Rotary torque

Pneumatic Rotary Actuator Torque Calculator

Estimate required pneumatic rotary actuator torque from load mass, lever radius, angular acceleration, gravity orientation, friction, safety, and efficiency.

Rotary torque

Run the calculation

Estimate required pneumatic rotary actuator torque from load mass, lever radius, angular acceleration, gravity orientation, friction, safety, and efficiency.

Engineering inputsRotary Actuator Torque Calculator

Enter the known application values. Outputs update instantly as units or assumptions change.

Motion input mode
Load orientation
Use these values for preliminary sizing before final datasheet review.

Engineering visual

Rotary Actuator Torque Calculator calculation map

The load rotates about the shaft; radius, mass, angular acceleration, inertia, and required torque are located where they act.

Rotary Actuator Torque Calculator calculation mapThe load rotates about the shaft; radius, mass, angular acceleration, inertia, and required torque are located where they act.TORQUE TRADIUS rMASS mSHAFT
  1. 01Load mass
  2. 02Calculate and compare
  3. 03Required torque
Required torque
Acceleration torque
Gravity load torque
Estimated inertia

Calculation reference

What this tool checks.

The estimate treats the load as a point mass at the entered radius. Off-center tooling, stops, bearing loads, and actuator torque curves need datasheet review.

Inputs

  • Load mass
  • Radius from shaft
  • Entered inertia
  • Motion input mode
  • Rotation angle
  • Rotation time
  • Angular acceleration
  • Orientation
  • Friction torque
  • Efficiency
  • Safety factor
  • Catalog torque
  • Catalog allowable kinetic energy

Outputs

  • Required torque
  • Acceleration torque
  • Gravity load torque
  • Used inertia
  • Maximum angular speed
  • Rotational kinetic energy
  • Catalog torque margin
  • Catalog energy utilization

Engineering guide

Use the result with the right context.

Calculate rotary actuator torque calculator from application data and interpret the result for preliminary pneumatic engineering review.

Calculation workflow
  1. Enter the known application values, including Load mass, Radius from shaft, Entered inertia.

  2. Run the calculation using one consistent set of units and reference conditions.

  3. Review Required torque, Acceleration torque, Gravity load torque, then compare the result with the component datasheet and application margin.

Assumptions and limits
  • Use gauge pressure at the actuator and account separately for downstream back pressure.

  • Confirm mounting, side load, cushioning, duty cycle, and catalog limits before final cylinder selection.

How the Rotary Actuator Torque Calculator works

This calculator turns Load mass, Radius from shaft, Entered inertia into Required torque, Acceleration torque, Gravity load torque. The governing relationship remains visible in the dedicated formula area so the result can be checked against a worksheet, supplier data, or measured machine values.

How to interpret the result

Use the output as a transparent first-pass engineering estimate, not an automatic product approval. Compare the calculated value with available catalog ratings, transient conditions, installation losses, service environment, and a safety margin appropriate to the machine risk.

Limits and verification

Use gauge pressure at the actuator and account separately for downstream back pressure. Confirm mounting, side load, cushioning, duty cycle, and catalog limits before final cylinder selection. The final selection remains subject to the actual component datasheet, applicable standards, and validation on the installed system.

FAQ

Common review questions.

01Tool noteWhy does vertical rotation need more torque?

A vertical or lifting motion adds gravitational load torque. Horizontal indexing usually focuses more on inertia, acceleration, and friction.

02Tool noteShould I size only from calculated torque?

No. Check actuator torque at the actual supply pressure, allowable radial/axial loads, stop energy, backlash, and mounting orientation.

03Tool noteWhat should I verify after using the Rotary Actuator Torque Calculator?

Check the entered units and reference conditions, then compare the calculated outputs with manufacturer ratings, application safety margins, transient loads, installation losses, and measured machine performance.