Reading a torque wrench is actually quite simple, but it is important to understand the setup and operation of the tool before you use it. The first step is to determine the unit of measure – whether Nm, in-lb, or ft-lb – before you set the tool.
Make sure the setting is turned all the way below the desired torque value. On most torque wrenches, you’ll then set the desired torque value via the scale or dial. Finally, once thetorque value is set and the tool is ready for use, you then apply the torque to fasten the bolt.
When reaching the set torque value, you will hear an audible “click” or feel a vibration in the handle to indicate that the torque setting has been reached. After the tool has been used, it’s important to reset it to the lowest setting before storing.
Hand-held torque wrenches are an invaluable tool for any mechanic or engineer, providing a precise and reliable way to control the torque applied in the assembly and fastening of parts. By following these simple steps, you can easily read and use a torque wrench.
How many times should you click a torque wrench?
The number of times you should click a torque wrench depends on the specific job you are working on. Generally speaking, you should click the torque wrench for at least two full rotations (360 degrees) in order to ensure proper application of torque.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a torque wrench, as this will guarantee best results.
Can you over tighten with a torque wrench?
Yes, it is possible to over tighten with a torque wrench. The torque wrench has a safety mechanism in its design that will stop it from exceeding the maximum torque measured in Nm, In-lb, or Ft-lb pre-set by the user, but if the user over-tightens in excess of the preset value, the wrench will not stop them from doing so.
Over-tightening can damage the surfaces of the parts being fastened, including the fastener itself, or even the torque wrench itself due to sudden rush of torque that goes beyond the design of the tool.
To prevent this, users should be aware of proper torque applications principles and adhere to them. Additionally, users should always use the correct torque setting for the material being tightened, allow proper time for completing the tightening procedure, and periodically inspect the torque application.
Do you torque the nut or the bolt?
The answer to this question depends on the specific situation and the type of fastener being used. Generally speaking, when using a standard hex nut and bolt, you would torque the nut and not the bolt.
This is because the purpose of the bolt is to pull the parts together and the purpose of the nut is to act as a clamp and hold them together. The torque applied to the nut causes it to resist the tension of the bolt, making a secure connection between the two parts.
The nut should be torqued until it is tight enough to resist the tension of the bolt but not so tight as to cause damage to the bolt threads or the threads of the component that the nut is fastening.
Can I use an extender on a torque wrench?
Yes, you can use an extender on a torque wrench. An extension bar is a type of adapter that helps to reach hard-to-access fasteners. It is also used when more reach is needed to get a torque wrench closer to the fastener being worked on.
When used, the extension bar must be taken into consideration when setting the torque wrench to its desired torque value. This is done by referring to the torque wrench owner’s manual and adjusting the torque value setting as necessary to compensate for the extra length of the extender being utilized.
Additionally, the extension bar should be made of the same or a similar material that is non-magnetic and non-conductive compared to the torque wrench and fastener to ensure the accuracy of the torque setting.
What if my torque wrench doesn’t go high enough?
If your torque wrench does not go as high as you need it to, then you can find an alternative solution to apply the correct amount of torque. Depending on the tool and the application, there are a few different approaches you can take.
One of the most common is to use an impact wrench. An impact wrench applies a large-but-controlled amount of torque to a fastener, which will ensure it is tight enough to do its job. Another approach is to use a torque multiplier, which is a tool that increases the torque output of a wrench.
They are normally used for very high-torque applications, but are effective for lower torque levels as well. Finally, if you need a precise amount of torque, you can opt for a digital torque wrench which you can precisely set to the desired level.
Whichever option you choose, make sure that the tool is properly calibrated and can create the necessary torque output for your application.
What is a torque adapter used for?
A torque adapter is a tool that is used to accurately measure the amount of torque, or force, needed to drive a bolt or nut into a material. It works by attaching to a drive tool and then connecting to a socket or bolts.
It is important to measure the amount of torque because if it is too low, then it may not hold the nut or bolt in place adequately, or it could cause structural damage. Conversely, if it is too high, then it could strip the threads of the fastener, crack the material being tightened, or if it is a low grade bolt, it could shear off.
Knowing the exact torque allows for users to make sure that a fastened joint is tight and secure without placing too much force on the material. Torque adapters can be very accurate with some models being able to measure fractions of an inch-pound of torque.
Does drive size affect torque?
Yes, drive size does affect torque. Generally speaking, the larger the drive size (which is typically measured in diameter), the more torque it will generate. This is because a larger drive size means that it has a larger circumference and therefore a greater opportunity to create a larger amount of torque.
Furthermore, a larger drive size will also mean that it has more mass and mass is a source of inertia, which again will result in more torque. On the other hand, a smaller drive size will produce a lower amount of torque due to having less mass and a smaller circumference.
Therefore, the size of the drive will impact the amount of torque generated.
How do you calculate pound torque?
Pound torque is a measure of the amount of torque applied to an object, which is usually measured in foot-pounds. To calculate the value of pound torque, you must first determine the angular or rotational force (measured in foot-pounds) that is used to rotate an object around an axis.
This force is determined by multiplying the object’s mass (measured in pounds) by its angular acceleration (measured in radians per second squared). The resulting number is the total amount of torque, measured in foot-pounds, that the object can sustain.
To convert the amount of torque into pound torque, divide the amount of torque by the number of revolutions that are required to turn the object one full cycle. The resulting number is the pound torque value.
What are the torque settings?
The torque settings refer to the amount of force that needs to be applied when connecting nuts and bolts. This can vary depending on the size, quality and type of bolt or nut being used. For general use, it is recommended that a torque of up to 20 Nm (Newton metres) is applied to connect nuts and bolts of standard size.
However, it is advised to refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manuals for the appropriate settings relevant to the particular nuts and bolts in question. It is also important to note that the exact torque settings depend on the condition the connected material and the age of the material, as older and corroded parts may require a different torque.
Additionally, some materials have special torque requirements that must be adhered to, such as stainless steel, aluminum and zinc.
Does socket extension change torque value?
No, socket extensions do not change the torque value. Socket extensions are pieces of equipment used to extend the length of a socket wrench, usually for the purpose of reaching a fastened bolt that is located in an awkward or hard to reach place.
They do not increase the force applied to a fastened bolt, and they will not increase the torque value because they cannot mechanically increase the force applied. A socket extension simply allows the user to apply the same amount of force with a longer reach, making it easier to access hard to reach bolts.