Parker Hannifin is launching a Compact Electro-Hydraulic Actuator (EHA) that provides a complete, freestanding actuation system for space-critical, portable and remote applications. Offering a combination of power, speed and durability that is claimed to be unrivalled, Parker's Compact EHA is a fully self-contained, double-acting actuator offering an exceptionally high power density at operating speeds of over 100mm/s. This makes the new Compact EHA suitable for use as an alternative to conventional linear actuation technologies such as electromechanical and pneumatic drives in applications ranging from military and aerospace to marine, construction and general industrial use.
The innovative design of the Compact EHA sees all components integrated into the monobloc housing, making for an exceptionally compact construction. The unit comprises a high-performance, double-acting hydraulic actuator, driven via a reversible gear pump, which is powered by an integrated 12V or 24V DC motor. The pump is enclosed within the hydraulic fluid reservoir, with pressure relief and check valves also incorporated within the system assembly. Trunnion pin mounting holes are set within the base of the housing and at the end of the piston rod for ease of installation; all that is required are mounting pins and motor connections.
Each piston rod is manufactured from stainless steel, with a micro-finished cylinder bore featuring buna-nitrile and polyurethane sealing elements to prevent both leakage and the ingress of contaminants. The monobloc housing is produced from anodised aluminium, providing a relatively lightweight, tough and corrosion-resistant unit that is sealed to IP67. Each Compact EHA unit is supplied fully tested, flushed and filled with fluid ready for operation; being s fully sealed means that it requires no subsequent maintenance.
The design and construction of the Compact EHA actuator enables it to produce exceptionally high thrusts, up to 22.25kN on extension and up to 15.57kN on retraction. In contrast with conventional ball screw or linear motion systems, the Compact EHA is backlash-free and does not require any form of gearing, so is unaffected by wear and loss of positional accuracy.
Parker says its new actuator can be used at operating temperatures of between -29 and +65degC, and generates less than 60dB of noise. The Compact EHA is available with a range of options for the motor, pump, bore and stroke length, making it a good choice for machine builders looking for a simple and efficient method of providing fast, high-power linear motion.