Steering control units (SCUs)—also called orbitrols, orbital valves, hydraulic steering valves, or hydraulic steering units—play a central role in regulating the steering mechanism of many types of off-road motorised vehicles. A hydraulic steering system gives the user a high degree of directional control over the vehicle—an important capability, and even a potentially life-saving one, on rugged or uneven surfaces where the threat of a serious accident is always present.
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Steering control units (SCUs)—also called orbitrols, orbital valves, hydraulic steering valves, or hydraulic steering units—play a central role in regulating the steering mechanism of many types of off-road motorised vehicles. A hydraulic steering system gives the user a high degree of directional control over the vehicle—an important capability, and even a potentially life-saving one, on rugged or uneven surfaces where the threat of a serious accident is always present.
One of the benefits of steering control units, compared to standard mechanical assemblies, is their resistance to any sudden jerking in the steering column as the vehicle moves over rough terrain. The hydraulic fluid in the system prevents the steering wheel from pulling from the driver’s grip.
SCUs are part of a larger power steering unit, which usually includes:
- Hydraulic Reservoir (Tank) - This is a separate component in the system, which supplies the SCU with hydraulic fluid necessary for steering operations.
- Hydraulic Pump - This power steering pump moves the fluid from the reservoir through the system and into the SCU to create the pressure needed for steering.
- Hydraulic Cylinders - These actuators receive fluid flow controlled by the SCU and generate the force required to turn the steering wheel.
SCUs are mainly for hydraulic-based heavy machinery that require steering precision, which is made possible by specialised devices that carefully control the flow of oil that produces hydraulic power. SCUs are not typically used in standard passenger cars, aircraft, or most boats, as these vehicles use different steering and control mechanisms. Vehicles that use SCUs include:
- Tractors - Used in agriculture for tasks requiring precise control in various terrains.
- Forklifts - Essential for maneuverability in warehouse and industrial environments.
- Backhoes - Common in construction for digging, loading, and heavy-duty tasks.
- Loaders - Used on farms, construction sites, and mines to move heavy materials.
- Skid Steer Loaders - Known for their tight turning radius, frequently used in landscaping and construction.
- Excavators - Important for digging and demolition in construction and mining.
- Combine Harvesters - Used in agriculture for harvesting crops, needing smooth, power-assisted steering for accuracy.
- Road Graders - Used in road construction for leveling surfaces.
- Dump Trucks - Often in mining and construction, they require dependable steering for heavy loads.
- Telehandlers - Used for lifting and transporting materials at heights in agriculture and construction.
SCUs from White House Products
White House Products’ wide-ranging catalogue of hydraulic parts includes a generous selection of standard and non-standard steering units and related accessories from today’s top manufacturers. Brand names represented in our inventory include Danfoss, Char-Lynn, M & S, Ognibene, and more. We have a variety of products for your consideration, such as hydraulic pump shafts, steering columns, brake valves, and control valves. These devices and accessories can be used to replace old, worn steering parts in a broad spectrum of vehicles, from dump trucks to tractors.
To explore our extensive inventory of hydraulic steering units and related accessories, please use the search filter on the left-hand side of the screen to locate products that precisely match your specifications.
As always, the team of hydraulic professionals at White House Products is eager to help our customers find the items they need for their particular applications. Feel free to call us at +44 (0) 1475 742500 with any questions you have about these or any of the other products you see in our online catalog.
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