The function of hydraulic motors is to convert hydraulic pressure and flow into rotational mechanical energy via an output shaft. Motors are used where a rotational output is required.
There are 3 main types of hydraulic motors: piston, vane and gear.
A piston motor can be radial or axial. In a radial piston motor, the pistons are oriented radially from the shaft.
An axial piston motor is similar to an axial piston pump and is the most common motor used in aerospace. A vane motor can be a good choice for a motor in high-speed applications. Gear motors are generally very compact relative to their displacement and are able to operate at high speed. They are also less expensive than a piston or vane motor.
