Protecting Operators from Torque Reaction

When operating torque tools for high torque and high speed applications, it is extremely important to consider the issue of torque reaction of the tools being used. For torque tools such as torque multipliers, pneumatic screwdrivers, nutrunners, DC control tools and other tools that will be used for the torque application, you need to consider both how the tool will be supported and how the torque reaction and high speed will be dealt with in order to protect the operator.

Selecting the right torque tool for the job is crucial, but operator safety is key priority when operating a high torque or high speed tool. Below you will find an overview of the different types of safety solutions available for protecting the operator.

Reaction Device: Reaction taken through an additional reaction device fitted onto the tool.
Torque Arm: Reaction taken through a device or fixture onto which the tool is supported.

1. Reaction Device
This method consists of mounting a reaction bar onto the front part of the tool. Then the reaction bar must have something solid and square to react against in the work area. Reaction forces work in the opposite direction to fastener rotation, so when the bolt is tightened the tool cannot rotate or move in any way and threaten injury to the operator. The key component to consider when selecting a reaction point for the reaction bar is the area in which the reaction bar is to react against is both stable and cannot move in any way, especially bearing in mind that the reaction force will be equal to the torque being applied to the fastener. Commonly used with torque multipliers and nutrunners

2. Torque Arms
This method of solving the issue of torque reaction is different from the above, in that rather than mount a device on the tool you can mount the tool onto an additional support device, a torque arm. The ergonomic design of the torque arms reduces RMI (repetitive motion injury) and CTS (carpal tunnel syndrome). The effortless handling of the torque arm provides comfortable tool operation and increased production. The torque arms eliminate torque reaction of power and pneumatic tools.

The goal must be to protect the operator from any potential injury and make them feel comfortable and secure in operating a tool.