Many must know that torque is a type of rotational force we use daily. However, the force must be calibrated in the fitting process, or it will not function accordingly. It is similar to opening the knob of a door or using a screwdriver to tighten or unlock a screw. If you do not use the proper force, things may not work in your favor.
Moreover, when applying the required force, you must consider certain factors like the surface, the material used, and other external conditions. Hence, there must be the right kind of combination of factors that will help to make the process work accurately.
What is a Torque Wrench?
You must have seen professionals changing the tires of vehicles. The nuts and bolts take a lot of work to fasten them. However, if you use the right tool, the entire process is smooth. It is here where a torque wrench comes into play. It is a type of tool that can help in tightening or unfastening screws and bolts with ease without causing damage to the machine.
Therefore, you must ensure the correct torque wrench for your machine; otherwise, it may also lead to accidents and damages. There are various types of torque wrenches that you can use according to your work specifications. A torque wrenches is extremely useful in the automobile industry and similar areas.
Why is it Needed to Calibrate a Torque Wrench?
You may have invested in an expensive torque range. However, gradually you realize that the results could be more accurate. Hence, failing to fasten the nuts and bolts may lead to severe consequences. There may be several reasons for the malfunctioning of the torque wrench.
Therefore, you must find the actual cause of the improper functioning of the torque wrench. One of the most common errors among users is that they need to calibrate the torque wrench on time. Following are the reasons that will tell you why calibration of the torque wrench is essential.
1. Accurate Measurement
One of the prime reasons to purchase a torque wrench is its high accuracy level. Usually, a torque wrench gives a high percentage of accuracy. However, there is a difference in the level of accuracy depending on the purchase price. Hence, purchasing a high-quality torque wrench is recommended for the best results if you want to maintain a perfect accuracy level.
Various types of torque wrenches are available in the market according to their specifications. Therefore, if you want a high level of accuracy, go for the premium version. It will last longer, and the level of accuracy will be according to your satisfaction. However, whatever the quality of the torque wrench, you must, on a timely basis, ensure to calibrate it.
It is because once you find that the level of accuracy is not according to its standards, there is an urgent requirement for calibration. It would be best to ignore it; otherwise, it can give drastic results that may be improper for your company. Moreover, if you calibrate the torque wrench, ensure that you use international standards for the best results.
2. Frequency Of Usage
It would be best if you calibrated your torque wrench once in a while. According to the rule, it is recommended that you calibrate the torque wrench once every twelve months, even if you are not using it regularly. However, if your torque wrench is extremely busy, it is advisable to calibrate it once every five thousand uses.
It is mandatory because, gradually, the accuracy level tends to fall. Therefore, if you are using it regularly, go for calibration regularly. Once the calibration is done, the frequency of uses comes down before the next re-calibration. Therefore, it is advisable to calibrate according to the number of usages to get the best results.
3. Improper Storage
It would be best to store the torque wrench correctly, or it will start to falter with time. Moreover, it is also necessary that if you are not using the torque wrench regularly, ensure to keep the settings as low as possible. The tension spring of the torque wrench is significant for producing accurate results. Hence, you will only get the desired results if the spring functions correctly due to improper storage.
Therefore, if you find that the torque wrench is giving improper results, it is advisable to calibrate it as soon as possible for positive results. It also ensures that your torque wrench is in proper condition. Hence, it would be best if you kept all the setting levels at zero so that it does not damage the torque wrench internally.
4. Temperature & Weather
A torque wrench will gradually weaken if it is constantly used in extremes of temperature. Hence, if the surrounding area’s temperature is very high or below freezing, there will most likely be a risk in the tool. It can lead to rusting of the torque wrench, and the internal mechanism can develop faults. Thus, while using the tool, you may not get accurate results, or it may not function at all.
Therefore, to keep the torque wrench in excellent condition, you must take good care of the tool. Rain, snow, and temperature extremes are enemies of the torque wrench. So, if you do not store the tool in proper environmental conditions, it can damage the tool. Therefore, if you invest in a torque wrench, ensure you keep the tool in proper order, which can lead to damage. It will produce accurate results, which may need to be revised for your company.
5. Improper Use
If you are an amateur, you must use the torque wrench correctly. Usually, you need the right amount of force and grip to make the torque wrench work at its best. However, if you are using the tool with prior knowledge, it can protect the tool. You will also need to get accurate results.
You must also ensure that you are using the torque wrench in the correct form. Therefore, if you are a first-time user of the tool, calibrate it soon, as damage may lead to inaccurate results. Once confident with the tool, you can use it endlessly according to your needs and requirements.
How to Calibrate a Torque Wrench?
If you have invested in a torque wrench, you must train yourself to calibrate the tool, and it will ensure that the torque wrench is in perfect order for years. Following are the steps to calibrate a torque wrench.
1. Capture Your Measurement
You must know how to measure with your torque wrench; otherwise, you will not get accurate results. Therefore, you must always measure from the center of the square drive from where the socket is attached. Use a proper unit, like an inch, to measure, as it will help to make the calculations easier.
Once you have made the measurements, use a dark marker to mark. Moreover, since torque wrenches are of varying lengths, you can choose the type according to the nature of your work for the best results.
2. Secure Your Torque Wrench
You will need a vice or a socket where you will be able to lock the torque wrench. Moreover, if you perform a calibration test, attach a rope and a weight to get the best results.
However, you must ensure to keep it tight enough for you to get the desired results. It can also damage the tool, a big blow to your investment.
3. Start Your Calculations
If you want to get the correct setting for your torque wrench, you will need to multiply the distance you had initially measured by the weight you are using. You will then need to divide the result by twelve to get the correct calculation in foot-pound. However, if you use different measurement units, the results will vary accordingly.
4. Securing the Weight to Perform a Calibration Check
First, you need to tie the rope around your weight. You must make a loop at the other end so that the torque wrench handle fits easily. You need to set the torque wrench accordingly for the best results.
Suspend the weight from the point of the marking you initially made with a marker. If you do not hear any click, then the calibration is accurate, else you will have to make the changes in the settings accordingly.
5. Adjusting Your Torque Wrench
If your torque wrench is not properly adjusted, you can manually adjust it by tightening the tension spring. You will find the tension spring in the middle of the torque wrench, and you can then adjust it according to your needs and requirements.
However, it is essential that before you start using the torque wrench, ensure that the calibration is proper so that you get accurate results.
Torque Wrench Calibration – FAQs
Ans: Yes, torque wrenches should be regularly calibrated as their usage can cause them to lose accuracy and setting points over time.
Ans: The cost of calibrating a torque wrench can vary based on the type of wrench. For mechanical “click” torque wrenches below 280N.m or equivalent models, it’s $40.00 per tool. Dial and flat beam torque wrenches below 280N.m or equivalent models cost $60.00 per tool. Dial and flat beam torque wrenches between 280N.m and 700N.m or equivalent models cost $80.00 per tool.
Ans: Testing the calibration of your torque tools every six to twelve months is a good practice. This frequency strikes a balance between maintaining accuracy and reliability without causing significant disruptions to productivity.
Ans: To check the calibration of your torque wrench, follow these steps:
*Before applying load, secure the clamp plate.
*Smoothly turn the handwheel to apply load to the torque wrench.
*Ensure there is a torque transducer attached to a display instrument.
*Measure the applied torque using the display instrument.
*This process will help you verify if the torque wrench is properly calibrated.
Conclusion
The screws and bolts of your machine must be fastened tightly so that it works appropriately. However, if you find errors, you must use a torque wrench. The tool gives you the confidence that all the screws and bolts are perfectly fitted to the machine. It can lead to accurate results.
