General,

Steering
Components

Technical
Information
 General, Steering components
Technical information
A wide range of steering components

A WIDE RANGE OF
STEERING COMPONENTS

F300599 tif

Sauer-Danfoss is the largest producer in the world of steering components for hydro-
static steering systems on off-road vehicles. Sauer-Danfoss offer steering solutions both
at component and system levels. Our product range makes it possible to cover applica-
tions of all types - ranging from ordinary 2-wheel steering (also known as Ackermann
steering) to articulated steering, complicated 4-wheel steering, automatic steering (e.g.
by sensor) and remote controlled steering via satellite.
We can offer more than 1000 different steering units, 150 different priority valves and 300
different steering columns categorised in types, variants and sizes.

For hydrostatic steering systems Sauer-Danfoss offers:

• Mini steering units with displacements from 32 to 100 cm3/rev. [1.95 to 6.10 in3/rev],
flow up to 20 l/min [5.28 US gal/min], steering pressure up to 125 bar [1812 psi].
• Steering units with displacements from 40 to 1000 cm3/rev. [2.44 to 61.0 in3/rev] , flow
up to 100 l/min [26.4 US gal/min], steering pressure up to 210 bar [3045 psi].
• Priority valves for rated flows at 40, 80, 120 and 160 l/min [10.6, 21.1, 31,7 and 42.2 US
gal/min], pressure up to 350 bar (5076 psi)
• Pilot operated flow-amplifiers with amplification factors of 4, 5, 8,10 or 20 for rated
oil flows of 240 and 400 l/min [63.4 and 106 US gal/min), steering pressure up to 210
bar (3045 psi).
• Pilot operated steering valve with steering flow up to 100 l/min [26.4 US gal/min]
steering pressure up to 250 bar (3625 psi) and with integrated priority valve for pump
flow up to 150 l/min [39.6 Us gal/min]

© 2001, Sauer-Danfoss

Sauer-Danfoss can accept no responsbility for possible errors in catalogues, brochures and other printed or electronic material. Sauer-Danfoss
reserves the right to alter its products without prior notice. This also applies to products already ordered provided that such alterations can be
made without subsequent changes being necessary in specifications already agreed. All trademarks in this material are properties of the respective
companies. Sauer-Danfoss and the Sauer-Danfoss logotype are trademarks of the Sauer-Danfoss Group. All rights reserved.

Frontpage:
Photos: F 300616 tif, F300618 tif, F300612 tif, F300620 tif, F300611 tif, F300607 tif, F300630 tif, F300631 tif, F300600 tif
Drawing: 150 - 577. ai

2 DKMH.PK.200.A2.02 Rev. A - 2002 520L0468

 General, Steering components
Technical information
A wide range of steering components

A WIDE RANGE OF For electro-hydraulic steering systems Sauer-Danfoss offers:

STEERING COMPONENT • Pilot operated steering valve (pilot operated by hydrostatic steering unit or by electri-
(CONTINUED) cal signal) with steering flow up to 100 l/min [26.4 US gal/min], steering pressure up to
250 bar [3625 psi] and with integrated priority valve for pump flow up to 150 l/min
[39.6 US gal/min].

For hydromechanical steering systems Sauer-Danfoss offers:

• Torque amplifiers for output torques of 80 and 120 Nm [708 and 1062 lbf.in]

For steering units and torque amplifiers Sauer-Danfoss offers:

• Steering columns: fixed, tiltable and/or telescopible with or without horn switch and
sensor for start/stop of pump, with length from 45 to 1200 mm [1.77 to 47.3 inch].

Characteristic features of steering units:

• Low steering torque: From 0.5 Nm to 3.0 Nm [4.43 to 26.6 lbf.in] in normal steering
situations
• Low noise level
• Low pressure drop
• Many types available: Open center None reaction, Open center Reaction, Closed center
None reaction, Load Sensing, Load Sensing Reaction, Power Beyond.
• One or more built-in valve functions: relief valve, shock and suction valves in L- and R-
line, non return valve in P-line and in LS-line
• Optional port connections (according to ISO, SAE or DIN standards)

Characteristic features for electro-hydraulic steering system:

• High steering pressure requiring smaller cylinders and flow
• Low noise emmision in the cab because of low pilot pressure
• The possibility of emergency steering even on very heavy vehicles
• Minimization of side acceleration with articulated steering
• With micro controller: No steering wheel drift and the possibility of variable steering
ratio
• Analogue and CAN-bus interface
• Electrohydraulic steering valve EHPS can be combined with Sauer-Danfoss PVG 32
proportional valve
• The system is approved by TÜV and have a controller with safety critical steering
software

CONVERSION FACTORS 1 Nm = [8.851 lbf.in] 1 cm3 = [0.061 in3]

1N = [0.2248 lbf ] 1l = [0.264 US gal]
1 bar = [14.50 psi] °F = [1.8 °C + 32]
1 mm = [0.0394 in]

520L0468 3
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Contents and technical literature survey

CONTENTS AND Steering concepts ............................................................................................................................................................6

TECHNICAL LITERATURE Hydrostatic steering systems, open center and load sensing .......................................................................6
SURVEY Hydromechanical steering system ..........................................................................................................................7
Electro-hydraulic steering system ...........................................................................................................................8

Steering components, general ..................................................................................................................................9

Steering components, product overview.......................................................................................................... 13

Steering components, main data and features .............................................................................................. 14

OSPM mini-steering units........................................................................................................................................ 14
OSPB, OSPC, OSPR, OSPD open center steering units................................................................................... 14
OSPB closed center steering units ....................................................................................................................... 16
TAD torque amplifier ................................................................................................................................................. 16
OSPB,OSPC, OSPF, OSPR, OSPD, OSPQ, OSPL, load sensing steering units............................................. 17
OLS priority valves...................................................................................................................................................... 19
OSQ flow amplifier ..................................................................................................................................................... 20
EHPS pilot operated steering valves.................................................................................................................... 21
OVP, OVPL and OVR valve blocks........................................................................................................................... 23
OTP steering columns ............................................................................................................................................... 24

Hydrostatic steering systems.................................................................................................................................. 25

Open center steering system ................................................................................................................................. 25
Load sensing steering systems .............................................................................................................................. 25

Choice of steering concept and components.................................................................................................. 27

Legislation of steering systems ............................................................................................................................. 27

General information.................................................................................................................................................... 28
Technical data, common .......................................................................................................................................... 28
Manual steering pressure ........................................................................................................................................ 28
Calculation of steering systems............................................................................................................................. 29
Oil types ......................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Particle content, degree of contamination and filtering .............................................................................. 35
Installation..................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Tightening torques .................................................................................................................................................... 36
Starting up and running in ..................................................................................................................................... 36
Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................................ 36

Examples of steering systems................................................................................................................................. 37

OSPC................................................................................................................................................................................ 37
OSPC, OSPF.................................................................................................................................................................... 37
OSPD, OSPQ .................................................................................................................................................................. 39
OSQ.................................................................................................................................................................................. 40
OSQB/OLSQ .................................................................................................................................................................. 42
EHPS ................................................................................................................................................................................ 43
Load sensing system ................................................................................................................................................. 45

4 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Contents and technical literature survey

SURVEY OF LITERATURE Detailed data on all Sauer-Danfoss steering components and accessories can be found in
WITH TECHNICAL DATA our steering component catalogues, which is divided in 6 individual subcatalogues:
ON SAUER-DANFOSS
STEERING COMPONENTS • General information Steering components
DKMH.PK.200.A1.02 520L0468

• Technical data on mini steering units and OSPM and OTPM

steering columns for mini steering units: DKMH.PN.210.PC.02 520L0438

• Technical data on open center, closed center OSPB, OSPC, OSPR, OSPD and TAD
steering units and torque amplifiers: DKMH.PK.210.A1.02 520L0502

• Technical data on load sensing steering OSPB,OSPC,OSPF,OSPD,OSPQ,

units, priority valves and flow-amplifiers: OSPL,OSPBX,OSPLX,OLSandOSQ
DKMH.PN.210.B1.02 520L0520

• Technical data on hydraulic and electro- EHPS and OSPCX

hydraulic pilot operated steering valve, PVE and PVED for EHPS and sensors
appropriate steering units, electrical for steering systems with EHPS
actuation module as well as on sensors for DKMH.PN.270.B1.02 520L0521
electro-hydraulic steering systems

• Technical data on valve blocks and OVP, OVPL, OVR and OTPB
steering columns DKMH.PN.230.A1.02 520L0522

The most important data on all Sauer-Danfoss steering components is highlighted in a

general survey brochure.
For technical informations on individual variants, please contact the Sauer-Danfoss Sales
Organisation.

520L0468 5
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering concepts

HYDROSTATIC STEERING Sauer-Danfoss steering components are used in vehicles where the driver has to control
high steering forces, reliably, comfortably and with maximum safety.

Steering units OSPM/OSPB/OSPC/OSPF/OSPR/OSPD/OSPQ/OSPL.

The operation of Sauer-Danfoss steering units OSP- is hydrostatic. That is to say, there is
no mechanical connection between the steering column and the steered wheels.
Instead there are hydraulic pipes and hoses between steering unit and steering cylinder(s).
When the steering wheel is turned, the steering unit meters out an oil volume propor-
tional to the rate of rotation of the steering wheel. This volume is directed to the
appropriate side of the steering
cylinder, while simultaneously
the displaced oil is directed to
tank.
In open center systems the
steering unit is supplied with
oil from a separate pump with
fixed displacement.

F300596 tif

Open center hydrostatic steering system

In load sensing (LS)systems one

pump can supply oil to steering
system and to working hydraulics.
A priority valve ensures that
steering always has first priority.

F300456 tif

Load sensing hydrostatic steering system

6 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering concepts

HYDROSTATIC STEERING Flow-amplifiers OSQA/OSQB

In large vehicles and ships the steering units can be used with Sauer-Danfoss Flow-
amplifiers which amplify the oil flow to the steering cylinders. These systems with
steering units and flow-amplifiers also include an inbuilt priority valve which ensures that
the steering takes priority.
When the steering wheel is turned, the oil flow is divided in the flow-amplifier in such
a way as to ensure that the necessary oil flow is led to the steering system.
The rest of the oil flow is available for the working hydraulics.

F30595 tif

Load sensing hydrostatic steering system with flow amplifier

HYDROMECHANICAL Torque amplifier TAD

STEERING SYSTEM The operation of Sauer-Danfoss torque amplifiers TAD is hydromechanical. This means
that there is a mechanical connection between steering wheel and steered wheels.
When the steering wheel is turned, the output shaft turns in the same direction.
The transmission ratio is 1:1.
If the oil supply fails, the torque amplifier operates manually.

F300592 tif

Hydromechanical steering system

520L0468 7
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering concepts

ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC Electro-hydraulic steering

STEERING SYSTEM On loaders, large forklift trucks, dumpers, heavy tractors, combine harvesters, maize har-
vesters and other similar machines there is often need for electrically actuated steering
either in the form of a joystick, or fully automatic.
For this purpose Sauer-Danfoss has developed a pilot operated steering valve, EHPS:
Electro Hydraulic Power Steering.
A basic system (type 0) consists of a pilot steering unit as the signal source and an EHPS
valve block which controls oil flow to the steering cylinders proportional to the pilot flow.
The system can be extended to include an electrical actuator so that, as an alternative, it
becomes possible to steer with a joystick (EHPS type 1).
In addition, the valve block can be supplied with built-in micro controller and safety
critical steering software (EHPS type 2). A steering system with EHPS type 2 means no
steering wheel drift and posibility of variable sterring ratio.

F300597 tif

Electro-hydraulic steering system

8 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, general

STEERING UNITS: The steering unit consists of a rotary valve and a rotary meter.
OSPM, OSPB, OSPC, Via a steering column the steering unit is connected to the steering wheel of the vehicle.
OSPR, OSPF, AND OSPL When the steering wheel is turned, oil is directed from the steering system pump via the
rotary valve (spool and sleeve) and rotary meter (gear wheel set) to the cylinder ports L or
R, depending on the direction of turn. The rotary meter meters the oil flow to the steering
cylinder in proportion to the angular rotation of the steering wheel. If the oil flow from
the steering system pump is too small, the steering unit can function as a manual pump -
assuming the conditions as described in "Manual steering pressure" on page 28.

1. Check valve
2. Shock valve
3. Relief valve
4. Housing with
anticavitation
valves
5. Spool
6. Neutral position
spring
7. Sleeve
8. Cross pin
9. Cardan shaft
10. Distributor plate
11. Gear wheel
12. Gear rim
13. End cover

STEERING UNIT WITH 2 The basic function of this type is like the main group of Sauer-Danfoss steering units,
ROTARY METERS: OSPD except the gearwheel set (rotary meter). OSPD has 2 rotary meters, which are
mechanically connected. A shift valve determines whether only one or both rotary
meters are active. In the case of no pump supply only one rotary meter is active for
emergency steering. In normal steering situations both rotary meters are active.

1. Housing with
spool/sleeve set
and valves
2. Cardan shafts
3. Housing for shift
valve
4. Shift valve
5. Distributor plate
6. Gear wheel sets
7. Intermediate
plates
8. End cover

520L0468 9
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, general

STEERING UNIT WITH The basic function of this type is like the main group of Sauer-Danfoss steering units,
AMPLIFIER VALVE: except the rotary valve and an amplification valve. OSPQ has an amplification valve,
OSPQ which adds flow to the oil passing through the rotary meter. In the case of no pump
supply (emergency steering) and at steering wheel speed less than about 10 rev/min
only the rotary meter is active. In normal steering situation at steering with higher
steering wheel speeds, oil is also led to the steering cylinder via the built-in amplification
valve.
1. Amplification valve parts
2. Housing with valve parts
3. Spool
4. Neutral position spring
5. Sleeve
6. Gear wheel set with
cardan shaft, distributor
plate and end cover

PRIORITY VALVES: In systems with Sauer-Danfoss priority valves and load sensing steering units, steering
OLSA AND OLS has first priority. When the steering wheel is turned, the oil flow is distributed in the
priority valve in such a way that the oil flow necessary for steering is led to the steering
unit through the CF (controlled flow) connection. The remaining oil flow is available for
the working hydraulics through the EF (excess flow) connection.
The distribution is controlled by the LS signal from the steering unit, so that the oil flow
to the steering unit is always determined by the actual steering rate.

1. Plug
2. Damping orifice
(PP)
3. Spool
4. Housing
5. Spring
6. LS-plug with
LS-orifice

10 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, general

FLOW-AMPLIFIERS: The flow-amplifiers OSQA and OSQB contain a directional valve, an amplification valve, a
OSQA AND OSQB priority valve, a pilot pressure relief valve, shock and suction valves.
In addition OSQB contains a back pressure valve. The flow-amplifier amplifies the oil flow
from the steering unit cylinder ports L or R by an amplification factor of 4, 5, 8, 10 or 20.
The amplified oil flow is directed from the flow-amplifier ports CL or CR to the steering
cylinder(s). The amplified flow is proportional to the rate of the steering wheel rotation.
If the oil flow from the pump fails, the flow-amplifier cuts off the amplification and
manual steering through the steering unit is possible under the same conditions as
those mentioned in the section: Manual steering pressure, page 28.
The pressure drop through the flow-amplifier at manual steering is about 5 bar [72.5 psi].

1. Housing
2. Shock and suction valves
3. Back pressure valve
4. Directional spool
5. Pilot pressure relief valve
6. Priority valve
7 Amplification valve

520L0468 11
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, general

STEERING VALVE EHPS The EHPS is a pilot operated directional valve. Oil from a pilot steering unit or an electrical
signal can actuate the steering valve.

Basicly the EHPS valve contains a directional valve, a priority valve, a pilot relief valve, a
pilot pressure control valve, and shock- and suction valves.
An electric actuation module, PVE, can be fitted onto the EHPS valve. In the type 1 system
the controller is operated by an analog signal and the type 2 system the signal is digital
with Canbus interface and it comprises a micro processor with safety critcal steering
software.
The pilot for the directional valve in EHPS can be supplied either by the flow from steering
unit (cylinder port L or R), or by the flow from the electric actuation module PVE/PVED.

1. Electrical actuation module

PVE/PVED
2. Housing
3. Directional spool
4. Shock and suction valve
5. Pilot pressure reduction valve
for steering unit
6. Pilot pressure valve for
electrical actuating module
7. Priority valve
8. Cover
9. Emergency steering valve
10. Pilot pressure relief valve

12 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, product overview

Type Variants Description

STEERING UNITS OSPM ON, PB Mini steering unit for smaller vehicles
ON, CN,
OSPB Steering unit with no valve functions
LS,
ON, OR, LS, LSd
OSPC Steering unit with valve functions
LSR, LSRd
OSPR ON, OR Steering unit with valve functions and rear porting
Steering unit full drain dynamic load sensing and with
OSPF LSd
valve functions
ON, LSd,
OSPD Steering unit with 2 displacements and with valve functions
LSRd
OSPQ LSd, LSRd Steering unit with flow amplification and with valve functions
OSPL LS, LSd Steering unit for larger vehicles
OSPBX LS Pilot steering unit for OSQ static
OSPLX LS Pilotsteering unit for OSQ static
OSPCX LSd Pilot steering unit for OSQ dynamic
OSPCX CN Pilot steering unit for EHPS

PRIORITY VALVES OLSA LS, LSd Priority valve for flanging on steering unit
OLS LS, LSd Priority valve for in line use

FLOW-AMPLIFIERS OSQA LS Flow-amplifier

OSQB LS Flow-amplifier with back pressure valve
OSQB/OLSQ LSd Flow-amplifier with priority valve for emergency circuit

STEERING VALVE EHPS type 0 LSd Pilot operated steering valve

ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC EHPS type 1 LSd Pilot operated steering valve with electrical actuation module
POWER STEERING Pilot operated steering valve with programmable
EHPS type 2 LSd
electrical actuation module

TORQUE AMPLIFIER TAD - Torque amplifier

VALVE BLOCKS OVP - Valve block for OSPB

OVPL - Valve block for OSPL
OVR - Angular block for side ported steering units

STEERING COLUMNS OTPM - Steering column for OSPM

OTPB - Steering column for all OSP except OSPM
OTP-TT - Steering column with tilt and telescope

VARIANT ON: Open center Non-reaction LS: Load Sensing, static

EXPLANATIONS OR: Open center Reaction LSd: Load Sensing, dynamic
CN: Closed center Non-reaction LSR: Load Sensing Reaction, static
PB: Power Beyond LSRd: Load Sensing Reaction, dynamic

520L0468 13
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSPM For light vehicles such as garden tractors,

municipal vehicles, lawn mowers, small
fork lift trucks, etc., Sauer-Danfoss offers
OSPM hydrostatic steering units.

The OSPM mini-steering unit is available in

two versions:
• Open center Non-reaction (ON)
• Power Beyond (PB),where surplus oil
F300016 tif
can be led to working hydraulics.

Main data of OSPM

• Displacement: 32 - 100 cm3/rev [1.95 - 6.10 in3/rev]
• Flow, recommended: 3 - 20 l/min [0.79 - 5.28 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 125 bar [1812 psi]
• Max. back pressure (T): 20 bar [290 psi]

Features of OSPM:
• Small dimensions and low weight
• Low steering torque 0.5 to 1.5 Nm [4.43 to 13.28 lbf.in]
• One or more built-in valve functions:
pressure relief, shock in L + R (servo ports Left and Right) and / or non return in P
(Pump connection)
• End ports with integrated fittings (ORFS): O-ring face seal
• Possibility of integrated steering column

OSPB, OSPC, OSPR, OSPD For small to large vehicles typically tractors, harvesters, fork lifts, contractors machines
OPEN CENTER STEERING and special vehicles, etc., Sauer Danfoss offers a wide range of hydrostatic steering units.
UNITS For open circuit systems, where a seperate fixed displacement pump is supplying the
steering system with oil the following types of Sauer-Danfoss steering units are suitable:
OSPB, OSPC, OSPR and OSPD

OSPB ON The OSPB Open center steering unit is

avaiable in one version:
• Open center Non-reaction (ON)

Main data of OSPB ON:

• Displacement :
50 - 500 cm3/rev [3.05 - 30.5 in3/rev]
• Flow, recommended:
5 - 70 l/min [1.32 - 18.5 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar
[3045psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]
F300619 tif

14 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSPC ON/OR The OSPC Open center steering unit is

available in two versions:
• Open center Non-reaction (ON)
• Open center Reaction (OR)

Main data of OSPC ON:

• Displacement : 40 - 500 cm3/rev
[2.44 - 30.51 in3/rev]
• Flow, recommended: 4 - 70 l/min
[1.06 - 18.49 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: b
21ar0
[3045psi] F300618 tif
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Main data of OSPC OR:

• Displacement : 40 - 200 cm3/rev [2.44 - 12.21 in3/rev]
• Flow, recommended: 4 - 50 l/min [1.06 - 13.21 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]

Features of OSPB and OSPC Open center steering units:

• Low steering torque 0.8 to 3.0 Nm [7.08 to 26.6 lbf.in] in normal steering situations due
to low effort springs and wide control range.
• Low noise due to laminar flow conditions throughout profile-grinded passages.
• OSPC: one or several built in valve functions: pressure relief, shock in L + R, suction in
L + R and / or non-return in P.

OSPR ON/OR The OSPR Open center steering unit is

available in two version:
• Open center Non-reaction (ON) version
• Open center Reaction (OR) version

Main data of OSPR ON and OSPR OR:

• Displacement :
70 - 200 cm3/rev [4.27 - 12.21 in3/rev]
• Flow, recommended:
5 - 30 l/min [1.32 - 7.93 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure:
175 bar [2538 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 20 bar [290 psi] F300621 tif

Features of OSPR Open center steering units:

• Low steering torque in normal steering situations
• Low noise
• One or several built in valve functions: pressure relief, shock in L + R, suction in L + R
and / or non-return in P
• End ports with integrated fittings (ORFS)

520L0468 15
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSPD ON/OR The OSPD Open center steering unit is

available in two version:
• Open center Non-reaction (ON) version
• Open center Reaction (OR) version

Main data of OSPD ON:

• Displacement :
· From 60 cm3/rev to max 125 cm3/rev [3.66 to
max. 7.63 in3/rev] during manual steering F300613 tif

without pump oil supply and with one rotary meter active.
· From 185 cm3/rev up to 440 cm3/rev [11.3 up to 26.9 in3/rev] at full oil supply and
with both rotary meters active.
• Flow, recommended: 19 - 70 l/min [5.02 - 18.49 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Main data of OSPD OR

• Displacement:
· 60 cm3/rev or 70 cm3/rev [3.66 in3 or 4.27in3/rev] during manual steering
· From 185 cm3/rev up to 220 cm3/rev [11.28 up to 13.42 in3/rev] at full oil supply
• Flow recommended: 12 - 50 l/min [3.17 - 13.21 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Features of OSPD Open center steering units:

• Features like OSPC Open center steering units plus:
· Possibility of manual steering of heaviest vehicles, without the need for an
emergency pump.

OSPB CLOSED CENTER For constant-pressure systems with variable pump flow Sauer-Danfoss offers the steering
STEERING UNITS unit types: OSPB CN
OSPB CN
The OSPB closed center steering unit is available in one version:
• Closed center Non-reaction (CN)

Main data of OSPB CN:

• Displacement: 50 - 400 cm3/rev [3.05 - 24.4 in3/rev]
• Flow: 5 - 50 l/min [1.32 - 13.20 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 175 bar [2538 psi] F300619 tif
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

TAD TORQUE AMPLIFIER For hydromechanical steering systems Sauer Dan-

foss offers the torque amplifier type:
TAD. The TAD is used for smaller vehicles, where
a mechanical connection between steering wheel
and steered wheels are required.

Main data of TAD:

• Displacement: 100 - 160 cm3/rev
[6.10 - 9.76 in3/rev]
F300616 tif
• Flow: 10 - 16 l/min [2.64 - 4.23 US gal/min]

16 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSPB,OSPC, OSPF, OSPR, For small to large vehicles typically tractors, harvesters, fork lifts, contractors machines
OSPD, OSPQ, OSPL, LOAD and special vehicles, etc., Sauer Danfoss also offers a wide range of hydrostatic
SENSING STEERING steering units of the Load Sensing (LS) types: OSPB, OSPC,OSPF, OSPD and OSPQ
UNITS LS steering units are for Load Sensing systems, where oil is supplied by a pump via a
priority valve or from a pump with variable displacement.

OSPB LS AND The OSPB and OSPC Load Sensing steering

OSPC LS/LSR unit is available in three versions:
• Load Sensing non-reaction (LS) static
• Load Sensing non-reaction (LS) dynamic
• Load Sensing Reaction (LSR) dynamic
(onlyOSPC)

Main data of OSPB LS and OSPC LS: F300617 tif

• Displacement: 40 - 400 cm3/rev [2.44 - 24.4 in3/rev]

• Flow: 4 - 40 l/min [1.06 - 10.57 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: up to 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Main data of OSPC LSR:

• Displacement: 40 - 200 cm3/rev [2.44 - 12.20 in3/rev]
• Flow: 4 - 20 l/min [1.06 - 5.28 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Features of OSPB and OSPC Load Sensing steering units:

• Low steering torque 0.8 to 3.0 Nm [ 7.08 to 26.55 lbf.in] in normal steering situations
• Low noise
• OSPC: one or several built in valve functions: pilot pressure relief, shock in L + R, suction in
L + R and/or non-return in P. OSPC LS/LSR Dynamic: non-return valve in LS-connection.

OSPF LS The OSPF Load Sensing steering unit is available in one version:

• Full drain Load Sensing non-reaction

(LS)dynamic

Main data of OSPF LS:

• Displacement: 80 - 400 cm3/rev [4.88 - 24.4 in3/rev]
F300617 tif
• Flow: 8 - 40 l/min [2.11 - 10.57 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Features of OSPF Load Sensing steering units:

• Low steering torque 0.5 to 1.8 Nm [4.43 to 15.93 lbf.in]in normal steering situations
• Low noise and wide control range
• Higher max. steering speed, limited only by the capacity of the pump and the pressure
setting
• One or several built in valve functions: pilot pressure relief, shock in L + R, suction in
L + R and / or non-return in P.

520L0468 17
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSPD LS/LSR The OSPD Load Sensing steering unit is

available in two versions:
• Load Sensing non-reaction (LS) dynamic
• Load Sensing Reaction (LSR) dynamic

Main data of OSPD LS:

• Displacement :
· From 60 cm3/rev to max 125 cm3/rev [3.66 to max. 7.63 in3/rev] during F300612 tif
manual steering without oil supply and with one rotary meter active.
· From 185 cm3/rev up to 440 cm3/rev [11.28 up to 26.9 in3/rev] at full oil supply and
with both rotary meters active.
• Flow: 19 - 44 l/min [5.02 - 11.62 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Features of OSPD Load Sensing steering units:

• Features like OSPC LS plus :
· Possibility of manual steering of heaviest vehicles, without the need for an emergency pump.

Main data of OSPD LSR:

• Displacement :
· From 60 cm3/rev or 70 cm3/rev [3.66 or 4.27 in3/rev] during manual steering
· From 185 cm3/rev to 220 cm3/rev [11.28 to 13.42 in3/rev] at full oil supply
• Flow: 19 - 22 l/min [5.02 - 5.81 US gal/min]
• Max. steerring pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

OSPQ LS/LSR The OSPQ Load Sensing steering unit is

available in two versions:
• Load Sensing non-reaction (LS) dynamic
• Load Sensing Reaction (LSR) dynamic

Main data of OSPQ LS: F300615 tif

• Displacement :
• From 80 cm3/rev to 160 cm3/rev [4.88 to 9.76 in3/rev] during manual steering with
out pump oil supply and in normal steering situations at steering wheel speed less
than about 10 rev/min.
• From 100 cm3/rev to 320 cm3/rev [6.10 to 19.53 in3/rev] at full oil supply and with
steering wheel speed above 20 rev/min.
• Flow: 8 - 32 l/min [2.11 - 8.45 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Main data of OSPQ LSR:

• Displacement :
• From 80 cm3/rev to 160 cm3/rev [4.88 to 9.76 in3/rev] during manual steering
without oil supply and in normal steering.
• From 100 cm3/rev to 200 cm3/rev [6.10 to 12.21in3/rev] at full oil supply.

Features of OSPQ Load Sensing steering units:

• Features like OSPC LS plus
• Possibility of manual steering of heavier vehicles, without the need for an emergency pump.

18 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSPL LS For larger vehicles typically heavy fork lift

trucks, loaders and dumpers, Sauer-Danfoss
also offers a hydrostatic steering units of
the Load Sensing (LS) type optimized for
high steering flow: OSPL.

The OSPL Load Sensing steering unit is

available in two versions:
• Load Sensing non-reaction (LS) static F300611 tif

• Load Sensing non-reaction (LS) dynamic

Main data of OSPL LS:

• Displacement : 520 - 1000 cm3/rev [31.8 - 61.0 in3/rev]
• Flow: 52 - 100 l/min [13.74 - 26.4 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]
• Max. back pressure: 40 bar [580 psi]

Features of OSPL Load Sensing steering units:

• Low steering torque 0.8 to 3.0 Nm [7.08 to 26.6 lbf. in] in normal steering situations
• Low noise
• Low pressure drop even at high flow
• Possibility of built in valve function: pilot pressure relief valve. The OVPL valve block
for OSPL contains shock L + R, suction L + R, non-return in pump line and / or back
pressure valve in tank connection.

OLSA/OLS PRIORITY For Load Sensing systems, Sauer-Danfoss offers a wide range of priority valves:
VALVES Priority valves for flang mounting to Sauer-Danfoss LS-Steering units:
OLSA (Except for OSPR, OSPQ and OSPL)
Priority valves for in-line use: OLS
OLSA

The OLSA and OLS priority valves are

F300625 tif
available in two versions:
• Static and
• Dynamic
OLS 40/80
Main data of OLSA:
• Flow, rated: 40 or 80 l/min
[10.57 - 21.1 US gal/min] F300624 tif
• Max. system pressure: 250 bar [3625 psi]

Main data of OLS:

• Flow, rated: 40, 80, 120 or 160 l/min OLS 120
[10.57, 21.1, 31.7 or 42.3 US gal/min]
• Max. system pressure: 250 bar [3625 psi]
F300623 tif
• OLS 160: 350 bar [5076 psi] on P and EF
port

Features of OLSA and OLS priority valves: OLS 160

• Low noise valves
• OLS 160: available with pilot pressure
relief valve F300622 tif

520L0468 19
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OSQ FLOW AMPLIFIER For very heavy vehicles typically very large OSQB
fork lift trucks, loaders, dumpers and special
vehicles weighing one hundred ton or more,
Sauer-Danfoss offers a flow-amplifier to
amplifie the oil from the stering unit: OSQ.
The OSQ is based on the load sensing
steering principle.

The OSQ is available in three versions: F300630 tif

• OSQA for normal fittings connection
• OSQB with back pressure valve in
tank connection and for flange type
OSQB/OLSQ
fittings
• OSQB/OLSQ with priority valve for
emergency steering circuit

Main data of OSQ:

• Amplification factors : 4, 5, 8,10 or 20
• Total displacement of steering system:
640 - 4160 cm3/rev [39 - 254 in3/rev]
• Flow: OSQA: 240 l/min [63.4 US gal/min] F300646 tif

OSQB: 400 l/min [105.7 US gal/min]

• Max. steering pressure: 210 bar [3045 psi]

Features of OSQ flow-amplifier:

• High steering capacity
• Low pressure drop even at high flow
• Possibility of built in valve functions: pilot pressure relief valve, priority valve, shock
and suction valves in L + R. OSQB also has back pressure valve in tank connection.
• OSQB/OLSQ has flanged on priority valve for emergency steering circuit

OSPBX LS
PILOT STEERING UNITS: The OSQ flow-amplifiers require special
OSPBX, OSPLX, OSPCX pilot steering units of the type
LOAD SENSING STEERING • OSPBX LS
UNITS • OSPLX LS or
• OSPCX LS
which are all load-sensing steering units
whose L- and R- connections are open
to tank in neutral position.
F300614 tif
The “X LS” steering units are available in three versions:
• OSPBX LS for OSQA and OSQB
• OSPLX LS for OSQA and OSQB
• OSPCX LS with pilot pressure relief valve for OSQB/OLSQ

Main data of the “X LS” steering units:

Displacement OSPBX LS and OSPCX LS 160 - 400 cm3/rev [9.76 - 24.4 in3]
Displacement OSPLX LS 520 - 630 cm3/rev [31.7 - 38.4 in3]
Maximum steering pressure 210 bar [3045 psi]

20 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

EHPS PILOT OPERATED For larger vehicles typically big tractors,

STEERING VALVES heavy fork lift trucks, loaders and dumpers,
Sauer Danfoss also offers a hydraulic and
electro-hydraulic pilot operated steering
valve type EHPS.
EHPS systems are available in three versions.
F300609 tif

EHPS TYPE 0 EHPS Type 0, hydrostatic steering system:

EHPS Type 0 is a purely hydraulic steering system with the EHPS valve acting as a pilot
operated directional valve. A steering unit acts as a pilot unit delivering oil at a low pres-
sure and low flow. The steering unit needs less displacement as in an ordinary hydrostatic
steering system. The displacement can be optimised for emergency steering.

EHPS TYPE 1 EHPS Type 1, hydrostatic and electro-

hydraulic steering system:
This system consists of an EHPS valve
(type 0) equipped with an electrical
activation unit (PVE). There are 2 possibi-
lities of steering:
either hydraulic with the steering wheel or
electrical using a signal from, for example,
a joystick.
F300610 tif
The valve gives highest priority to the
signal from the steering wheel.

520L0468 21
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

EHPS TYPE 2 EHPS Type 2, hydrostatic and electro-

hydraulic steering system:
This system consists of an EHPS valve equi-
ped with an electrical activation unit (PVED),
steering wheel sensor and position sensor.
Then it is possible to steer by wire with
active hydraulic back up.
The safety system in the integrated micro-
controller gives steering with an electrical F300610 tif

signal a very high level of safety. The characteristics are variable steering ratio on the
steering wheel, elimination of steering wheel drift and the possibility of communicating
with automatic steering.

Main data of EHPS:

• Flow for steering: up to 100 l/min [26.4 US gal/min]
• Max. steering pressure: 250 bar [3625psi]
• Max. pump flow to priority valve in EHPS: 150 l/min [31.6 US gal/min]

Features of EHPS:
• High steering pressure requiring smaller steering cylinders.
• Low pilot pressure up to 30 bar [435 psi] for the pilot steering function giving an
extremely low noise level in the cab.
• With integrated valve functions: pilot pressure relief, priority, shock and suction in
L + R and pilot pressure control.
• Possibility of emergency steering (manual) in the event of pump failure.
• Minimal side acceleration on vehicles with articulated steering.
• Micro controller with safety critical software means:
• No steering wheel drift.
• Possibility of variable steering ratio.
• Possibility of automatic steering
• CAN-bus interface.
• EHPS can be built together with Sauer-Danfoss proportional valves (PVG 32).

PILOT STEERING UNIT The EHPS pilot operated steering valve requires a special pilot steering unit, viz:
OSPCX CN FOR EHPS • OSPCX CN
that is a closed-center steering unit whose L- and R-connections are open to tank in
neutral position.

Main data of the OSPC CN steering units:

Displacement: 50-200 cm3/rev [3.05 - 12.20 in3]
Maximum pilot steering pressure: 30 bar (435 PSI)

22 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OVP, OVPL AND OVR For OSPB steering units, which are without incorporated valve functions, Sauer-Danfoss
VALVE BLOCKS offer the valve block type OVP.

The OVP valve block is available in one

version:
• OVP with pressure relief, shock, suction, and
check valves

Main data of OVP:

• Pressure setting of shock valves:
max. 240 bar [3480 psi]
F300628 tif
• Pump flow:
up to 80 l/min [21.1 US gal/min]

For the OSPL Load Sensing unit Sauer-Danfoss offers a flange on valve block: OVPL

Main data of OVPL:

• Flow: 100l/min[26.4USgal/min]
• Max. pressure setting: 270 bar
[3916 psi] on shock valves

Features of OVPL valve block:

• Double service ports (2x L and 2x R) as
option
• Possibility of built in valve functions:
shock and suction in L + R, non-return in F300629 tif

pump line, back pressure in tank line.

The OVR is designed specially for applica-

tions where pipes and/or hoses must run
parallel with the steering column axis of
the steering unit, and where space are
limited.
The OVR contains no valve functions.
F300626 tif

The OVP, OVPL and OVR can only be used in connection with steering units without
spot facing around the port connections on the port surface.

520L0468 23
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Steering components, main data and features

OTP STEERING COLUMNS For all Sauer-Danfoss steering units we

offer a wide range of steering columns:
• OTPM, OTPM-T and OTPM-TT steering
columns for mini steering units OSPM.
• OTPB, OTP-T and OTP-TT for all other
types of Sauer-Danfoss steering units
and for torque amplifiers.

The steering columns can be supplied

in many variants:
• Length from 45 to 1200 mm
[1.77 - 47.2 in]
• Several different connections for
steeringwheel
• With or without sensor for electrical
driven hydraulic pump
• With or without horn connection
• Can be supplied complete with
installationbrackets
• Different options for noise and vibration F300604 tif

suppression available
• Cover to hide cables.

OTP-TT steering columns can be tilted and/or are telescopic.

The angle of tilt is from -25° to + 25° and length is from 280 to 850 mm [11.02 - 33.5 in]

24 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Hydrostatic steering systems

OPEN CENTER In Open center systems a fixed displace-

STEERING SYSTEM ment pump constantly supplies oil to the
steering circuit separately.

Features of open center steering sys-

tems with Sauer-Danfoss open center
steering units:

• Immediate reaction of the steered

wheels, once the steering wheel begins
to turn.
• High steering comfort maintained
throughout significant changes of
steering load and pump oil flow.
• Damping characteristics when system-
conditioned pressure variations occur.
• Simple system build-up with stable
steering under all conditions.

LOAD SENSING In Load Sensing steering systems the oil

STEERING SYSTEMS for the steering system is supplied by a
pump via a priority valve or from a pump
with variable displacement.
For Load Sensing systems Sauer-Danfoss
offers 3 basic types of steering units:

Features of Load Sensing Static steer-

ing systems with Sauer-Danfoss LS
Static steering units:

OSP LS Static
• First generation of load sensing
• No flow through the steering unit
when not steering: minimum loss of
energy.

520L0468 25
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Hydrostatic steering systems

LOAD SENSING Features of Load Sensing Dynamic

STEERING SYSTEMS steering systems with Sauer-Danfoss
(CONTINUED) LS Dynamic steering units:

OSP LS Dynamic
• Second generation of load sensing
• Constant flow through the unit when
not steering, recommended level:
0,6 - 0,9 l/min [0.16 - 0.24 US gal/min]
• Dynamic flow causes quick reaction
time when starting to steer (no hard
spot)
• Check valve in P-line and in LS-line of
steering unit avoids kick back at the
steering wheel
• Steering unit always has the same
temperature as the oil in the entire
system, therefore no risk of sticking
spool/sleeve set in housing even
when starting up under very cold
conditions

Features of Load Sensing Dynamic

steering systems with Sauer-Danfoss
OSPF LS steering units:

OSPF LS Dynamic
• Third generation of load sensing:
full drain load sensing dynamic
• Constant flow through the unit when
not steering, recommended level:
1 - 1,5 l/min [0.26 - 0.40 US gal/min]
• Dynamic flow eliminates hard point
when starting steering
• No kick back in steer wheel because
of check valve in P- and no connec-
tion P-line to LS-line
• Steering unit always has the same
temperature as the oil.
• OSPF is extremely good in controlling
negative steering forces
• Higher max. steering speed, limited
only by the capacity of the pump and
the pressure setting

26 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Choice of steering concept and components

CHOICE OF STEERING The choice of steering concept is determined mainly by vehicle design, performance
CONCEPT AND requirements and required operating functions.
COMPONENTS When a hydrostatic system is chosen, the next step involves deciding whether the
hydraulic steering system is to be:
• Open Center steering system
• Power Beyond steering system
• Closed Center non-Load-Sensing steering system
• Load Sensing steering system

The choice will also depend on system cost requirements, hydraulic system energy
consumption and system complexity.
When a Load Sensing system has been chosen, there are three further possibilities:
• Load Sensing Static steering system
• Load Sensing Dynamic Steering system
• Load Sensing Dynamic steering system based on Sauer-Danfoss OSPF steering units

The choice here will depend on performance requirements and running-in complexity:
• Load Sensing Static steering systems are the simplest Loading Sensing types as
regards the initial setting up of the priority valve spring/orifices combination.
• Load Sensing Dynamic steering systems give, in most cases, better steering perfor-
mance than Static steering systems. See page 26.
• Load Sensing Dynamic steering systems with OSPF steering units give by far the best
steering characteristics. See page 26. Such a system can require highly precise setting
up of the priority valve spring/orifices combination and it is essential to ensure high
“dynamic” flow from the priority valve, min. 1 litre/min [0.26 US gal/min].

When specifying a steering system, there are two steering unit options, viz. “Reaction”
and “Non-reaction”:
• With reaction steering units, any external forces that act on the steered wheels result
in a corresponding movement of the steering wheel, when the driver is not steering
the vehicle
• With non-reaction steering units there is no such corresponding movement of the
steering wheel, when the driver is not steering the vehicle

For vehicles with rear-wheel steering and articulated steering, or for vehicles that require
a steering unit displacement >250 cm3/rev [15.25 in3/rev], Sauer-Danfoss always recom-
mends non-reaction steering units.

Size calculations on steering cylinders, steering units and pumps for steering systems are
given in “General information” in the next section.
If a suitable compromise cannot be achieved between minimum necessary displacement
determined by maximum desired number of steering wheel revolutions from lock to
lock, and maximum permissible displacement for building up the steering pressure in
emergency situations with pump failure, it is possible to choose a steering unit with
variable displacement: type OSPD or OSPQ.

LEGISLATION OF Please pay attention to country specific legislation for hydraulic/electro-hydraulic steer-
STEERING SYSTEMS ing systems in public traffic. The most wellknown of these in Europe are the German TÜV
regulation § 38stVZo and the ISO 5010 standard.

520L0468 27
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General information

TECHNICAL DATA Ambient temperature

min. –30°C [–22°F]
COMMON max. +60°C [140°F]
Permissible temperature
Surface treatment assuming non-activated 120°C [248°F] for 20 minutes
steering unit
min. -30°C [-22°F]
Oil temperature
max. 90°C [194°F]
Recommended min. 30°C [-22°F]
oil temperature max. 60°C [140°F]
min. 10 mm2/s [59 SUS]
Oil viscosity
max. 1000 mm2/s [4629 SUS]
min. 12 mm2/s [66 SUS]
Recommended viscosity
max. 80 mm2/s [370 SUS]
Max. degree of contamination ON/OR 22 / 20 / 17
Filtration
ISO 4406 LS/CN/PB 21 / 19 / 16
Temperature-difference between steering unit
max. 10°C [50°F]
and other hydraulics
Normal steering 0.5-1.5 Nm [4.43 -13.3 lbf·in]
Steering torque, OSPM Manual steering 1] Max. 80 Nm [708 lbf·in]
Momentary load Max. 160 Nm [1416 lbf·in]
Normal steering, OSPF 0.5-1.8 Nm [4.43-15.93 lbf·in]
Normal steering, OSPL 1.5 - 4.0 Nm [13.3 - 35.4 lbf·in]
Normal steering other OSP 0.8 - 3.0 Nm [7.08 - 26.55 lbf·in]
Steering torque, other OSP
Manual steering 1] Max. 120 Nm [1062 lbf·in]
Momentary load Max. 240 Nm [2124 lbf·in]
1) Steering units must not be used for continuous manual steering, max.1% of life cycle

MANUAL STEERING Under normal operating where the steering pump supplies an adequade oil flow at the
PRESSURE required pressure, the maximum torque on the steering wheel will not exceed 5 Nm
[44.2 lbf·in]. If the oil flow from the steering system pump fails or is too small, the steering
unit functions automatically as a manual steering pump.
Manual steering can only be used for a limited control of the vehicle if a sudden drop
of pump pressure or flow occurs.
The table below shows the nominal manual steering pressure (Pm) for all sizes of
Sauer-Danfoss steering units type OSPM at a steering wheel torque of 80 Nm [708 lbf·in].
The values apply only if the suction conditions on the steering unit T port are adequate.

OSPM 32 50 63 80 100
bar 100 80 60 50 40
Pm
[psi] [1450] [1160] [870] [725] [580]

The table below shows the nominal manual steering pressure (Pm) for all types of
Sauer-Danfoss steering units except OSPM at a steering wheel torque of 120 Nm [1062
lbf.in] a value which is considered to be the maximum torque an average size operator
can exert. The values apply only if the suction conditions on the steering unit T port
are adequate.

OSP 50 80 100 125 160 200 315 400 500 630 800 1000
Pm (bar) 90 80 60 50 40 30 20 15 12 10 7 6
[psi] 1305 1160 870 725 580 435 290 217 174 145 101 87

28 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General information

MANUAL STEERING In the German TÜV directives, §38stVZo specifies the maximum permissible steering-
PRESSURE CONTINUE wheel rim force in an emergency steering situation (Please consult the directives for the
ruling values).
If, for example, the permissible steering wheel rim force is Fe = 350N [78.7 lbf ] and the
steering wheel diameter SWd is = 0.381 m [15”], the steering torque Tsw will be =
SWd 0.381
Tsw = Fe • = 350 • = 66.7 Nm [590 lbf·in]
2 2

Accordingly, the obtainable maximum steering pressure will be lower than stated in the
table on page 28.
With, for example, an OSPC 80, the maximum steering pressure Pmr, will be =

Pmr = Pm table x Tsw/Ttable = 80 x 66/120 = 44 bar [638 psi].

CALCULATION OF Symbols: The force on the shaft is 80.000 N (8.000kg)

STEERING SYSTEMS ML (Nm) [lbf.in]: steering torque [17.984 lbf ] King pin off-set is 100 mm.
F (N) [lbf ]: steering force [3.94 in]. Tyre breadth is 200 mm [7.87 in]
ACKERMANN STEERING GS (N) [lbf ]: force on shaft (weight) Friction coefficient between road and
e (mm) [in]: king pin off-set tyres is 0.8. Minimum effective radius arm
B (mm) [in]: tyre breadth for steering cylinders is 0.1 m [3.94 in].
µS: friction coefficient According to Taborek's formula the total
S (cm) [in]: piston stroke): steering torque becomes
r (m) [ft] minimum effective
radius arm for steering 1 B µS
ML = 0.05 • Gs •
cylinders e 200 0.7
1+
B

1 200 0.8
ML = 0.05 • 80.000 • • • Nm
100 200 0.7
1+ 200

ML = 3050 Nm [26994 lbf.in]

Cylinder piston rods must then produce

a steering force of:

ML 3050
F= = N=30.500N[6856lbf]
r 0.1

520L0468 29
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General information

CALCULATION Symbols: A: Differential cylinder

OF STEERING SYSTEMS F (N) [lbf ]: steering force When max. steering pressure P is led
P (bar) [psi]: steering pressure to the largest area, the steering force
CYLINDER D (cm) [in]: internal diameter of cylinder becomes:
d (cm) [in]: piston rod diameter
S (cm) [in]: piston stroke π
V (cm3) [in3]: stroke volume F=P• • D2 • 10
4

At steering to the largest area, the stroke

volume becomes:

π
V= • D2 • S
4
With max. steering pressure P acting
on the smallest area, the steering force
becomes:

π
F=P• • (D2 − d2) • 10
4
At steering to the smallest area, the
stroke volume becomes:

π
When using only one differential cylin- V= • (D2 − d2) • S
der, the number of steering wheel revolu- 4
tions from lock to lock will be different
for each direction of rotation. B: Balanced cylinder:
Use a piston seal in the cylinder to avoid
leakage from one side of the piston to π
the other. F=P• • (D2 − d2) • 10
4

π
V= • (D2 - d2) • S
4

C: Cross-connected cylinders:

π
F=P• • (2D2 − d2) • 10
4

π
V= • (2D2 − d2) • S
4

30 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General information

CALCULATION EXAMPLE Cross-connected cylinders are used. The steering force is 30.500 N [6857 lbf ]
OF STEERING CYLINDER The steering pressure is 90 bar [1305 psi]. Piston stroke is 20 cm [7.90 in].
The relation between the piston rod diameter and internal diameter of the cylinder is
d 1
= for the cylinder chosen.
D 2
π
Inserted in the formula for steering force 30.500 • 10 = 90 • (2 (2d)2 − d2) • 10
4
the result is d = 2,5 cm [1 in] og D = 2 • d = 5,0 cm [2 in].
π
Stroke volume: V = • (2 • 5.02 - 2.52) • 20 = 687 cm3 [41.9 in3]
4

A theoretical calculation of steering cylinders and steering pressure may result in inad-
equate steering forces in many dynamic steering situations in practise.
An empirical rule verifies that adding an approx. 50 bar [725 psi] pressure to the theoreti-
cally required pressure usually always ensures a satisfactory steering performance.
Based on this empirical rule, the required size of cylinder can be calculated on basis of a
steering pressure that is 50 bar [725 psi] lower than the available system pressure.
Therefore, in the example illustrated above, the steering system must be able to work
with a pump pressure of
90 bar [1305 psi]+ 50 bar [725 psi] = 140 bar [2030 psi]

CALCULATION EXAMPLE Symbols:

OF STEERING UNIT V cm3 [in3]: stroke volume
Vv cm3/rev [in3/rev]: steering unit displacement
i (rev): required number of steering wheel revolutions from lock to lock
V
The required steering unit displacement is calculated from Vv =
i
With a stroke volume of 687 cm3 [41.9 in3] and a required number of steering wheel
revolutions from lock to lock of 3 to 4, the steering unit displacement will be between
172 and 229 cm3/rev. [10.56 and 13.97 in3/rev]. A steering unit with a displacement of
200 cm3/rev [12.20 in3/rev] will give 3.4 steering wheel revolutions.

CALCULATION EXAMPLE Symbols:

OF PUMP Vv (cm3/rev) [in3/rev]: steering unit displacement
n (min-1) [rev/min]: required steering wheel speed
Q (l/min) [US gal/min]: oil flow

The oil flow is calculated from

Q = Vv • n • 10-3.

With a displacement of 200 cm3/rev [12.20 in3/rev] and a required steering speed of
100 min-1 [rev/min], the oil flow will be
Q = 200 • 100 • 10-3 = 20 l/min. [5.28 US gal/min]

STEERING WHEEL REVO- Recommended:

LUTIONS AND STEERING Number of steering wheel revolutions from lock to lock: 3 to 5.
SPEED Steering wheel speed: 100 to 150 min-1/min [rev/min]
Steering wheel speed with engine at idle: min. 60 min-1/min. [rev/min]

520L0468 31
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General information

CALCULATION OF Symbols:
LS STEERING SYSTEM Q (l/min) [US gal/min]: required oil flow for the steering system
WITH WORKING QA (l/min) [US gal/min]: required oil flow for the remainder of the hydraulic system
HYDRAULICS Qp (l/min) [US gal/min]: required pump flow

The priority valve ensures priority to the steering system under any situations. In some
cases the steering system can take all the oil flow from the pump.
When it is designed that the steering system and the working hydraulics do not require
oil simultaneously, the necessary oil flow from the pump QP will equal the higher of the
two oil flows (QA or Q).

When working hydraulics and steering system must have oil at the same time, the neces-
sary oil flow from the pump QP will equal the sum of the two oil flows (QA + Q).

The necessary oil flow to the steering unit is 20 l/min[5.28 US gal/min]. Required for the
working hydraulics 40 l/min [10.56 US gal/min].
If it is acceptable that the working hydraulics drop in speed during steering then
the necessary oil flow from the pump will be: QP = QA = 40 l/min [10.56 US gal/min].

CALCULATION OF Symbols
STEERING SYSTEM WITH V (cm3) [in3]: stroke volume
FLOW-AMPLIFIER i (min-1) [rev]: required number of steering wheel revolutions from lock to lock
OSQA/OSQB Vv (cm3/rev) [in3/rev]: steering unit displacement
f: amplification factor of Flow-amplifier
Steering unit displacement and amplification factor of the flow-amplifier are calculated
from:
V
Vv • f =
i

Should you wish to size a steering system for an articulated vehicle, Sauer-Danfoss will
CALCULATION OF carry out computer calculations for you.
STEERING SYSTEM FOR Please take a copy of the questionnaire overleaf, complete it, and send it to the
ARTICULATED VEHICLE Sauer-Danfoss Sales organization.

32 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General Information

CALCULATION OF Manufacturer: Completed by: Date:

STEERING SYSTEMS Vehicle: Type: Project:
Units used: fill in with X: metric  US 
ARTICULATED VEHICLE Weight of fully loaded vehicle: G max.= kg [lbf ]
Max. speed of vehicle: km/h [mph]
Required number of steering wheel revolutions: i = min-1 [rev]
Steering system pump: Type:
Max. steering pressure: bar [psi]
Displacement: cm3 [in3]
Minimum speed: min-1 [rev/min]
Maximum speed: min-1 [rev/min]
Loader
Bucket width: W= mm [in]
Other machines
Number of front axles:
Number of rear axles:

COMPLETE FORM
A1 = mm [in] Notes:

A2 = mm [in]

B1 = mm [in]

B2 = mm [in]

D= mm [in]

d= mm [in]

± α max. =

E=

2 cylinders E = 1 1 cylinder, left E = 2 1 cylinder, right E = 3

520L0468 33
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General Information

CALCULATION OF Symbols:
STEERING SYSTEMS Q (l/min) [US gal/min]: oil flow required for steering components
QA (l/min) [US gal/min]: oil flow required for working hydraulics
PUMP FOR FLOW- Qp (l/min) [US gal/min]: oil flow required from pump
AMPLIFIERS OSQA/OSQB Vv (cm3) [in3]: steering unit displacement
f: amplification factor of flow-amplifier
n (min-1) [rev/min]: required steering speed

The integral priority valve in the flow-amplifier ensures priority to the steering system.
When it is designed that the steering system and the working hydraulics do not operate
simultaneously, the oil flow required from the pump Qp will equal the higher of the two
oil flows (QA or Q).
Q = VV • f • n • 10-3

When working hydraulics and steering system must have oil at the same time, the oil flow
required from the pump QP will equal the total of the two oil flows (QA + Q).

OIL TYPES Mineral oils

When using mineral based hydraulic oil, we recommend the addition of a sufficient
MINERAL OILS, NON- quantity of antiwear additive of a type that is active under boundary lubrication condi-
FLAMMABLE OR BIODE- tions at low temperatures.
GRADABLE HYDRAULIC Mineral oils are normally suitable if they belong to one of the three following groups:
FLUIDS, SEALING MATERI- • HM oil, possibly HV (ISO 6743/4, CETOP RP 91H) or H-LP oil (DIN 51524)
ALS, AND OIL TEMPERA- • Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF A)
TURE • SE- and CD motor oil (American Petroleum Institute (API))
The large content of additives in motor oils may produce sediment that can block valves
and filters. If there is doubt about the suitability of an oil, please contact Sauer-Danfoss
Sales Organisation.

Non-flammable or biodegradable hydraulic fluids

To an increasing extent Sauer-Danfoss steering components are being used in systems
with non-flammable hydraulic fluids.
These fluids normally belong to one of the following groups according to ISO 12922:
Oil in water emulsion: HFA
Water in oil emulsion: HFB
Water/polymer solution: HFC
Waterfree synthetic fluids: HFD-U

Please contact the sales organization for Sauer-Danfoss Sales Organisation regarding the
use of non-flammable or biodegradable fluids.

Sealing materials
The seals in steering components are of nitrile rubber NBR (Buna N) and teflon PTFE.
If synthetic fluid is to be used in the steering system, please contact the Sauer-Danfoss
Sales Organization regarding sealing material.

Oil temperature
Oil life will be drastically reduced because of oxidizing if the operating temperature
exceeds 60 °C [140°F] for long periods.
A rule of thumb is that oil life is halved for each 8 °C [46.4°F] in excess of 80 °C [176°F] .
Impurities in the oil, e.g. particles or water, will further reduce its life.

34 520L0468
 General, Steering components
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General Information

PARTICLE CONTENT, Particle content, degree of contamination

DEGREE OF CONTAMINA- The oil must be filtered to prevent the particle content from exceeding an acceptable
TION AND FILTERING level, corresponding to an acceptable degree of contamination. The maximum ISO
degree of contamination (see ISO 4406 or CETOP RP 70) is

• for load sensing, closed center steering components and power beyond steering units:
22/19/16
• for open center steering components: 23/20/17

Filtering
How fine the filtering must be and where the filters are to be placed is always a compro-
mise.
In systems with a good air filter and effective dust sealing, and which operate in clean
surroundings, the degree of contamination can normally be kept within the limits laid
down by using a return filter of 25 µm nominal (40-50 µm absolute) or finer.
Conversely, systems operating with a poor air filter and inadequate dust sealing - in dusty
surroundings - will often require more than one filter of 10 µm absolute. The filters can
be pressure or return filters.

INSTALLATION • All hydraulic components should be placed so that they are easily accessible.
• All hydraulic components should be installed outside the cabin of the vehicle.
• There should be a manometer connection in the pump line.
• Install the cylinders with the ports facing upwards so that air pockets are avoided.
• Mounting surfaces should be flat in order to ensure effective contact.
• Hydraulic pilot lines must be fitted in such a way that air pockets are avoided.
• Install the hydraulic components as stated in their individual installation instructions.
• Installation instructions are enclosed or can be ordered from Sauer-Danfoss Sales
Organisation.
• The hydraulic components must not be forced or twisted into alignment by the fixing
screws.
• Packing yarn, teflon, and other unsuitable sealing material must not be used on port
adaptors. Use bonded seals, O-rings, steel washers, and similar materials.
• Do not remove the plastic plugs until pipes and hoses are to be fitted.
• Never tighten the screwed connections with a torque higher than the max. tightening
torques stated in the instructions.
• The oil must have a contamination level better than the ISO 4406 code stated in the
technical data page 28.
• Always refill the system through a filter.

520L0468 35
 General, Steering components
Technical information
General Information

TIGHTENING TORQUES Connections Max. tightening torque Nm [lbf.in]

With cutting edge With copper washer With alum. washer O-ring
G 1⁄4 35 [309] 35 [309] 35 [309] -
G 3⁄8 70 [619] 45 [398] 50 [442] -
G 1⁄2 100 [885] 55 [486] 80 [708] -
G 3⁄4 180 [1593] 90 [796] 130 [1150] -
7⁄16-20 UNF - - - 20 [177]
3⁄4-16 UNF - - - 60 [531]
7⁄8-14 UNF - - - 90 [796]
1 1⁄16-12 UN - - - 120 [1062]
M12 • 1.5 30 [265] 20 [177] 30 [265] 25 [221]
M18 • 1,5 80 [708] 55 [486] 70 [619] 50 [442]
M22 • 1.5 100 [885] 65 [575] 80 [708] 60 [531]
9/16 - 18 UNF, ORFS - - - 25 [221]
11/16 - 16 UN, ORFS - - - 27 [239]
If in doubt about the choice of connection and sealing principle, please contact the Sauer-Danfoss Sales
Organisation

STARTING UP AND • Start the prime mover and where possible allow it to run at the lowest speed.
RUNNING IN • Check the direction of pump shaft rotation.
• Any bleed screws must be left open until oil emerges without foam.
• In load sensing systems ensure that all signal lines are full of oil.
• Turn the steering wheel left and right until the steering components are completely
bled.
• Signs of air in the hydraulic system
- foam in the tank
- jerky operation of actuator motor or cylinder
- noise
• Refill again, if necessary.
• The system should not be loaded until completely bled.
• The hydraulic system is checked for tightness and satisfactory function.
• Change the oil filter, if necessary.

MAINTENANCE • Careful maintenance is essential to the reliability and life of the hydraulic system.
• Oil, oil filters, and air filters must be changed in accordance with the supplier’s
instructions.
• The condition of the oil must be checked at suitable intervals.
• System tightness and oil level must be checked frequently.

36 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

EXAMPLES OF STEERING
SYSTEMS

OSPC ON
OSPC OR

OSPC ON OSPC OR
steering units contain one or more of the steering units contain one or more of the
following possible valve functions: following possible valve functions:
- pressure relief valve - pressure relief valve
- shock valves - suction valves
- suction valves - check valve
- check valve - shock valves if needed

520L0468 37
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

EXAMPLES OF STEERING OSPC LS + OLSA OSPF + OLS

SYSTEMS Steering unit with flange mounted Load sensing steering system with
priority valve OLSA and OTPB steering variable displacement pump.
column with sensor.

When the driver turns the steering wheel, The pump and the working hydraulics
the steering wheel sensor sends a signal circuit must be protected by a separate
to the relay box activating the electric pressure relief valve.
motor that drives the hydraulic system
pump. The system must also include a
signal source in the working hydraulics.
A PVRES control lever for example.
The system is therefore energy-optimised,
so that the hydraulic pump runs only
when the hydraulic functions are active.

38 520L0468
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Examples of steering systems

EXAMPLES OF STEERING OSPD LS OSPQ LS

SYSTEMS Steering unit with two rotary meters Steering unit with amplification valve

OSPD LS
OSPQ LS

With OSPD or OSPQ even heavy vehicles can in many cases fulfil legislations and be
steered without the emergency steering pump. An OSPD makes it possible to select a
ratio between normal steering displacement and emergency steering displacement up
to a factor of 5.

An OSPQ allows the selection of an amplification factor of up to 2.

The pump and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by a separate pressure
relief valve.

520L0468 39
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

OSPBX LS AND OSQA The pilot pressure relief valve in OSQA only protects the steering circuit. The pump and
the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by a separate pressure relief valve.

2 X OSPBX LS AND OSQB The steering components are connected by three shuttle valves. The pilot pressure relief
valve in OSQB only protects the steering circuit.
The pump and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by a separate pressure
relief valve.
Steering systems with flow-amplifiers make it possible to connect working hydraulics to
the EF connection. The built-in priority valve ensures first priority to the steering circuit.
When the steering wheel is turned, the priority valve ensures that the necessary oil flow is
led to the steering circuit. The rest is available for the working hydraulics.

40 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

OSPBX LS AND OSQB The pump for emergency steering operates when the pressure in the HP line is below
SHOWN WITH ELECTRI- the stand-by level. The pump for emergency steering supplies oil directly to the P line of
CALLY DRIVEN PUMP the steering unit. So during emergency steering there is no amplification. The pressure
FOR EMERGENCY in the P line must be limited to max. 100 bar when the pump for emergency steering is
STEERING. activated. The pilot pressure relief valve in OSQB only protects the steering circuit.
NO AMPLIFICATION The pumps and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by separate pressure
DURING EMERGENCY relief valves.
STEERING

OSPBX LS AND OSQA The pump for emergency steering is operated when the pressure in the HP line is below
SHOWN WITH ELECTRI- the stand-by level. The pump for emergency steering supplies the HP line with oil.
CALLY DRIVEN PUMP FOR So amplification is maintained during emergency steering. The pilot pressure relief valve
EMERGENCY STEERING. in OSQA only protects the steering circuit.
AMPLIFICATION DURING The pumps and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by separate pressure
EMERGENCY STEERING relief valves.

520L0468 41
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

OSPBX LS, OLS 160 AND An OLS 160 directs the oil flow from the emergency steering pump to the HP line if the
OSQA SHOWN WITH main pump does not supply any oil. The pilot pressure relief valve in OSQA only protects
SEPARATE MOTOR the steering circuit. The pumps and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by
DRIVEN PUMP separate pressure relief valves.

OSPBCX LS, AND OSQB/ When under normal steering conditions the stand-by pressure in the main circuit (mini-
OLSQ WITH INTEGRATED mum 7 bar [102 psi]priority valve spring in OSQ) overrules the spring pressure in OLSQ (4
PRIORITY VALVE FOR bar [ 58 psi] spring), OLSQ’s priority valve will pass oil from the emergency steering pump
EMERGENCY CIRCUIT across OLSQ’s P-connection to the flow amplifier’s HT tank connection.
If the oil supply from the main pump (HP) should fail, the stand-by pressure of OSQ’s
priority valve in the main pump circuit disappears and relocates the spool in OLSQ to
enable the oil from the emergency steering pump to enter the pump circuit (P) in the
OSQ.
The pilot pressure relief valve in OSPCX LS only protects the steering circuit. The pumps
and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by separate pressure relief valves.

42 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

EHPS TYPE 1 STEERING The vehicle can be steered with either the PVRES joystick or with the OSPCX pilot steer-
VALVE WITH PVG 32, ing unit. The signal from the steering unit has priority on simultaneous activation of
OSPCX PILOT STEERING steering wheel and joystick.
UNIT AND PVRES
JOYSTICK.

520L0468 43
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Examples of steering systems

EHPS TYPE 2 STEERING The vehicle can be steered either:

VALVE WITH CONTROL - automatically with a signal from an external signal source, e.g. range sensor or a GPS
MODULE PVED, OSPCX signal, or
PILOT STEERING UNIT - manually with a joystick, or with an OSPCX pilot steering unit.
AND JOYSTICK. The signal from the steering unit has priority:
When the steering wheel is activated, the signal from the automatic steering valve
discontinues and with simultaneous activation of steering wheel and joystick, the turn-
ing direction of the steered road wheels will correspond to the direction of rotation of
the steering wheel.
The signal from the steering wheel sensor gives:
- variable steering wheel ratio
Zero-slip function: the steering wheel position corresponds to the position of the
steering cylinder.
The pump and the working hydraulics circuit must be protected by a separate pres-
sure relief valve.

44 520L0468
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Technical information
Examples of steering systems

LOAD SENSING The pump oil flow is fed in from a priority valve OLS 120 or OLS 160, which ensures
STEERING SYSTEM AND priority to steering.
LOAD SENSING WORK- The built-in pilot pressure relief valve in OSPC LS protects the steering circuit.
ING HYDRAULICS WITH The built-in pilot pressure relief valve in Sauer-Danfoss proportional valve PVG 32 pro-
COMMON OIL SUPPLY tects the working hydraulics circuit.
FROM A FIXED DIS-
PLACEMENT PUMP The first working hydraulics section is shown with a Sauer-Danfoss hydraulic motor .
Shock and suction valves are built into the proportional valve.
The second working hydraulics section is shown with a Sauer-Danfoss hydraulic motor.
The third working hydraulics section is shown with LS pressure relief valves built into
the proportional valve. Hereby maximum working pressure can be set separately for port
A and port B.
Please contact the Sauer-Danfoss Sales Organization regarding assembly possibilities for
your application.

520L0468 45
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Notes

NOTES

46 520L0468
 General, Steering components
Technical information
Notes

NOTES

520L0468 47
OUR PRODUCTS Sauer-Danfoss Hydraulic Power Systems
– Market Leaders Worldwide
Hydrostatic transmissions
Sauer-Danfoss is a comprehensive supplier providing complete
Hydraulic power steering systems to the global mobile market.
Electro-hydraulic power steering
Sauer-Danfoss serves markets such as agriculture, construction, road
Electric power steering building, material handling, municipal, forestry, turf care, and many
others.
Closed and open circuit axial piston
pumps and motors We offer our customers optimum solutions for their needs and
develop new products and systems in close cooperation and
Gear pumps and motors
partnership with them.
Bent axis motors
Sauer-Danfoss specializes in integrating a full range of system
Orbital motors components to provide vehicle designers with the most advanced
total system design.
Transit mixer drives

Planetary compact gears Sauer-Danfoss provides comprehensive worldwide service for its
products through an extensive network of Authorized Service
Proportional valves Centers strategically located in all parts of the world.

Directional spool valves

Cartridge valves

Hydraulic integrated circuits

Hydrostatic transaxles

Integrated systems

Fan drive systems

Sauer-Danfoss [US] Company
Electrohydraulic controls 2800 East 13th Street
Ames, IA 50010, USA
Digital electronics and software Phone: +1 515 239-6000, Fax: +1 515 239-6618
Electric motors and inverters
Sauer-Danfoss [Neumünster] GmbH & Co. OHG
Sensors Postfach 2460, D-24531 Neumünster
Krokamp 35, D-24539 Neumünster, Germany
Phone: +49 4321 871-0, Fax: +49 4321 871-122

Sauer-Danfoss [Nordborg] A/S

DK-6430 Nordborg, Denmark
Phone: +45 7488 4444, Fax: +45 7488 4400

DKMH.PK.200.A2.02 520L0468 Rev.A - 10/2002 www.sauer-danfoss.com