Fasteners need to be tightened just right since both over-tightening and under-tightening can have adverse effects.
A torque wrench is a device that is used to measure rigor when working with fasteners. The best Gedore torque tools are adjustable. Their primary function is to ensure bolts are not under tightened or over tightened. Both of these cases are dangerous in different ways that can reduce the effectiveness of the fasteners.
The best Gedore torque tools should be for tightening purposes only, and not for loosening. It is essential to understand that the torque required to loosen is higher than the torque needed to tighten.
Types of Torque
The most commonly used torque wrenches take the form of a socket wrench and have a long handle that is used to apply torque. There are types of torque wrenches head types such as open-ended spanner wrench, hook spanner wrenches, ring spanner wrenches, and adjustable head wrench.
Torque wrenches are classified into two broad categories namely:
- Wrenches that use a precogitated amount of torque
- Wrenches that determine the amount of torque used
Torque wrenches are made with different internal mechanics, some of which are explained below.
Beam Type Torque Wrenches
This kind of torque determines the amount of torque and is made using a material that curves when force is applied. A small auxiliary bar is used to manufacture the Beam torque wrench. Torque is administered on this bar, but it does not move. The amount of torque applied is indicated on an analog display that is mounted on the handle. Because of their analog nature, beam torque wrenches are not the most accurate. This, notwithstanding, they are the most affordable, durable, and simplest to use.
Deflecting Beam Torque Wrenches
These torque wrenches use a bending mechanism to transmit torque, unlike the coil spring used in other torque wrenches. Also known as dual-single deflecting beam torque wrenches, they were invented by an Australian Company. They are made from a sliding scale that is adjusted according to the required torque level. Once the desired torque is achieved, the deflecting beam gets into contact with the sliding scale, which presses a button that makes a sound and gives an indicator.
Click Type Torque Wrenches
The click-type torque wrench makes a clicking sound when the desired torque has been achieved while tightening. The handle consists of markings that show the torque setting. The mechanism here is made up of a ball detent and a calibrated spring for the given torques. Once the desired torque is achieved, the ball moves out of the detent and prevents further torquing.
Dial Torque Wrenches
The dial torque wrenches contain an analog dial that shows the amount of force that is being applied. The preciseness mechanism pushes a rod when a force is applied. This rod then pushes a cursor on the analog display. This category of wrenches come in three main settings.
- Plain dial configuration that contains a single cursor showing the torque value on the display
- Dial with signal configuration, which comes with a light or buzzer signal, triggered once the predetermined amount of torque is achieved
- Dial with memory configuration contains an auxiliary pointer, also known as the memory pointer. The primary cursor pushes this auxiliary pointer to show the highest amount of torque that is applied
Benefits of Using a Torque Wrench
Vehicle manufacturers give specific tightening values for each fastener used on the vehicle. The main reason behind this is purely for safety to both the driver and the passengers. When a driver takes the vehicle for repair, the mechanics should ensure they comply with the manufacturer’s specifications.
Risks Involved with Failure to Use a Torque Wrench
When it is too loose, there is a risk of the nut or bolt to unscrew spontaneously when the vehicle is in motion.
When it is too tight, there is the risk of the bolt shank breaking at some point and all the other parts disengaging, still risking the tire falling off as the vehicle is in motion.
Choosing the Appropriate Torque Wrench
You have an option of picking one of the two types of torque wrenches namely:
Manual Torque Wrench
This type of torque wrench is more recommended for the everyday maintenance of light vehicles since it has the necessary features for such an application.
Pneumatic Torque Wrench
This is a more advanced tool that is recommended for use with heavy vehicle applications such as changing the wheel of a truck or maintenance of construction machinery. The pneumatic torque wrench is more expensive compared to the manual torque wrench.
How to pick the Right Torque Wrench
Whether you are going for the manual or pneumatic torque wrench, the essential factors to consider are the quality and precision of the tool. You should also ensure the calibration complies with the international standards specifications.
