Orbital Motors

Orbital Motors – High Torque Solutions Built for Demanding Applications

Orbital motors are hydraulic motors designed for low speed, high torque operation. Whether you’re building a new system or replacing a worn unit, choosing the right orbital motor makes a big difference to performance, efficiency, and lifespan.

What Is an Orbital Motor?

An orbital motor is a hydraulic motor that uses an internal gear design, typically a gerotor or geroler, to generate rotary motion. These motors deliver high torque at low speeds, making them ideal for mobile and industrial equipment where size, reliability, and power density matter.

The orbital design means the shaft rotates around a centre point as the internal gear set moves fluid. It’s a proven concept that’s been part of the hydraulics industry for over 70 years.

How Do Hydraulic Orbital Motors Work?

Inside the motor, fluid enters under pressure, rotating the internal gears. The output shaft is connected directly to this gear mechanism, providing smooth, controlled motion. They’re commonly used in systems where consistent torque is more important than speed, such as augers, conveyors, or wheel drives.

Depending on the valve design, motors can come with either:

• Spool valve: standard and cost-effective
• Disc valve: for higher efficiency and better performance under load

Both types are available across the Danfoss orbital motor range.

Applications and Performance

The following is just a section of the industries in which orbital motors are used:

• Agriculture – spreaders, augers, and harvesters
• Construction – concrete mixers, trenchers, drive functions
• Forestry – tree shears, saws, log splitters
• Mining – conveyor belts, drilling rigs
• Transport & material handling – wheel drives, belt systems

Designed for medium to heavy-duty applications, they’re suitable for harsh environments and can deliver exceptional performance with low maintenance.

Danfoss Orbital Motors – Built for Long Life

Danfoss offers one of the broadest portfolios in the market, with proven char-lynn® series designs and the latest in compact, high-efficiency models.

You’ll find:

• Wide range of orbital motors with displacements from small to large
• Models with integrated brake options
• Units optimised for extreme durability and high efficiency
• Configurable options for shaft type, valve configuration, and mounting

From premium Xcel motors to specialist low-speed, high torque solutions, Danfoss orbital motors are trusted across the globe.

Why Hydrastore?

With decades of experience, we’ve earned a reputation as a trusted Tier 1 partner of Danfoss, providing their industry-leading orbital motors as part of our product catalogue. We also manufacture bespoke hydraulic power packs, many of which incorporate orbital motor technology. Whether you need a standalone motor or a fully custom system, we offer reliable, high-performance solutions tailored to your needs.

• Large stock of orbital motors for fast delivery
• UK-based support for specification, design, and spares
• Expert advice on application fit and function

With Hydrastore, you’re not just buying a component, you’re getting the backing of a team that understands hydraulic system design inside out.

Looking for Orbital Motor Replacements or Upgrades?

From sourcing the right product to selecting a more efficient or reliable model, we can help. If your machine’s running slow, hot, or just not right, speak to our engineers.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a gear motor and an orbital motor?
Gear motors rotate at higher speeds and lower torque. Orbital motors are better for high torque, low speed jobs with a more compact build and smoother operation.

Do orbital motors come with brakes?
Yes – many models, especially in the Danfoss char-lynn® range, are available with integrated brake options.

Which industries use hydraulic orbital motors?
Common across agriculture, construction, forestry, and mining – anywhere reliable rotary motion is needed under variable loads.

How do I choose the right displacement?
Motor displacement affects speed and torque. Our team can help size the motor based on your system pressure, load, and application type.

The right orbital motor can completely change how your system performs. We stock only proven, efficient, and high-torque solutions that are built to last.