Whilst it’s not impossible to render an electric or hydraulic motor suitable for complete submersion in water it is costly, complicated and time-consuming. Nevertheless in the marine engineering and process industries there is a real need for such drives and for these applications Huco Dynatork now has the complete answer.
Building on the inherent benefits of its basic air motor design that was specifically designed for operation in harsh and hazardous environments, the company has developed a fully submersible range. These acetyl bodied models with stainless steel shafts and bearings are available in two sizes and specials can be made to order. Ideal for any motion control application underwater such as opening a valve or for propelling a stirring mechanism for example, the motor is also a good choice for washdown environments and flood-risk areas. The motor can withstand aggressive chemicals, high pressure hosing and can operate fully submerged. In common with the standard range, these new submersible motors excel in constant start/stop applications under load and can be applied to give similar characteristics to those of a stepper motor. Reverse operation is achieved by using 5-port control valves giving near instant response even under load.
All the Huco Dynatork submersible air motor needs to operate is compressed air and even that is minimal. It requires up to 80% less than vane motors, providing significant cost savings even at maximum torque. Free-floating pistons transmit maximum torque on start-up that can be adjusted via a pressure regulator.
As a ready supply of compressed air is common in the marine and offshore sites this new motor will of particular interest to these sectors. Air can be supplied via a reservoir and tests have confirmed that a Huco Dynatork motor will run continually for more than 15 minutes from a standard diving cylinder.
Another important air motor development that is already generating considerable interest in the nuclear industry is the new Huco Dynatork non-magnetic model. It combines stainless steel shafts and ceramic bearings enabling the motor to be used in a high magnetic field. It is ideal for applications involving particle acceleration and in systems such as MRI scanners.
