Hydraulic actuators are just one of the many components of a hydraulic system that uses fluid to provide pressure measured in pounds per square inch, or psi, for mechanical devices. A hydraulic actuator is essentially the power behind any type of hydraulic-powered equipment. These cylinders, or fluid motors, produce linear, rotary or oscillatory mechanical motions to lift, lower, open, close, etc.

From direct gas actuators that use high-pressure gas as their power supply instead of fluid to a hydraulic brake actuator that displaces pressure to perform another function in a hydraulic system, the types of hydraulic actuators available run the gamut in terms of function and industry best served. When exploring your options for hydraulic actuators:

1. Purchase a hydraulic linear actuator for motion control in your hydraulic system.

2. Buy a hydraulic rotary actuator to move multiple components.

3. Find reliable service companies for hydraulic actuator repair.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore your options for hydraulic linear actuators

Over the years, the performance, sophistication and operating pressures of hydraulic actuators has steadily improved, causing older models to become obsolete or, at the very least, frustrating to use. Keep your equipment - and your business - popping on all cylinders by purchasing new hydraulic linear actuators from leading distributors and/or a reputable hydraulic actuator manufacturer.

I recommend: Duff-Norton is a manufacturer of hydraulic linear actuators with load capacities from 100 pounds to 100 tons. Place an order or request a quote to find the linear actuator you're looking for. Fill out the form at Danahar Motion to find out if the electric hydraulic actuator line of products they carry will work for your company. MICO is a major supplier of hydraulic brake actuators. Click on the state where your company is located to find an MICO distributor.

Purchase hydraulic rotary actuators from leading suppliers

Hydraulic rotary actuators use a pressurized liquid to rotate mechanic components. Specifications to take a closer look at before purchasing a new hydraulic rotary actuator include load capacity, operating pressure range and rotation angle.

I recommend: Omega Engineering has an extensive product list of hydraulic rotary actuators. Check out IC Fluid Power Inc. for another option.

Find a trusted service company to handle repairs to hydraulic actuators

Just like any equipment for your business, hydraulic actuators are bound to break down at some point. Find a hydraulic actuator repair service company you like and trust, and schedule routine maintenance to keep your equipment humming.

I recommend: Wooster Hydrostatics can provide service or remanufacturing to your hydraulic actuator or other hydraulic system component. Kitagawa-NorthTech is another great source for hydraulic actuator parts and service.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Be sure to stay on top of hydraulic actuator maintenance - it just might save your company a significant amount of time, money and headaches down the line.