OMT (ZMT) or OMV (ZMV): How to Choose the Right Orbital Hydraulic Motor
Jul 25, 2026| When selecting an orbital hydraulic motor, the OMT (ZMT) and OMV (ZMV) series are two of the most commonly used options for medium- and large-displacement applications. Because they share similar mounting configurations, many customers ask the same question:
What is the difference between OMT and OMV, and when should I choose an OMV motor?
In fact, these two series are not direct replacements for each other. They are designed to meet different operating requirements. The following comparison highlights their main differences.
Displacement Range
The OMV series can be regarded as an extension of the OMT series for larger displacement applications.
Our product range includes:
ZMT (OMT): 195–985 cc/rev
ZMV (OMV): 310–1600 cc/rev
In today's market, many manufacturers offer OMV motors with a maximum displacement of around 1000 cc/rev. Our ZMV series is available up to 1600 cc/rev, providing a solution for applications requiring extremely large displacement.
These high-displacement motors are commonly used in mining equipment and other heavy-duty machinery where high torque at low speed is required.
Compared with the OMT series, the OMV series is designed to accommodate higher hydraulic flow.
For large hydraulic systems and heavy-duty equipment operating under high flow conditions, the OMV series is generally a more suitable choice, delivering stable performance while maintaining high output torque.
Different Output Characteristics
Although both series are low-speed, high-torque orbital hydraulic motors, their performance characteristics differ because of their displacement ranges.
In general:
OMT (ZMT) is capable of achieving relatively higher output speeds.
OMV (ZMV) operates at lower speeds but provides higher output torque, making it better suited for demanding low-speed applications.
For this reason, OMV motors are widely used in mining machinery, heavy conveying equipment, large winches, and other applications requiring continuous high-torque output.
Some users find that their equipment operates normally but lacks sufficient torque under heavy load.
If the hydraulic system allows it and additional output torque is required, selecting a larger-displacement OMV motor may be an effective solution.
Whether an OMT motor can be replaced by an OMV depends on several factors, including system flow, operating pressure, mounting dimensions, output shaft configuration, and the overall application requirements.
Most of our ZMT (OMT) and ZMV (OMV) motors share similar mounting interfaces. If dimensional differences exist for a particular model, our engineering team can evaluate the application and recommend an appropriate solution.
Higher Capacity for Radial Loads
Compared with the OMT series, the OMV series features a larger overall structure with correspondingly stronger bearing support. As a result, it is generally better suited for applications involving higher radial loads.
This is particularly important for equipment using chain drives, sprockets, gears, or belt drives, where the output shaft is continuously subjected to radial force.
The permissible radial load always depends on the specific motor model. For final selection, the values provided in the technical data sheet and the permissible shaft load specifications should be used.
Which Series Should You Choose?
If your application requires relatively higher operating speed and the displacement falls within the OMT range, the ZMT (OMT) series is typically the more practical and economical choice.
If your equipment requires larger displacement, higher output torque, or operates continuously under heavy-duty, low-speed conditions-such as mining machinery or large construction equipment-the ZMV (OMV) series is generally the better option.
The final selection should always be based on the required displacement, operating pressure, hydraulic flow, output speed, mounting dimensions, and actual working conditions.
If you are unsure which model is right for your application, our engineering team will be pleased to assist with motor selection and provide recommendations based on your system requirements.