Torqmaster Semi‑Rotary Actuators

SWP Torqmaster Semi-Rotary Actuators comprise of a rack and pinion construction providing constant torque over the total rotation.

SWP’s Torqmaster Semi-Rotary actuators are designed for long life, arduous duties in extreme environments over many cycles.

SWP Torqmaster rotary actuators are used widely in a variety of critical and demanding markets. The pinnacle of this is our 30 year experience in supplying Naval Programmes, where quality, performance and dependability are constantly put to the test.

SWP Torqmaster actuators are also found in many Industrial markets such as: Automotive, Machine tool, material handling, material production. Our products are often specified in fatigue specimen test rigs, ROVs (robotic autonomous vehicles), and Deep-Sea pipe clamping systems to name but a few examples. Read more about the Sectors we serve >

Operating Principle

SWP Torqmaster rotary actuators operate a rack and pinion design, which in most cases incorporates twin rack pistons which operate on a centrally located pinion/output shaft. Pressure applied to the pinion moves the rack against the pinion creating rotary movement.

In the case of twin rack models, pressure and flow is applied to alternate ends of the Torqmaster via internal transfer tubes. Rotation is anywhere between
0 and 360 degrees.

Torqmaster Advantages

Torqmaster Actuators Constant Torque diagram

Constant Torque

Regardless of shaft angular position, predictable, positive, constant, mechanically balanced torque is produced in either direction. There is an absolute linear relationship to pressure and output torque making the sizing and application simple to specify.

Torqmaster Actuators Balanced Bearings

Balanced Bearings

Twin rack construction ensures the pinion shaft bearing is balanced by each rack under pressure.

Torqmaster Actuators Cushioning

Cushioning

Cushioning is available as an optional option to slow down operation at the end of stroke. Normally effective over the last 10 to 15 degrees of rotation in each direction.

Torqmaster Actuators End Stops

End Stops

End stops are available as an option to trim the rotation. Each adjuster can reduce the total rotation by ten degrees. This assists in trimming the applications end position.

Space Envelope

Compact design when compared to other rotary actuators on the market.

Variable Torque

Torque can be varied by adjusting the hydraulic pressure, up to a max of 210Bar working pressure.

Variable Speed

Speed can be varied by adjusting the hydraulic flow rate.

Efficiency

Extremely volumetric efficient. Mechanical losses within the actuator have already been accounted for in the published figures.

SWP Torqmaster
Special Variants

Spring return system

Ensuring the actuator always returns to its open or closed position.

Mechanical override

Allowing the actuator to operate in the event of hydraulic failure.

Position indication

Indicating movement in degrees, or end stop position.

 

Fail safe spring pack

Safety feature, ensuring pinion returns to its desired position.

Non-standard materials

Designed to suit various environmental conditions.

Special paint options

Subsea / top side / industrial / water based / enamel or just undercoat.

Single and double output shafts with keyways are standard.

When Torqmaster actuators are provided with a keyway, this will be at the twelve o’clock position at the mid-rotation point.

Hollow Pinion Shafts can be offered where mating space is at a premium. This removes the need for a drive coupling but should not be used at pressures above 100 BAR (1500psi).

Mounting Supports the actuator to its intended position, which will vary dependent on the application. Various configurations can be offered which are typically X4 blind tapped holes located into the mounting face of the actuator.

The standard port position will always be supplied unless the alternative is specified by quoting.

Various seals options are available to suit your specific requirements, including cycle, high temperature and subsea variants.

Impressive in-house paint facilities, including Alkaline hot wash for degreasing, shot blast preparation for superior adhesion and a modern paint booth for a quality finish.

Size & Economy

SWP Torqmaster is more compact than a hydraulic cylinder with crank arm, more reliable than an electric motor and gearbox. Rated for continuous industrial duty, it is ideal for continuous automation and inertial loads. Please check with our applications department for suitability of your selection.

Material Options

SWP Torqmaster Actuators can be made from various materials to suit customer specific environmental conditions. Standard variant is typically carbon steel, however we able to supply actuators in the following alternative materials:

NAB
Copper Nickel
Super Duplex
Monel
Aluminium

Racks, pinions and seals are specified to suit the application and technical requirements.

Model Variants

Torqmaster Range Rack Options Max. Pressure Max. Torque NM @ 100Bar Rotation Cushions Stroke Adj
TM Mini 1 Single / Double 100 Bar 53 / 106 180° No Optional
TM Mini 2 Single / Double 100 Bar 197 / 394 180° No Optional
TM Mini 3 Single 100 Bar 573 180° Optional Optional
TM1 Single 210 Bar 208 180° Optional Optional
TM2 Double 210 Bar 418 180° Optional Optional
TM3 Double 210 Bar 465 180° Optional Optional
TM6 Double 210 Bar 875 360° Optional Optional
TM12 Double 210 Bar 1750 360° Optional Optional
TM20 Double 210 Bar 3015 360° Optional Optional
TM30 Double 210 Bar 4460 360° Optional Optional
TM50 Single 210 Bar 7486 360° Optional Optional
TM100 Double 210 Bar 14972 360° Optional Optional
TM140 Double 210 Bar 20000 360° Optional Optional
TM300 Double 210 Bar 42000 360° Optional Optional

Testing

Standard testing subjects all of our actuators to a rigorous range of functional checks including: rotation, pressure & cushioning. We offer a test report and CofC if required.

Additionally, SWP can offer higher levels of testing to include: rotation speed, oil cleanliness levels, water pressure (zero leaks from outside to in), as well as long duration PLC tests, and 100% inspection of all critical to quality parts.

All of this competence has been built around decades of supplying the world’s most demanding customers and markets.

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Sectors

We have a history of over thirty years in the supply of actuators for naval applications, oil tankers, offshore safety systems, deep sea pipe clamping systems and much more.

We serve the following markets: Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy, Defence, General Commercial, Material Processing, Automotive & Fatigue Testing.

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Questions about our products, custom builds or how we could help you? We’d be delighted to hear from you.