How to Use a Torque Wrench

Many modern mechanical tools have been developed in the 21^st century as an aid for mechanical works. The torque wrench is one such invention that has been designed with the help of modern technology. It is nothing but an upgraded version of a normal wrench.

A torque wrench works on the same basis like a normal wrench, however the only difference is that the former has an electronic dial or a meter, with the help of which the user of the wrench can apply adequate pressure and tighten the nuts and bolts till a specific level.

The basic advantage of the torque wrench is that the pressure applied on the wrench is appropriate as it is measured. The level to which the nut and bolts are tightened is ideal and the bolt does not become too tight or too loose.

The torque wrench thus helps to preserve the nut and bolt, especially the threading. It also indirectly increases the life of nut and bolt, thus, can be used to their maximum efficiency. Another advantage of the torque wrench is that nuts and bolts can be tightened to an ideal level in congested places.

The following are some of the types of commonly used torque wrenches.

• Beam type
• Deflecting beam
• Click type
• 'No hub' wrench
• Electronic torque wrench
• Programmable angle wrenches
• Mechatronic torque wrenches

Step 1: Using the torque wrench is pretty simple and straight forward. However, before we actually proceed to the method of using the torque wrench, it is necessary to understand and observe the torque wrench. There is not a very huge difference between a normal and torque wrench.

The upper part where the socket for tightening the nut and bolt is same as the normal wrench. The handle of the torque wrench also contains the dial that can be used to set the desired pressure.

Step 2: In the second step, determine the nut and bolt that you wish to tighten. It is very important to identify the size of the nut and bolt. The manual of the wrench describes the sizing of the nut and bolt.

The manual also contains the weight, force and torque that has to be applied to the specific sized nut and bolt. This torque varies according to the length and diameter of the nut and bolt.

Step 3: In the third step, consider the dial and set it according to the size and diameter of the nut and bolt. To set the dial, one must first unlock the mechanism of the wrench. The dial of the wrench when turned clockwise, increases the tension of the wrench and when turned anti-clockwise, reduces the tension of the wrench.

Step 4: While using the torque wrench, it is very important to refer to the manual for appropriate settings, according to the nut and bolt.

Step 5: Fix the appropriate socket of the wrench on to the nut or bolt and then slowly begin the tightening process. Make sure that you use short and equally spaced strokes.

Step 6: When the nut or bolt is tight enough, the wrench slips or stops the actual tightening of the nut or bolt. When the appropriate pressure is gained, the mechanism inside the wrench cuts off the force that is being applied by the user.

Step 7: Check the tightness by removing the wrench and using it again. If the wrench refuses to exert the force on the nut or bolt the second time, you have tightened (the nut or bolt) properly.

As mentioned earlier, the torque wrench is very effective in tightening the screws and bolts to the required level. It is however very essential to use the torque wrench systematically and according to the manual.