It is well known that pneumatic actuators convert fluid power into mechanical power with a low efficiency. The pneumatic rotary actuators are used in not only marine winches. but also hoists, agitators, and excavators. The efficiency of pneumatic rotary actuators depends on several factors, such as type of actuator. speed, supply pressure. size and geometry of the actuator. This paper presents an analytical and experimental study of the performance of pneumatic rotary actuators. We investigate all the major aspects of the air flow through a pneumatic rotary actuator and points out the main causes of the low efficiency of the actuator. Therefore the design parameters which can lead to optimum performance are obtained.