4"
Diameter
*60psi
Torque: 208 in-lb*
Shaft: 1"
Diameter
*60psi
Torque: 12 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/8"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 39 in-lb*
Shaft: 1/2"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 119 in-lb*
Shaft: 3/4"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 277 in-lb*
Shaft: 1"
Diameter
*80psi
Torque: 39 in-lb*
Shaft: 1"
Diameter
*80psi
With internal stops for an intermediate position, our A12 three-position actuator has overall dimensions that are similar to those of its two-position counterpart, the A12 rotary actuator. Output torque is that of a single rack unit but it can rotate to any of its 3 positions in any sequence by simply activating the proper directional control valve.
Specifications:
See the A12 3-Position Rotary Actuator Part Numberpage for detailed configuration and option information.
But if you're looking for precise unidirectional sequential steps, consider our X1 Indexing Actuator.
For increased torque output, consider the A22 3-Position Actuator.
The A12 rotary actuator can be configured into over two billion standard configurations that can be assembled to order and shipped within a few days. The A12 shares many of the same construction features and options with its bigger counterparts. The A12 has been tested to 20 million maintenance-free duty cycles. Ball bearings and a one piece, heat treated alloy steel pinion shaft complete the rugged, flexible dual rack construction of this proven workhorse.
Specifications:
See the A12 Rotary Actuator Part Numberpage for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for the 3-Position version, see A12 3-Position Rotary Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X1 Indexing Actuator.
For increased torque output, consider the A2 Rotary Actuator.
The A2 incorporates all the design features that have made our 1 to 2-inch bore actuator line the standard in the industry for reliability and configurability. Floating pistons and a precision ground rack riding in replaceable sintered bronze bearings provide enhanced durability. The one piece, heat treated alloy steel pinion shaft is supported by large sealed ball bearings and it can be customized to suit your load.
Specifications:
See the A2 Rotary Actuator Part Number page for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for a three-position version, see A22 3-Position Rotary Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X2 Indexing Actuator.
For double the output torque and zero backlash, consider our Dual Rack A22 Rotary Actuator.
With internal stops for an intermediate position, our A22 three-position actuator has overall dimensions that are similar to those of its two-position counterpart, the A22 Rotary Actuator. Output torque is that of a single rack unit but it can rotate to any of its 3 positions in any sequence by simply activating the proper directional control valve.
Specifications:
See the A22 3-Position Rotary Actuator Part Numberpage for detailed configuration and option information.
But if you're looking for precise unidirectional sequential steps, consider our X2 Indexing Actuator.
For increased torque output, consider the A32 3-Position Actuator.
The A22 rotary actuator can be configured into over two billion standard configurations that can be assembled to order and shipped within a few days. It shares many of the same construction features and options with its bigger counterparts. Its dual rack construction allows for expanded options combination flexibility. Ball bearings and a one-piece, heat-treated alloy steel pinion shaft make this rugged, flexible actuator one of the favorites.
Specifications:
See the A22 Rotary Actuator Part Number page for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for the 3-Position version, see A22 3-Position Rotary Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X2 Indexing Actuator.
For increased torque output, consider the A3 Rotary Actuator.
The A3 incorporates all the design features that have made our 1 to 2-inch bore actuator line a standard in the industry for reliability and configurability. Floating pistons and a precision ground rack riding in replaceable sintered bronze bearings provide enhanced durability. The one piece, heat treated alloy steel pinion shaft is supported by large sealed ball bearings and it can be customized to suit your load.
Specifications:
See the A3 Rotary Actuator Part Number page for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for the three-position version, see A32 3-Position Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X3 Indexing Actuator.
For double the output torque and zero backlash, consider our Dual Rack A32 Rotary Actuator.
With internal stops for an intermediate position, our A32 three-position actuator has overall dimensions that are similar to those of its two-position counterpart, the A32 rotary actuator. Output torque is that of a single rack unit but it can rotate to any of its 3 positions in any direction, in any sequence by simply activating the proper directional control valve.
Specifications:
See the A32 3-Position Rotary Actuator Part Number page for detailed configuration and option information.
But if you're looking for precise unidirectional sequential steps, consider our X3 Indexing Actuator.
For increased torque output, consider the A42 3-Position Actuator.
The A32 can be configured into over two billion standard configurations that can be assembled to order and shipped within a few days. It shares many of the same construction features and options with its bigger counterpart, the A42. Its dual rack construction allows for expanded flexibility of options combination. Ball bearings and a one-piece, heat-treated alloy steel pinion shaft make this rugged, versatile actuator an excellent choice for the most demanding applications.
Specifications:
See the A32 Rotary Actuator Part Number page for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for a 3-Position version, see A32 3-Position Rotary Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X3 Indexing Actuator.
For increased torque output, consider the A4 Rotary Actuator.
The A4 incorporates all the design features that have made our 1 to 2-inch bore actuator line the standard in the industry for reliability and configurability. Floating pistons and a precision ground rack riding in replaceable sintered bronze bearings provide enhanced durability. The one piece, heat treated alloy steel pinion shaft is supported by large sealed ball bearings and it can be customized to suit your load.
Specifications:
See the A4 Rotary Actuator Part Numberpage for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for the three-position version, see A42 3-Position Rotary Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X4 Indexing Actuator.
For double the output torque and zero backlash, consider our Dual Rack A42 Rotary Actuator.
With over 60 times more torque capacity than our A032 Rotary Actuator, the A42 is our largest rotary actuator. Its tie rod construction provides for a virtually unlimited number of possible combinations of standard, readily available options that could be installed either on the top or bottom cylinders as needed. With oversized ball bearings and a one-piece, heat-treated alloy steel pinion shaft, this extremely rugged, versatile actuator is an excellent choice for demanding medium to large applications.
Specifications:
See the A42 Rotary Actuator Part Number page for detailed configuration and option information.
Looking for the 3-Position version, see A42 3-Position Rotary Actuator.
If you need precise unidirectional sequential steps, jump to X4 Indexing Actuator.
The A752 is designed to produce substantial amounts of torque in a small package. Its dual rack construction also eliminates gear lash at the ends of the stroke for precise positioning of parts. Its standard ball bearings, roller burnished cylinder bores and one-piece heat treated alloy steel pinion shaft contribute to its unparalleled resilience and long life.
See the A752 Compact Rotary Actuator Part Numberpage for detailed configuration and option information.
If you need larger rotation angles and space isn't a limitation, you may want to consider the A2 Rotary Actuator.
Pneumatic rotary actuators play a pivotal role in the world of automation, bringing a blend of high torque and robust construction packaged in a cost-effective, compact component. External controls are very simple, consisting primarily of a directional control valve, butgetting good performance from these actuatorsrequires careful attention to some details.
In numerous applications, the static torque of the actuator isn't thelimiting factor; the challenge lies in achieving a smooth, controlled motion with a gentle stop to prevent both noise and potential damage to the actuator and surrounding components. This underscores the importance of sizing the actuator properlywith the load's inertia and fine-tuning the operating parameters accordingly.
Essentially, the actuator should be sufficiently sized (displacement) to effectively manage the load's inertia. Since air is compressible, an insufficient displacement in the actuator is like having overly soft springs in a car. The consequence? Sluggish performance and perilous collisions at the end of the rotation.
Meter-out flow controls play a crucial role in pneumatic actuator applications, enhancing both efficiency and safety. These controls create the buildup of back pressure in the exhausting cylinder, proportional to the square of the load velocity.With an adequately sized actuator, this means that it will accelerate the load quickly and then reach a steady speed. Without the flow control, the load will accelerate continuously, causing a high-speed crash at the end. A properly sized actuator with flow control can move the load in a shorter time with lower terminal velocity.
Most pneumatic rotary actuators can be configured with pneumatic cushions to decelerate the load in the final thirty or so degrees of rotation. This minimizes the cycle time for a given amount of shock at the end of stroke. A built-in needle valve acts as a second stage of flow controls, allowing precise adjustment of airflow restriction.
When adjusting, ensure the actuator is in motion, carrying the standard load at the target speed with the standard operating air pressure. If the needle doesn't restrict the airflow sufficiently, the cushion won't have much impact. On the flip side, if it's too restrictive, the cushion pressure builds too quickly, risking a load bounce-back. But hit that sweet spot in adjustment, and the load will decelerate smoothly without unnecessarily extending the cycle time.
For optimal cushion effectiveness, always pair these cushions with meter-out flow controls. Start by adjusting the flow controls first, though be prepared for some back-and-forth fine-tuning. This tag team ensures a seamless, controlled performance.
Bumpers, those resilient pieces of elastomer, typically affixed to the actuator's pistons, play a nifty role in softening the blow – quite literally. As the stroke concludes, these bumpers undergo a gentle compression, siphoning off a chunk of the load's kinetic energy. On their own, bumpers have a modest capacity, but they're a step up from having nothing at all. Excelling at absorbing energy during low-speed maneuvers, they make a perfect match for cushions, which are more effective when dealing with higher speeds.
Some actuator manufacturers offer a solution tailored for high-energy applications: built-in hydraulic shocks. These shocks often outperform pneumatic cushions, thanks to their internal progressive metering. This feature dynamically adjusts fluid restriction throughout the stroke, resulting in a more consistent deceleration force.
However, this approach brings forth several challenges. The shock must be designed to withstand the air pressure within the actuator and efficiently absorb a substantial amount of energy during low-speed, short strokes. Additionally, hydraulic shocks might exhibit a shorter cycle life than the actuator, potentially leading to failure through leakage into the actuator. This leakage can go unnoticed and contaminate both the actuator and the air system, all while leaving the actuator vulnerable to a crash.
To circumvent these issues, a strategic solution involves externally mounting the shocks. Placing them in direct contact with the load at a distance from the center of rotation increases both speed and stroke, creating more favorable conditions for most shocks. This external setup minimizes exposure to the compressed air environment, mitigating potential problems.
A rack and pinion rotary actuator must have some clearance between the mating teeth of the rack and pinion.This clearance, often referred to as lash, introduces a degree of free play in the shaft. When an external object, like an arm connected to the shaft, is in play, this free movement restricts the precision of its positioning – a factor of significance in certain applications.
The amount of lash can be minimized by the actuator design. Those featuring rackslocated precisely with respect to the pinion can be made with smaller clearances.While the absolute amount of lash might seem minor, its impact is magnified by the radius of the object undergoing rotation.
When applied appropriately, pneumatic rotary actuators can offer exceptional functionality in automation.
Unlike our other actuators, the AL75 is not a rack and pinion actuator; it features a patented drive mechanism that is both unique and durable. It can operate at very high speeds with light loads and its characteristic slow start/stop motion reduces noise and shock. It can easily be made in various alternative materials and with its ingress protection capabilities, it is ideal for washdown environments.
See the AL75 Compact Rotary Actuator Part Numberpage for detailed configuration and option information.
If you need higher torque, consider our A752 Rotary Actuator or for larger rotation angles, consider our A01 Rotary Actuator.
Rotary Actuators:Versatile and robust, ideal for a variety of rotational applications
Multi-Position Actuators:Engineered for precise positioning with multiple stop points
Indexing Actuators:Perfect for cyclic tasks, delivering repeatable and reliable performance
Stepping Actuators:Designed forincremental movement without hard stops.
Pick & Place Actuators:Optimal for automated material handling, offering swift and accurate placement
Nitpicker Actuators: Combines linear motion with indexing rotary motion.
Shaft Mounting Adapters: Makes it easy to securely mount tooling to the actuator shaft
Swing Clamps:Independent control of rotary and linear motion for unparalleled tool access
At Rotomation, we are committed to your success. We pride ourselves on offering top-tier customer service, specialized engineering expertise, and dedicated technical support. Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us:
Immediate Assistance:Contact us during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET) for prompt support. For inquiries outside these hours, expect a swift callback the next business day.
Actuator Selection and Sizing: Unsure about which actuator fits your application or the right size for your needs? We'll guide you to the perfect match.
Actuator Cross-Referencing:Save time and resources by letting us help you find a compatible Rotomation actuator to replace units from other manufacturers.
Pricing: Gain access to up-to-date pricing information for both standard and special actuator configurations.
Integration and Installation Guidance:Receive crucial information for integrating and operating our products seamlessly with your systems.
Distributor Relations: Our distributors are carefully chosen for their capabilities and commitment to quality. Contact us with any queries.
Troubleshooting Support:Encounter an issue? We provide thorough guidance to identify the problem, suggest effective solutions, and prevent future occurrences.
Lead Time Estimates:Receive accurate shipping dates and lead times upon order confirmation, with most components readily available for quick assembly and dispatch.
Custom Actuator Design: For specialized requirements, we can modify existing designs or create actuators tailored to your specifications.
Rigorous Testing: Every actuator undergoes comprehensive testing to meet stringent quality standards. Additional tests are available upon request.
CAD Files and Supporting Documents: Most of our products can be configured online, with CAD files or PDF drawings delivered instantly. For special configurations not available online, we can quickly create and deliver files upon request.
At Rotomation, we don’t just sell actuators; we build relationships with a commitment to your business’s success and efficiency. Reach out today to experience the Rotomation difference and elevate your operational capabilities.
If you have any questions for our engineers regarding our actuators, call us at 386-676-6377 or CONTACT US to discuss your specific requirements.
Delivering engineered solutions since 1967 Rotomation is dedicated to providing reliable, extremely configurable, and fully rebuildable pneumatic actuators for automation. Custom and special actuators are our specialty.
There are many applications in automation calling for repetitive rotary indexing. Some examples:
There are at least three types of indexing drives that the engineer can choose between for these applications:
Cam drives have been used for many years and are capable of good accuracy and dynamic control, high speed, and heavy loads. They are typically driven by a gearmotor, with one revolution of the input for each incremental motion of the output. They are best suited for continuous indexing which does not require the motor to be started and stopped for each cycle.
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A servo based indexing drive for such an application will include a servomotor with or without a gearbox, an encoder for position feedback, a motion controller, and an amplifier. Some of these components may be combined into integrated packages. There is normally a system controller overseeing the motion control, including human interface.
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Pneumatic indexing drives, such as our indexing actuators, are simple, mechanical components capable of repetitive rotary indexing with no accumulating error. They are based on rack-and-pinion rotary actuators with the addition of one-way roller clutches and a ratchet and pawl system for stopping and registration. The motion is initiated by a directional control valve, so they are well suited to flexible automation where the index must occur on demand. They are robust and durable, but cannot match the controlled motion characteristics of the servo or cam drives.
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The relative amount of energy these drives consume will depend on the duty cycle of the application. Cam and servo drives are both quite efficient but differ in that the servo uses full power to hold the load in place whereas the cam drive uses power only when driving the load. A pneumatic indexer uses compressed air, which is less efficient than an electric motor drive, but also uses no power when in the locked condition. So, if the duty cycle includes a high percentage of dwell time, the advantage shifts toward the cam and pneumatic systems.
If you have any questions for our engineers regarding our indexing actuators, call us at 386-676-6377 or CONTACT US to discuss your specific requirements.
At Rotomation, we focus on adding value for our customers and thrive when they succeed. Our operations are customer-centric, ensuring we are always accessible to both distributors and end users.
Maximum Reliability: Rotomation actuators are built for high cycle rates and long-life expectancy, backed by our basic 2-year limited warranty. Typically, our actuators run for tens of millions of cycles. Key features include:
Pinion Shafts:Made from quenched and tempered 4150 steel, ensuring extreme impact resistance, accuracy, and long life.
Floating Pistons and Racks:Designed for maximum reliability and fault tolerance.
Replaceable Sintered Bronze Rack Bearings:Offer long life and easy repairability.
Oversized Ball Bearings:Capable of handling heavy loads, allowing for substantial hollow shafts and special applications.
Robust and Efficient Design:Our fully machined body, oversized bearings, and rugged shafts allow the actuator to serve as the bearing for your load. This design reduces the number of parts, simplifies design efforts, and saves space. We keep blank pinion shafts with full bearing bore diameter and extra length in stock, enabling us to quickly create custom shafts tailored to your design needs.
Long-Lasting and Rebuildable:Rotomation actuators are built to endure millions of operations under heavy loads and are fully rebuildable. We offer a fast rebuild service or provide parts for self-repair.
Longevity and Support: Our customers often share stories of Rotomation actuators that have been in service for 10, 20, or even 30 years. They are pleased to learn that we support nearly all our old products and that our current models are compatible with older versions, despite continuous improvements for longer life. Each unit is serialized, and we maintain detailed records indefinitely.
For more information about our rotary actuator products and services, please CONTACT US to discuss your specific requirements.
Choose your motion then configure the unit to suit your needs exactly.
Choose your motion and then configure the unit to suit your needs.
Rotary
Bidirectional rotation between two positions, like a windshield wiper. Our mini, or compact, rotary actuators are designed for applications where space is of the essence and torque is as important.
Multi-position
Multi-position actuators provide back and forth rotation between three, four, or five positions in any sequence. The 3 position is the most common, but 4 or 5 position units give additional flexibility
Indexing
Indexing actuators provide unidirectional rotation in fixed precise steps to hard stops. They prevent backward rotation and feature no accumulating error. Single or dual rack indexers available.
Stepping
Stepping actuators provide unidirectional rotation in steps, like indexing actuators, but without the hard stops. These actuators also prevent backward rotation but incur an accumulating error.
Pick & place
Pick & place actuators combine a rotary section with a linear cylinder to provide independently-controlled linear and rotary motion. As multi-motion actuators, they can also provide stepping motion.
Rotomation welcomes requests for special actuators because we understand how they can save our customers money by reducing cost of extra parts or engineering time and/or improving their product or process.
If your application requires a simple modification to one or more parts on one of our standard units.
If your application requires one of our standard actuator to be made from a different material, including stainless steel, due to specific environmental requirements.
If your application would be optimized by having an actuator designed from the ground up to suit your exact needs.
For over 50 years, Rotomation has been the go-to choice for businesses in need of top-notch actuators and drives to meet their manufacturing requirements. Our success is a direct reflection of our customers' triumphs – by offering them high-quality, rugged products tailored to their exact specifications, we ensure unrivaled reliability. But that's not all; our unwavering commitment to exceptional service and support means we all reap the benefits. And here's just a glimpse into our satisfied clientele
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