Gýrol® Fluid Drives
Howden Gýrol® fluid drives are used to control speed, and to absorb shock and torsional vibration. These extremely robust variable speed hydraulic drives provide a reliable, low maintenance, cost-effective alternative to high-horsepower, medium-voltage variable frequency drives.
Our Gýrol® fluid drives are simple and rugged and have a reputation for dependable service. They help reduce energy costs by reducing load during start up and providing more accurate control at the desired operating speed.
Using hydrokinetic (hydrodynamic) principles to transmit power from a prime mover to a load simply, reliably and efficiently, Gýrol® fluid drives combine the characteristics of a pump and a turbine. They transmit power smoothly and without shock, using a vortex of hydraulic oil. Oil particles are accelerated in the impeller and power is transmitted as the oil strikes the blades of the runner. There is no mechanical connection between input and output shafts. All moving parts are either submerged in oil or pressure-lubricated. The same oil transmits power, removes heat and lubricates.
Benefits of Gýrol® fluid drives include
- infinitely variable speed control.
- enables the use of simple, standard low-cost induction drive motors.
- elimination of power waste.
- natural torque limits.
- reduction of maintenance, wear and noise.
- load isolated from driver.
- controlled acceleration and deceleration.
- power transmission at maximum efficiency.
- absorption of shock and torsional vibration.
- simple, rugged design with low maintenance
- suitable for variable torque or constant torque duties.
Our first unit was installed in a power plant in 1933. Currently there are more than 12,000 units installed in practically every major industry driving pumps, fans, ball mills, conveyors, mixers and other process equipment.