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Hilliard Pneumatic Start Assembly

Hilliard Positive Displacement Air Starter

Delivering High Starting Torque Through Pressurized Gas Power

Hilliard Pneumatic Start Assemblies are designed for industrial gas turbine and reciprocating engine applications requiring reliable startup performance. Operating on pressurized gas, these assemblies provide high starting torque and immediate torque delivery from startup, making them well suited for demanding engine starting applications.

Utilizing a positive displacement helical rotor design, Hilliard Pneumatic Start Assemblies deliver high torque output while supporting a wide operating range across turbine and engine platforms. Standard and custom interfaces are available to accommodate varying installation requirements.

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Hilliard Pneumatic Start Assembly Key Features:

Operates on Pressurized Gas

Designed to operate using virtually any pressurized gas source from 0–220 psig.

High Break-Away Torque Capability

Delivers break-away torque up to 3,700 ft lb for demanding startup requirements.

High-Speed Performance

Capable of output speeds up to 12,000 RPM.

High-Speed Operation

Built for high-speed starting applications where rapid engine acceleration is required.

Positive Displacement Helical Rotor Design

Utilizes a helical rotor configuration to generate torque throughout the startup sequence.

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HOW IT WORKS

Converting Pressurized Gas into Immediate Starting Torque

Pneumatic starting systems use the energy stored in pressurized gas to create rotational force during engine startup. Unlike some starting methods that require rotational speed to build torque, positive displacement designs are capable of delivering rated torque from zero RPM.

The helical rotor design converts gas pressure into rotational motion, allowing torque to be transferred through the starter assembly and into the engine. This provides strong break-away torque characteristics and supports startup performance across a wide range of operating conditions.

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Rated Torque at 0 RPM

Delivers starting torque immediately upon engagement.

High Break-Away Torque Capability

Provides the force required to overcome initial engine resistance.

Pressurized Gas Operation

Utilizes available gas pressure to generate rotational motion.

Controlled Starter Engagement

Roller-ramp overrunning clutch pre-engages the starter to the turbine before torque transfer begins.

Hilliard Pneumatic Start Assemblies utilize a positive displacement helical rotor design to convert pressurized gas into rotational force. A roller-ramp overrunning clutch pre-engages the starter to the turbine, allowing torque to be delivered efficiently during startup while supporting proper disengagement once the turbine reaches operating speed.

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Industries

Pneumatic Start Assemblies Supporting Critical Engine Applications

Hilliard Pneumatic Start Assemblies are used in applications where dependable startup performance is required for industrial gas turbines and reciprocating engines. These systems support critical equipment operating across power generation, gas transmission, marine propulsion, and oil and gas applications.

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