jcblhandtoolsWhether you’re performing a DIY or professional task, precision is everything when it comes to tightening the nuts and bolts. While assembling a machine or maintaining your vehicle, over and under-tightening can cause you inconvenience. Over-tightening can lead to the snapping of the bolt, meanwhile under-tightening increases safety risks.
For perfection and precision, the torque wrench is the right tool for you. It is a perfect solution for tightening nuts and bolts without damaging them. In this blog, we will discuss how to use a torque wrench correctly for your safety-
What is a torque wrench?
If you love DIY tasks of assembling machinery or maintaining your bike yourself, a torque wrench is a perfect tool for you. A torque wrench is a hand tool used for applying a precise amount of torque to nuts or bolts. It stops when it reaches the specified torque setting, preventing the risk of over and under-tightening. It is popularly used by engineers, mechanics, engineers, agriculturists, plumbers, etc. Unlike regular wrenches, it gives you control over the force applied to the nut or bolt. this further prevents you from damaging the components. It works by applying force to the mechanical component that increases the length of the wrench. Once the screw or nut is properly tightened or reaches the desired torque value, it indicates a beep, click, or visual indicator.
Types of torque wrenches
Torque wrenches have applications in different industries, thus they vary from each other in terms of size, capacity, and design. The following are a few types of torque wrenches-
Click Torque Wrench
A click torque wrench is a type of torque wrench that makes a click sound once it reaches the desired torque setting. It has an internal spring mechanism in which spring compresses when you adjust the torque setting. It is the most common type of torque wrench that is effective in automotive repairs.
Beam Torque Wrench
The beam torque has a scaler and pointer. This type of wrench allows one to tighten the nuts and bolts to the precise tightness specification given by the automakers and manufacturers. It is feasible for the tasks where exact torque guidelines are needed to be followed. Although these are not as precise as other torque wrenches, it is a reliable and inexpensive option.
Dial Torque Wrench
Dial torque wrenches are one of high-quality measuring tools. They have a dial pointer that indicates the torque value and memorizes it. such types of wrenches use advanced technology and, thus are highly expensive. It is highly accurate and most commonly used for more precise work by professionals.
Digital Torque Wrench
This type of torque wrench comes with an in-built digital sensor. They also have a memory system to store the torque readings. Some of the digital torque wrenches can be controlled with other technical devices. They are suitable for high-end machinery assembly and automotive manufacturing.
When to use a torque wrench?
You can use a torque wrench when you need to fasten nuts and bolts to a specific torque. You can use it for bike maintenance, automotive work, and machinery assembly. It is a perfect hand tool for you when you need to –
- Tight the fastener precisely.
- Avoid over and under-tightening.
- Provide extra leverage.
A step-by-step guide: How to use a torque wrench
To use the torque wrench correctly like a professional, follow the given steps-
Step 1: Know your torque specifications
To use the torque accurately, it is important to know the torque requirement for the bolt you want to tighten. Over-tightening can cause damage to the faster and under-tightening can increase the risk of the bolt coming loose. Thus, it is crucial to refer to the manufacturer’s manual to know the correct torque specification for the nut or bolt you’re working with.
Step 2: Set the desired torque
After knowing the torque specification, set the desired torque in the wrench. Usually, a scale is given in the torque wrenches to adjust the setting. If you have a click-type wrench then you can twist the handle to set up the correct torque value.
“Double-checking the torque setting is crucial to ensure it matches with the specification.”
Step 3: Position the Torque Wrench
The next step is to place the toque wrench over the fastener. The wrench should be perpendicular to the bolt or nut. Improper angle can lead to inaccurate torque reading, as well as slippage. the wrench should be gripped firmly and steadily.
Step 4: Tighten the bolt
After properly handling the torque wrench, start to apply force on the fastener. If you’re using digital or dial wrenches, keep your eyes on the gauge to monitor the torque and stop when it reaches the desired torque. But, if you are using a click-type wrench then tighten the bolt slowly until you hear the click sound.
“To prevent over-tightening, stop once you reach the desired torque.”
Step 5: Inspect the bolt
Once all the fasteners are tighter, inspect them again to ensure they are properly tightened. This simple step is crucial for the safety and security of your work.
By following the aforementioned steps, you can use the torque wrench accurately and finish your job with perfection.
Mistakes to avoid when using a torque wrench
While using a torque wrench, there are a few common mistakes that one can make-
- Make sure to hold it perpendicular to the fastener.
- Stop tightening after the indication that it has reached the desired torque.
- Do not use it instead of regular wrenches.
- Use them only for precision tightening.
- Reset your torque wrench to zero after every use.
How to maintain a torque wrench?
The torque wrenches are quite expensive. Thus, it is crucial to maintain them for their longevity. Here are a few ways, you can adopt to maintain a torque wrench-
- Always handle them with care.
- Regularly clean and lubricant the ratchet.
- Time-to-time calibration is crucial to ensure they remain precise.
- Get them calibrated by certified service.
- Reset them after use to increase their lifespan.
- Store them in a dry and clean place.
Conclusion
Whether you want to fix your bike or maintain or assemble a piece of machinery, a torque wrench is what you need. All you need to know is the right technique to use it. By learning the accurate technique, you will save time and effort, and secure the fasteners more precisely. Invest your money and time in purchasing and mastering the tool and it will reward you will precision and reliability for years.
Get yourself a high-quality torque wrench that will offer you accuracy and longevity at JCBL Handtools. We are manufacturers and suppliers of torque wrenches and other hand tools for your needs. We deliver excellence with products that meet the quality standard of International market. Visit us to check out the complete range of hand tools.
FAQ
How often I should calibrate my torque wrench?
The recommended time for calibrating the torque wrench is once a year or after 5,000 uses. If you use it often then keeping a check on the frequency of use is essential to calibrate it on time, otherwise you can calibrate it once a year.
Is it okay to use a torque wrench on any type of bolt?
Yes, you can use a torque wrench on any type of bolt. However, if the torque wrench is for specific requirements then always check the manual for the correct specification.
