Rotary Unions (Hydraulic Swivels)
A rotary union, also called a rotary joint or swivel joint – moves hydraulic fluid from a stationary line into a rotating component without leaks or line twist. UEA designs and builds single- and multi-port rotary unions for industrial equipment, with port options including SAE and four-bolt flange patterns. We refine our rotary union and hydraulic swivel designs using state-of-the-art software technology and thorough in-house testing. Each swivel we produce is custom-built to meet your specific needs, ensuring it fits the unique requirements of your application.
Rotary Union Overview and Design Capabilities
- Standard and custom designed rotary unions for your specific application.
- Engineered to withstand high-pressure spikes and operate reliably in unforgiving environments.
- Accommodating a wide range of diameters and flow requirements.
- ORFS, Code 61 & Code 62 Four Bolt Flange.
- SAE ORB, BSPP and NPT.
- Painting, nickel plating and heat treatment.
- Temperature range: -20°F to 250°F (-29°C to 121°C).
- In-house endurance test stand for accelerated life testing.
- Fabricated by state-of-the-art CNC machines.
Custom Swivels for Fluid & Gas Handling
Our swivels can be custom designed to handle a wide range of media, producing reliable performance across applications.
- Hydraulic Oil
- Coolant
- Water
- Air
- Gasses like Argon and Nitrogen
- Fuel
- Refrigerants
- Vacuum
Rotary Unions for Hydraulic Applications - Choose Your Required Ports
8-Port Rotary Union
Operating Pressure (psi)
5000-6000
Port Type
Combination of Four-Bolt Flange & SAE ORB Ports
9-Port Rotary Union
Operating Pressure (psi)
3500-5500
Port Type
Combination of Four-Bolt Flange & SAE ORB Ports
11-Port Rotary Union
Operating Pressure (psi)
5800-6000
Port Type
Combination of Four-Bolt Flange & SAE ORB Ports
Rotary Union + Slip Ring - Choose the Optimal Integration
Innovative Rotary Union Solutions
with Integrated Slip Rings
At United Equipment Accessories (UEA), we specialize in integrating slip rings into our rotary unions, providing a seamless solution for the simultaneous transfer of power and data. By incorporating integrated slip rings, our rotary unions ensure optimized space utilization and enhanced efficiency, making them an ideal choice for complex industrial setups. This integration not only enhances the functionality of your equipment but also boosts its overall performance.
- Integrated Slip Rings: UEA’s rotary unions can be equipped with integrated slip rings, facilitating the concurrent transfer of power and data.
- Optimized Design: Our adaptable designs ensure easy incorporation into existing equipment, optimizing space and boosting efficiency in industrial applications.
- Enhanced Efficiency: The combined integration of rotary unions and slip rings enhances operational efficiency and maximizes the utilization of available space.
Integrated Rotary Union & Slip Ring
Combining a slip ring with a rotary union, these fully integrated units enable simultaneous transmission of electrical signals and fluid media. They are perfect for streamlined operations in complex machinery. The slip ring sits within the steel housing of the rotary union and is sealed with a steel top plate.
- Compact integrated design
- Fewer parts with secure sealing
- Very rugged enclosure
Semi-Integrated Rotary Union & Slip Ring
These units offer the flexibility of separate slip rings and rotary unions with partial integration. They are suitable for systems where close proximity is necessary but complete integration is not feasible, providing versatile performance with simplified maintenance. The base casting of the slip ring sits directly on top or bottom of the rotary union.
- Reduced height with flexible integration
- Maintenance accessibility
- No mounting tube
Separate Rotary Union & Slip Ring
For systems requiring distinct slip rings and rotary unions, these separate units allow for customized placement. Ideal for complex setups where modular assembly and easy access to individual components is needed. The slip ring and rotary union, while serving distinct functions, are independent components within a system.
- Modular assembly and easily separated
- Suitable for complex setups
- Reduced heat transfer between units
- Slip ring can be designed to sit either upright or inverted
The FAQ’s
Commonly Asked Questions about our Rotary Unions
A rotary union is a precision-engineered swivel that transfers hydraulic fluid, from a stationary source into a rotating machine component without leaks or line twist. We offer single and multi-port designs, threaded or four-bolt flange, matched to your pressure and speed requirements. Seal stacks, bearings and materials are selected to suit contamination risk and service interval needs.
The terms are often used interchangeably in industry. Some vendors use “swivel” more in hydraulic contexts and “rotary union/joint” for broader media.
UEA builds units across a wide range, including models in the 3,000–6,000 psi class and -20°F to 250°F temperature ranges, depending on design.
Yes. UEA offers integrated, semi-integrated, and separate configurations for fluid + power/data in compact envelopes.
At UEA, we view every question about rotary unions as a chance to innovate. We are dedicated to seamless collaboration. Reach out to us with your inquiries, and let’s work together!