Torque Measurement

Similar to power tools, torque measurement tools will go out of calibration with extended use. Regular examinations are needed to detect wear and defective parts to keep these tools working at optimal function. The right torque measurement tool can highlight potential problems before they arise, preventing costly repairs. Regular calibration and re-calibration will also guarantee consistency, accuracy, and continued adherence to industry standards.

How Do You Measure Torque?

Torque control is essential for companies to ensure product quality, safety, and reliability. At Mountz, our “torque tool specialists” have over 50 years of experience providing the torque measurement solutions that your business needs. We can recommend the equipment you need when measuring torque during the three main facets of the assembly process:

1. Torque Measurement Prior to Assembly

Certain torque measurement tools are useful before the assembly process begins. Equipment like torque sensors and torque analyzers are used for two major purposes:

Tool setup - In setting a torque tool, a tool calibration lab or crib will set the torque measurement tool according to torque specifications required for the application.

Tool capability studies - During this process, a technician will ensure a measurement tool can provide the needed torque and repeatability required for an application.

2. Torque Measurement During Assembly

Some manufacturers wish to audit the tool to verify the actual torque being applied during the assembly. This is especially true of electric and pneumatic assembly tools. The ideal torque measurement tool for this process is the rotary torque sensor, which can be connected between the assembly application and an electric/pneumatic tool. An engineer can then obtain a dynamic torque measurement, which will highlight the amount of torque that is applied from the tool to the bolt or fastener.

Test Tool Performance

When measuring torque during assembly, it is important to test the tool’s performance. Manufacturers do this to validate the tool torque setting, but it should be noted that the performance on the application could differ from the tool lab or crib results. This is because each assembly application will have a different joint rate or tolerance.

Many employers also utilize a torque tester on production floors to ensure test tool performance. This is especially true of hand tools like torque screwdrivers or wrenches, and assemblers may be required to verify settings on a daily or weekly basis to ensure proper calibration. 

3. Torque Measurement After Assembly

After one final inspection, manufacturers can select to verify the torque after the assembly process is complete. This allows them to ensure the proper amount of torque was delivered to the fastener. The process will also detect any loose or missed fasteners and can identify joint relaxation. 

What is Residual Torque?

When measuring torque, it is also important to consider residual torque. This is the amount of tension that stays in a joint after use of a threaded fastener. To determine residual torque, use the “just move” test and invest in the right torque measurement tools:

Torque Screwdriver Sensor - It is a torque instrument designed for auditing or tightening fasteners to a specified torque when mated with a torque analyzer.

·    Digital torque wrench  - This torque measurement tool will determine the level of torque applied after three degrees of movement. It will show the angle applied and the final torque measurement.

·    Dial Screwdriver or Dial Wrench - These hand tools will capture the finishing torque that has been applied to a fastener as it use memory pointers.

With decades of torque measurement tool experience, at Mountz, we have created solutions for the medical, aerospace, electronics, and energy industries. We are an ISO 9001 certified and ISO 17025 accredited company, and we look forward to helping you with your business needs. Contact us today to learn more about our torque tools and services.