Torque wrenches are often used to torque the lugs on a wheel when changing tires, and for race car drivers, every time they get on the track. We don’t have to go into a lot of detail here for you to imagine just how dangerous it would be to have a torque wrench that is out of sync.
It is important to get your torque wrench calibrated by a professional to ensure that you are always using a reliable tool. If they are used regularly, you should calibrate them yearly and more often if the work requires precision and accuracy. If it has been dropped or damaged in any way, it is important to check the calibration.
Calibration is time consuming so different companies have come up with different devices to perform calibration services. They make the work quick and easy but not necessarily very accurate. Scheduling your calibration will remove any and all errors in your work.
There is a lot of information on how to do it yourself but ideally, you should have your tools calibrated by a professional.
What to do if you’re Torque Wrench is off?
Even if you take good care of your torque wrench you should have your torque wrench tested once a year to ensure that it is calibrated correctly.
If it happens to be off by a few ft-lbs then what is the best option? Torque wrench calibration is usually not done on those that are a few ft- lbs off.
How to Avoid a Wacky Torque Wrench
The next question is, how can you avoid ending up with a Torque Wrench that is out of whack?
1. If possible store in the manufactures case inside a dry area.
2. Treat it as a delicate piece of equipment.
3. Always remember to back off the torque indicator to a low torque setting before storing it for the next use.
4. Purchase a torque wrench that operates within your torque range. If you are checking torque levels at 80-100 ft-lbs you need more than a 100 ft-lbs torque wrench. Find one in the 200 range. This will allow for a more accurate reading
5. Do not turn knurled handle below the lowest torque setting. This means you should not turn the wrench past the “click”.
6. If it has not been used for some time, turns the knurled handles (clockwise and counterclockwise) several times to re- lubricate the internal workings.
Dropping your wrench or lack of use are some of the reasons for your torque being off.
Conclusion
In order to always have accurate and precise results, it is important to get your torque wrench calibrate properly. Most mechanics are now opting for the high end digital torques that allows them to see exactly how much pressure is being applied. This is an easy way to know when your torque is off. Torque wrench calibration is important for every mechanic looking to do a good job.
Author Bio
Edward S finds calibration of measuring equipment absolutely necessary to maintain accuracy and efficiency of reactions and laboratory processes. In this article, Edward talks about the necessity of pressure transmitter calibration and how it can be carried out. For more information on equipment.
