Orbital Steering Units

Precision Control Without Mechanical Linkage

Hydraulic orbital steering units are compact, high-performance devices used to control the direction of vehicles and machinery without a direct mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels. Instead, they rely on hydraulic fluid to transmit steering input, offering smooth, responsive control in mobile and off-highway applications.

At Hydraulics Online, we supply orbital steering units from a wide range of global manufacturers – including Danfoss and many others – with expert advice to help you select the right configuration for your steering system.

Our website shows only a selection of what we supply. For impartial advice and access to our full range of hydraulic components, contact our expert team.

orbital steering unit. For impartial advice and access to our full range of hydraulic components, contact our expert team.

An orbital steering unit is a hydraulic control device that converts the rotational input from the steering wheel into fluid flow, which then actuates steering cylinders connected to the wheels. These units are called “orbital” because of the internal gear-type rotary mechanism that enables precise, low-speed control.

Unlike traditional steering systems, orbital units:

Do not require a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels
Allow for flexible routing of hydraulic lines
Enable remote or joystick-based control in some systems

Smooth and precise steering – ideal for low-speed, high-torque applications
Compact and modular design – easy to integrate into mobile equipment
Flexible installation – supports multiple steering modes and configurations
Reliable performance – robust construction for harsh environments
Safety and redundancy options – available with load-sensing, priority valves, and emergency steering features

These features make orbital steering units essential in agricultural, construction, forestry, and marine vehicles.

Can orbital steering units be used in electric or hybrid vehicles? Yes, they are compatible with a wide range of power sources and can be integrated into electric or hybrid drive systems.

Do orbital units support emergency steering? Many models include built-in features for emergency steering, such as flow amplifiers or priority valves.

Are these units suitable for marine applications? Absolutely. Their compact design and hydraulic control make them ideal for steering systems in boats and offshore equipment.