Pneumatics & Hydraulics


Parker’s E-Steering for commercial vehicles

February 2017 Pneumatics & Hydraulics

Parker Hannifin is now able to offer complete E-Steering solutions to the commercial vehicle market. The company can work with bus, coach and truck OEMs to develop complete easy-to-install prewired systems featuring its ground-breaking electro-hydraulic pump (EHP) technology at their core.

Parker’s EHP functions differently to traditional systems, which permanently drive a variable displacement pump connected to a power take-off situated in the engine compartment. Instead, the EHP comprises a permanent magnet electric AC motor (PMAC) coupled directly to a hydraulic pump that is controlled by a high performance drive, this enables the power used by the vehicle’s steering to be matched to the quantity of energy needed at any given time. Importantly, the system can be positioned close to the steering system at the front of the vehicle.

Safety and efficiency improved

The benefits for customers seeking intelligent control in commercial transportation applications are widespread. For instance, greater efficiency can be achieved as the pump runs on demand (fixed displacement pump in combination with variable speed). In turn, this helps to generate a saving of 20-30 bar pressure during operation. Additionally, safety is improved thanks to the removal of hydraulic tubing from the engine compartment, thus reducing the risk of fire.

Parker’s E-Steering solutions are also cleaner and help minimise maintenance as potential oil leaks are reduced in line with fewer hydraulic line connections. Furthermore, designers will find that they are able to reduce the size of the internal combustion engine by averaging the required steering power through the electric power stored in the battery. A smaller engine helps improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, which is vital on many city centre bus operating routes where low emission zones are now prevalent.

Each high efficiency low noise E-Steering system is pre-engineered with fully validated pressure, flow and voltage characteristics. Moreover, the drives, low inertia PMAC motors and hydraulic pumps are mechanically matched, so there is no need for extra adaptors. Notably, Parker is able to partner with customers in order to maximise their profitability through reduced development and installation time.

Typical operating voltages range from 24 to 800 VDC to adapt to every battery pack, while flow rates up to 300 l/min, and pressures up to 300 bar can be achieved. Higher pressure ratings can be obtained on request through another pump technology.

Ultimately, Parker’s E-Steering solutions will help commercial vehicle OEMs towards key industry goals that include power system downsizing, improved safety, reduced noise, better fuel economy and lower emissions.

For more information contact Lisa de Beer, Parker Hannifin (Africa), +27 (0)11 961 0700, [email protected], www.parker.com/za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Servo motor series for explosive environments with expanded certification
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Parker Hannifin’s ongoing commitment to safety and performance in hazardous environments is evident in the new certifications and product improvements for its EY and EX servo motor series.

Read more...
Precision matters: Unravelling the intricacies of hydraulic cylinder honing
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
This article dives into the intricacies of hydraulic cylinder honing, shedding light on its significance, process and the technology behind achieving unparalleled precision.

Read more...
The six pillars of hydraulic system health
Hydrasales Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydrasales, a leader in hydraulic and lube oil industry solutions, offers an extensive range of condition monitoring products designed to safeguard your systems. Here are six essential checks for hydraulic system health to keep your systems in optimal shape.

Read more...
Compressed air preparation
Artic Driers International Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The choice of compressed air dryers is driven by the air quality demands of your plant.

Read more...
Compressed air treatment do’s and don’ts
Artic Driers International Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As a long-established importer and manufacturer of air dryers, Artic Dryers often sees the results of poor installation and issues with aftercoolers that create serious problems in air drying systems.

Read more...
Next-gen air compressors for plastics manufacturer
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Integrated Air Solutions has reinforced its partnership with global compressor manufacturer, ABC Compressors by facilitating the installation and commissioning of two next-generation direct-drive ABC machines for a prominent plastic manufacturer in South Africa.

Read more...
Electrohydraulic shredding of galvanic waste
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Galvanised parts are among the last big challenges for recycling. ImpulsTec is implementing shockwave or electrohydraulic shredding technology, for the separation of complex material compounds in industrial processes.

Read more...
A leap forward in electrohydrostatic pump technology
Customized Motion Controls Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Moog has launched the EPU-G, the latest addition to its Electrohydrostatic Pump Unit portfolio.

Read more...
Revealing the value of filtration
Hydrasales Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The life and reliability of hydraulic systems are greatly affected by the presence of particulate contamination in the lubricant. However, in the face of potential contamination there is hope. The cleaner the fluid, the more reliable the system or process, and the longer the lifespan of its components.

Read more...
Bushings for movie prop platforms
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
A provider of engineering services in the hydraulics and pneumatics industry anticipates new orders in 2025 for movie prop platforms that use Vesconite bushings with a low coefficient of friction.

Read more...