Applications for Zero-Max Motion Control Devices

Success Story: Overhung Load Adaptor on An Agricultural Seeder

Today’s agricultural air seeders and fertilizer applicators are engineered for high-rate application, which requires precision, speed, and accuracy. Zero-Max Overhung Load Adapters handle high speeds and provide impeller support for optimal operation of the hydraulic motor and the system’s blower chamber, resulting in precise, consistent seeding and fertilizing application.

Improving Precision in Agriculture Seeder and Fertilizer Equipment

The blower fans used in high-rate agriculture equipment must operate at a regulated speed according to the amount of seed or fertilizer being applied. With a speed range up to 4500 rpm, Overhung Load Adaptors (OHLA) help increase the lifespan of the hydraulic motor while making sure it delivers smooth rotation to the impeller, so the blower consistently delivers the required airflow. With various seeds and fertilizers being used over a wide range of application rates, the OHLA ensures the system performs at the correct chosen rate.

Another benefit of using Overhung Load Adaptors in air seeding and fertilizing applications is the ability to support the impeller load, which helps extend the lifetime of hydraulic motor bearings and seals. The mounting features simplify the construction and assembly of the blower mechanism while saving space by eliminating the need for couplings and custom support devices to make the connection. Overhung Load Adaptors also provide a contamination barrier by separating the hydraulic motor from the blower chamber. This barrier provides additional seal protection and keeps hydraulic fluid away from the blower chamber.

Select fertilizer applicator models incorporate modified Zero-Max OHLAs, including special shaft features, bearing selection, pre-greasing, and mounting adaptor plates. These modifications allow for use in this demanding application and can increase the load capacity, bearing life, and smooth system performance. Zero-Max engineering works with OEMs to ensure the ideal OHLA is selected.

Offering Standard and Custom Designs with SAE and Non-SAE Mounts

Overhung Load Adaptors are designed for face or foot mounting and come in over 50 standard models. Standard options include SAE A, B, C, D, E, and F mounts with 2 or 4 bolt mounting flanges. Non-SAE mount versions are also available. OHLAs are manufactured and assembled to ISO 9001:2015 standards, with shafts precision machined from high quality 130,000 PSI stress-proof steel.

Zero-Max Overhung Load Adaptors are also offered with several shaft variations including splined, threaded, tapered, and extended output shafts. Additional OHLA options include special input bores, housing modifications, materials, platings, and special mounting features.  All custom Overhung Load Adaptor designs include a detailed CAD approval drawing submitted before manufacture.

Designed for More than Agriculture Air Seeding and Fertilizing Applications

Agriculture seeder and fertilizing applications are just one example of difficult and hostile operating environmental conditions. Zero-Max Overhung Load Adaptors are widely used not only in agricultural machinery, but workboats, recycling systems, forestry mulchers and chippers, fracking rigs, road paving equipment, and other applications requiring radial and/or axial load support and seal protection in hydraulic systems.

Zero-Max is a premier supplier of standard and custom Overhung Load Adaptors. Our engineers work with you to find the best solution for your equipment and application, whether it’s an off-the-shelf product or a custom component designed to your unique specifications. Call or send us a message to discuss using Zero-Max Overhung Load Adaptors in your equipment or machinery design.