HKS rotary actuators

Hi-Precision Know-how Service 5 1 3 2 4 Dirt, dust, moisture...? So what! Whoever thinks that such high precision is sensi- tive, is in for a pleasant surprise: exactly the op- posite is true for the HKS rotary actuators. With working pressures of up to 350 bar, they require a strong, well-sealed housing. This also provides excellent protection to the interior. Our rotary actuators are therefore completely immune to dust, dirt, and moisture. It is therefore no won- der that one can rely completely on them even under the most difficult conditions, whether deep underground in mines or 2,300 meters under sea level. HKS rotary actuators again proved their reliability in the raising operations on the Rus- sian atomic submarine Kursk. Our rotary actuators have also acquired an ex- cellent reputation where the highest levels of cleanliness and hygiene are necessary. For ex- ample, their reliability is highly valued in the phar- maceutical industry and in food production be- cause of their cleanliness in operation. Precision at the limits of the possible The linear movement of the hydraulic piston is converted into rotary movement by means of multiple helical gears. This is the same principle a drill uses. The helical gears thus convert hydraulic pressure into very high torque levels. For rotary-lift combinations a linear movement is added to the rotary one. The principle is quite simple, however a great deal of precision is necessary to give our rotary actuators their function and well-known reliability. This precision lies at the limits of what is currently possible. We are therefore rather proud that we are able to reduce the tolerance in the angle of rotation in our actuators to less than 10 angular minutes. More important for practical use, however, is the fact that all the modular units in our rotary actuators can be exchanged within minutes, if necessary. HKS rotary actuators have it all Outwardly hydraulic rotary actuators do not seem all that impressive. You just cannot see what is inside them. No one would suspect that our strongest model could easily move 20 VW Golfs from one side to another. Our hydraulic rotary actuators are compact units which can generate very high torque in very little space with hydraulic pressure. And because they are extremely precise and easy to control, in spite of their enormous strength, HKS rotary actuators have conquered nearly every field in which limited rotary movement with high torque is required. 1 Unobtrusive – but strong and reliable: HKS rotary actuators for mobile applications. 3 Raising the Russian atomic submarine Kursk from the Barents Sea. HKS rotary actuators were used. Precision without compromise: The interior of an HKS rotary-lift combination. 2 Leonardo da Vinci wanted to build a flying machine using helical gears. P H O T O : U W E W A G N E R 7 1 2 3 6 Construction machinery is one of the traditional uses for hydraulic rotary actuators. In pile drivers and pulling machines, for example, leaders weighing tons must be brought precisely into position down to the centimeter. The vibrating impacts, which drive sheet piles up to 22 m long into the ground, do not bother the HKS rotary actuator in the least. 1 The excavator shovel is swiveled according to the angle of the slope using the rotary actuator. 2 HKS actuator to swivel a crane cabin. 3 Attachments are posi- tioned, lifted, and lowered using rotary actuators, for example, the soil compac- tor here. Pure power delivered to exactly the right place P H O T O : U W E W A G N E R 9 1 2 3 8 Our hydraulic actuators for implements for com- munity services make workers’ lives easier. The actuators ensure that the equipment is both mobile and can be positioned exactly. This makes it possible for machines to do work that previ- ously had to be done by hand. Thanks to their robustness and compactness, HKS rotary actua- tors can be used in especially long lasting and ergonomic designs. 1 Filling work can be per- formed more effectively and will last longer thanks to the use of rotary actuators 2 The ability to position the washing brushes exactly makes it possible to clean guide poles easily. 3 The brushes of the road sweeping machine can get into every corner with enough force thanks to the hydraulic rotary actuator. Versatile and robust in community service P H O T O : M A U R I T I U S 11 1 2 543 10 Modern ships have a carefully arranged set of ballast tank systems which allow the ships to be trimmed for stability in any wind or weather, re- gardless of the load it is carrying. The electro-hydraulic HKS “power packs” are controlled by a computer on the bridge to open or close the armatures which empty and fill the ballast tanks. 2 The ball valves equipped with the HKS rotary actuators used to raise the Kursk are only 180 mm high. (work photo: von Scheven) 3 Whole groups of rotary ac- tuators are used to operate the armatures used to trim ships. 4 Stern gangway which is be- ing extended with HKS ro- tary actuators. 5 Installation of a swimming platform on a luxury yacht. If required, the platform is extended with HKS rotary actuators. 1 26 steel hawsers were attached to the Russian atomic subma- rine Kursk when it was raised from a depth of 108 meters under the hull of the salvage vessel Giant 4. The ball valves of the nitro- gen system were opened and closed using eight computer con- trolled HKS rotary actuators per hawser so that the load on each hawser could be individually regulated to compensate for the motions of the sea. This made it possible to safely tow the 150 meter submarine into the port of Murmansk in spite of the rough weather in the Barents Sea. (Photo: Mammoet/Smit International) More safety in wind and weather P H O T O : A T L A S C O P C O 13 43 21 12 Whoever wants to cut through solid rock needs tools that can take very heavy loads. With rotary actuators drill pipes for deep hole hammers can be reliably placed in any position and held at a precise angle while the drill bores into the solid rock. The more difficult the local conditions are, the more important the mobility of our rotary actuators is for the heavy machinery. 2 Wherever concrete is in- jected, some of it misses its target. Our hydraulic rotary actuators are unaffected by such problems. 1 Concrete guns offer unique mobility when they use our hydraulic rotary actuators. A joystick is enough to inject the concrete into even the most inaccessible angles. HKS rotary actuators hard at work underground 3 With the HKS rotary actua- tors the drill pipes of the deep hole hammer can be turned to any position. 4 Not only the heavy drill pipes are moved by the HKS rotary actuator, the actua- tor can also easily with- stand the impacts and vibration from the drilling without any difficulties. P H O T O : U W E W A G N E R 15 21 3 4 14 Modern telescopic working platforms can reach nearly 90 meters into the air. Those who work at such heights must be sure that the platform is 100 % safe. HKS rotary actuators not only en- sure this safety, but also ensure that the plat- form can reach any position desired without jerky movement thanks to their smooth actuation and perfect damping. 4 The fire department makes no compromises when it comes to safety. This also applies to their rescue equipment. 2 Naturally also for large work platforms. 1 The perfect combination: One rotary actuator ensures the safety in the horizontal direction while the second ensures mobility while work- ing. Mobile and safe high in the air 3 With the strength of the HKS rotary actuators this concrete conveyor belt has enough range and mobility to move the ready-mixed concrete to any position at the construction site. P H O T O : M A U R I T I U S 17 1 2 16 People correctly expect extra reliability from rotary actuators that operate 2300 meters under sea level. After all, installation underwater is not very easy and long maintenance intervals are the norm. This is no problem for an HKS rotary actuator. Since neither water pressure nor saltwater can impair its function, it might even outlast the offshore platform. 2 HKS rotary actuator in a grabber for seabed explora- tion. 1 An example for reliability: At a depth of 2300 meters this rotary actuator opens and closes the armature for a pipeline. Offshore, 2300 meters under sea level P H O T O : M A U R I T I U S 19 1 2 43 18 HKS rotary actuators are used in the transporta- tion sector for everything from specialized air- field vehicles to the steering of forklifts. Electro- hydraulic actuators have been widely used in the Dutch railway network for years, our rotary ac- tuators also help load shipping containers in ports. They are often used to open and fasten truck platform gates because of their low weight and favorable dimensions. 4 Reliable: Electro-hydraulic shunt device using an HKS rotary actuator for the Dutch railway company. 2 Thanks to their compact di- mensions, HKS rotary actua- tors can easily be integrated into any design. 1 HKS rotary actuators quickly and safely connect the flipper bracket to the corner fittings of the container so that it can be safely loaded at its destination. 3 The tow vehicle takes the nose wheel of the Airbus with the aid of two HKS rotary actuators so that it can move the air- plane into its parking position. Powerful helpers for logistics and traffic P H O T O : A R M I N K O C H 21 1 20 Our hydraulic rotary actuators are excellently suited to machines and equipment for agricul- ture and forestry. They are insensitive to mois- ture and dirt and need virtually no maintenance. Mechanical damage, as frequently occurs with hydraulic cylinders, is not possible for HKS rotary actuators. 1 Thanks to the high torque, even a small rotary actuator is enough to move even very large tree trunks. Also for field, forest, and meadow P H O T O : H K S 23 3 4 5 1 2 22 Economy and ecology go hand in hand with our hydraulic scrap shears and concrete pulverisers: their use greatly reduces working costs while si- multaneously reducing atmospheric pollution which is created through incineration or the dust from demolition. With our know-how in hydrau- lic drive engineering, we can expand the field of use of such equipment and extend its lifespan. 1 It does not matter to the HKS demolition shears whether they are cutting concrete or steel. They are therefore well suited to demolish steel-reinforced concrete buildings. 5 HKS demolition shears can be mounted in any number of ways. This means that even taller buildings are no problem. 2 The shears mounted on an excavator move to the scrap. This makes it easier to move the debris away. Twice as ”eco” for demolition and recycling 3 The HKS scrap shears can easily move and load parts weighing tons with its hy- draulic actuator. 4 This HKS concrete pulveriser is exactly the right tool to remove steel reinforcement from con- crete. P H O T O : U W E W A G N E R 25 1 2 3 24 Our hydraulic rotary actuators normally work with an working pressure of 210 bar. That is why we carefully seal them both inside and outside. Noth- ing gets in, nothing gets out. And since our ac- tuators do not emit any particles, in contrast to, for example, electric motors, they are suitable for use in the food processing and pharmaceuti- cal industries. 3 We supply our rotary actua- tors in a stainless steel housing if required. 1 Hygienic and suitable for use with food: HKS rotary actuator to fill a cutter. 2 Also clean in the pharma- ceutical industry – to open and close the housing of a centrifuge. It could hardly be more hygienic and clean P H O T O : H K S 1 2 3 2726 In the chemical and petrochemical industries our hydraulic part-turn actuators are among the most reliable actuators for armatures. They hardly need any maintenance, work practically free of wear, and can be used even in areas endangered by explosions without problems. They withstand wind and weather and even aggressive atmo- sphere in the corrosion protected version. 3 Autonomous electro- hydraulic unit to power a throttle valve. 1 Thanks to their design hydraulic rotary actuators can also be used in areas endangered by explosions. 2 Compact and reliable: ball valve with hydraulic drive. HKS actuators: safely open and close P H O T O : A D A M O P E L A G 29 21 3 4 5 28 Machine manufacturing is the classic domain of HKS rotary actuators. Wherever work pieces are turned, lifted, swiveled, turned over, fed or re- moved, tools are changed, cages with parts are moved, or devices moved precisely into position, we have the rotary actuator which will enable you to exactly and precisely perform your task. Actuators for 1001 jobs in machine manufacturing 2 The tools on the machining center are changed quickly and precisely with aid of the HKS rotary actuator. 5 Hot cast parts are moved precisely into position from the climatised cabin of the manipulator. 1 The 20 ton coil is moved into the correct position with a rotary- lift actuator so that the gripping tongs of the rolling mill can grab the start of the coil. 3 HKS rotary actuator to feed casting moulds. 4 HKS rotary actuator in a machine for tire manufac- ture. 5 6 31 1 30 7 4 2 3 Responsible interaction characterises the way our em- ployees work together, who come from 10 different nations. Proof of the active, positive internal co-opera- tion and the excellent working atmosphere lies in our low personnel fluctuation. In this way we can keep our know how and further develop it. The HKS Group companies are known for their appren- ticeships with opportunities for the future and are able to select their apprentices from a multitude of candi- dates. In this way our tomorrow’s qualified staff can learn within the company. However, the HKS Group hasn’t just gained a good repu- tation as an employer and trainer, its investments have now become an economic factor in the region. Through its innovative product strategy and the con- tinuous expansion of its range of activities, the HKS Group has been able to enjoy healthy and stable growth. This success is one reason why the company will con- tinue with its steady investment strategy. Technical University we carried out a research project involving the perfecting of performance by hydraulic actuators. That’s why HKS Dreh-Antriebe GmbH is the right partner when you require specialist knowledge for using rotary actuators to turn, lift and move... A further important aspect for the company is maintenance work for customers all over the world. In 2001 HKS’ new Business Division Recycling was formed. On the basis of many years’ experience in producing important components for scrap shears and concrete pulverisers these attachments are now completely constructed and assembled for the building and recycling industries. Furthermore we produce spare parts for this sector and carry out maintenance work. HKS Dreh-Antriebe GmbH & Co. KG in Neukirch, Lausitz, is the youngest member of the HKS Group of companies. It started from scratch in 1996 and the operations made a profit just three years after it had been founded. The Saxony-based company mainly produces larger rotary actuators. Owing to its location HKS Dreh-Antriebe GmbH & Co KG is the ideal contact for customers in Eastern Europe. 5 If you want to deliver preci- sion then you need perfectly maintained equipment. 6 All new developments must prove their quality in long term tests which have been developed in conjunction with Dortmund Technical University. 7 HKS belongs to the compa- nies which from the begin- ning have had themselves certified by NIS-Zert. The HKS Group is committed to the principle of partnership: working with each other and for the benefit of each other, treating customers and suppliers in the same way as we would treat each other within the company and in relation to the people in the region. The Group The three companies which form the HKS Group show how they have used their know-how to evolve from a manufacturer of simple rotary parts to a provider of complete attachments. The group consists of the following companies today: Walter Höhn GmbH, HKS Dreh-Antriebe GmbH and HKS Dreh- Antriebe GmbH & Co KG. Walter Höhn GmbH is the oldest of the three companies. Since it was founded in 1970 Walter Höhn GmbH produced rotary, milling and toothing parts in the best German mechanical engineering traditions. Even though the parts are manufactured in the most modern CNC processing centres, the spirit of the founder’s work remains alive, which meant uncompromising dedication to precision in mechanical production. Walter Höhn GmbH is responsible for the quality of the components in the Group. HKS Dreh-Antriebe GmbH is responsible for engineering work, assembly and sales. The company has been connected to Walter Höhn GmbH since 1985 through its Managing Director. HKS Dreh-Antriebe GmbH’s extensive know-how has ensured that our rotary actuators belong to the leading products in their sector in Europe. In this area as well we conceive solutions for special tasks together with our customers. For example, in co-operation with the Dortmund 1 The Headquarters of the HKS Group in Wächtersbach (after the extension of the office and production building in 1998). 2 In conversation with an HKS employee in the final assem- bly line: the Minister for Busi- ness, Transport and State De- velopment for the State of Hessen Dieter Posch. 3 The management team discussing a project together in the company’s modern training rooms. 4 Despite all the automation - the employees’ experience and sensitivity is absolutely essential in the production of rotary actuators. HKS – the principle of shared responsibility 3332 7 HKS scrap shears at the spanish exhibition SMOPYC , Zaragoza. 6 Successful from the begin- ning: scrap shears and con- crete pulverisers found their way to customers in the US and Canada directly from the 5 Petrochem Expo in Canada: together with its Canadian sales partner HKS presents its part-turn actuators for armatures, power packs as 4 Successful in the French market and highly visible at the trade fair: HKS France at MECANELEM-MECATRONIC, Paris. well as rotary actuators for drilling rigs and tankers. stand at CONEXPO-CON/ AGG, Las Vegas. 3 The Fluidtrans Compomac fair in Milan is the most im- portant industry trade fair in Italy. For years HKS is repre- sented there together with its Italian sales partner HKS Technology srl. The HKS Group attaches a high degree of importance to attending the most important trade fairs and exhibitions around the world in order to do business in international markets. 2 The mechanical engineering industry belongs to the most important customer groups for HKS rotary actuators. HKS comes to meet its cus- tomers at the Bauma Fair in Munich. 1 For years HKS’ stand in the Hanover Trade Fair has been an important place to meet and talk to customers from around the world. The European market has long been the main fo- cus of sales for the HKS Group. Since 1996 the HKS Group has been working exclusively with HKS Technology srl., Erbusco (BS), Italy, and in 1998 the HKS Group together with its French partner founded the sales arm HKS France, Melun, to serve the important French market. In the mean time the HKS Group has sales partners in all West- ern European countries and direct business con- nections to all continents. In addition to the activities in Europe, last years strategic partnerships were forged with represen- tations in the United States and Canada to repre- sent our products in the North American region. HKS - Solutions for our customers around the