If you want to test a torque wrench to make sure it is operating correctly, it’s important to find a secure, stable location. You can do this outdoors in a safe area with a solid surface, like concrete, that’s preferably flat, level and clear of debris.
Before starting, make sure the torque wrench is disconnected from power, reset to zero and all the dials are at the minimum setting.
When testing the torque wrench, you’ll want to use a calibrated torque testing device. This can be done with a torque audit stand, torque transducer or torque tester. Place the torque wrench over the torque testing device so the wrench’s drive square is fully engaged and make sure the release button is depressed.
Set the device’s scale to the required value, then apply the torque wrench to the torque testing device. You can use a dial indicator to read the torque output. You should record the torque at each 50% or 25% increments of the scale range for accuracy.
After you’ve finished testing and graphing the results, carefully compare the scale against the output and make sure the values match.
If not, you will need to recalibrate your torque wrench. Keep in mind that even torque wrenches that are regularly maintained can become inaccurate over time. Therefore, it’s important to have your torque wrench tested and calibrated on a regular basis to ensure precision and accuracy.
Do all torque wrenches need to be calibrated?
No, not all torque wrenches need to be calibrated. Most torque wrenches have a pre-set range of torque that they are capable of measuring and they can generally hold this torque rating until the moving parts wear out.
However, if the torque wrench is being used for precision work or for accuracy, it should be calibrated regularly to make sure that it is in good working order and is accurate. Calibration is recommended for torque wrenches that are used for critical applications in order to ensure that the torque ratings are correct and the wrench is functioning properly.
Additionally, torque wrenches will typically need to be recalibrated if they are ever dropped or exposed to any kind of shock. Ultimately, calibration is not a requirement for all wrenches but for the best accuracy and safety it is recommended for precision and critical applications.
Can a torque wrench be inaccurate?
Yes, a torque wrench can be inaccurate due to several different factors. One of the most common causes of inaccuracy is wear over time. With regular use, torque wrenches can become worn out, which can cause the readings to be off.
This can lead to a torque being either too high or too low, which can cause damage to the fastener or the surrounding parts. Other factors that can lead to an inaccurate torque wrench are incorrect calibration and environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.
Additionally, if a torque wrench is not well maintained – such as being improperly stored or taken care of – this can lead to inaccuracy as well. To better ensure accurate readings, it is important to regularly calibrate torque wrenches, properly store them, and properly maintain them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How do you exercise a torque wrench?
Exercising a torque wrench is a straightforward and important process that should be done regularly to ensure that it is accurate and in proper working order. Before use, you should first calibrate the wrench to ensure that it is set to your desired torque.
Once calibrated, the following steps should be taken to properly exercise the torque wrench:
1. With the wrench set to the lowest setting, adjust the handle until you feel the first click, meaning that the torque has engaged. Hold the wrench at this same tension for a few seconds before releasing the handle.
2. Increase the torque setting to the next level and repeat this process.
3. Continue increasing the torque until you reach the highest setting of the wrench.
4. Once you have reached the highest torque setting, reduce the torque back to the lowest setting, repeating steps 1 and 2 through each increment.
5. Finally, reset the torque wrench to your desired setting and repeat the entire process.
It is important to exercise a torque wrench regularly in order to get the most out of this helpful tool. Doing so will help keep it in proper working order, ensuring that your wrenches are accurate and reliable.
How do I know if my torque wrench is working?
To determine if your torque wrench is working, you need to inspect it visually as well as test it with a known measurement. Visually, check to make sure there are no signs of damage such as corrosion or deformations.
Also check to ensure the tension adjustment mechanism is working properly and that all parts are securely tightened.
To test it with a known measurement, you will need to use a certified torque calibration device or a torque calibrator. Begin by setting the torque wrench to the prescribed torque value. Engage the tension mechanism and make sure the display on the torque wrench says the desired torque.
Next, attach the calibrator to the torque wrench to verify it is calibrated correctly and that the same torque is indicated by both devices. If the values match and the display lights up properly, then the torque wrench is working properly.
If the values don’t match, it may be that the torque wrench needs adjusting or servicing.
How many times should you click a torque wrench?
When using a torque wrench, you should click it until the torque wrench stops clicking and the handle is pushed back slightly, indicating that the desired torque has been reached. It is important to always click the torque wrench a minimum of three times to ensure that the setting is correct and that the correct torque is achieved.
It is also important to note that, due to the design of the torque wrench, the first click is usually very light. Therefore, you should click until you feel at least three distinct clicks. Additionally, if you need to adjust the torque setting, it is best to allow the torque wrench to release and reset, then repeat the clicking process.
What is the tolerance on a torque wrench?
The tolerance on a torque wrench depends on the torque wrench type and size. Generally, torque wrenches have a tolerance between +/- 4% and +/- 8%. The accuracy of the torque wrench, i. e. the tolerance level, is an essential factor to consider, as a more accurate torque wrench will result in a more precise application of torque to the fastener.
It is important to use the correct torque wrench, as an incorrect torque setting can cause the fastener being applied to be not secure, possibly causing damage to the equipment. When using a torque wrench, manufacturers’ recommendations should always be followed to ensure proper operation.
Is 4% accuracy for a torque wrench good?
Overall, a 4% accuracy for a torque wrench is considered good. For many workshops and automotive repair scenarios, a 4% torque wrench accuracy is adequate for normal tightening applications. However, for more precise installations where an exact quantity of torque is critical for proper function or performance, higher accuracy tools should be used.
Examples would include things like critical fasteners in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. For these applications, torque wrenches with a 2% or better accuracy should be utilized. A 4% accuracy is more than adequate for general automotive and shop applications.
How much does it cost to calibrate your torque wrench?
The cost of calibrating a torque wrench will vary depending on the type of instrument, the repair service you are using, and any additional charges they may incur. Generally, the cost of torque wrench calibration will range between $50 and $300, depending on the complexity of the instrument and the repair service you are using.
Furthermore, some services may offer discounts based on the quantity and frequency of calibrations you need. Additionally, depending on the repair service, you may be required to pay a fee for shipping and handling, which can range from as little as $10 to as much as $50, depending on the size and weight of the instrument.
Ultimately, it is best to consult with a professional repair service to better gauge the potential costs of calibrating your torque wrench.
How do you test a torque wrench with another torque wrench?
Testing a torque wrench with another torque wrench is a simple process, but it is important to make sure that both of the torque wrenches are properly calibrated before beginning the process. First, you should record the readings from both torque wrenches, as this will help determine the variation between them.
If the variation between the two readings is greater than 3%, the torque wrenches should be recalibrated. Then, set the reference torque wrench to the correct settings for the task you are performing.
This setting should be compared to the output of the test torque wrench. If the difference between the two readings is more than the allowable variance, it is recommended that the test torque wrench should be recalibrated.
For optimal accuracy and safety, it is important to follow these instructions when testing a torque wrench with another torque wrench.