A torque wrench is a device used to accurately apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener, such as a nut or bolt. The intent of torque wrench is to be able to tighten fasteners to a specific level, usually specified by manufacturer, without over or under tightening it. Torque wrenches need to be calibrated in order to provide an accurate setting of tightening torque.
Calibration is required in order to ensure that torque wrench is providing correct amount of torque to fasteners. Over or under tightening can lead to problems such as an improperly sealed joint, which can lead to leaks, or even cause a fastener to break. If a torque wrench is not properly calibrated it can also lead to a situation where fastener is not properly tightened, which can cause it to come loose during operation.
The calibration of a torque wrench is done by measuring output of wrench with a calibrated torque instrument. The calibration involves placing torque wrench into a fixture, then applying known torques that exceed maximum torque output of torque wrench. This allows torque wrench to be checked to make sure that setting is accurate and that no discrepancies between output and torque values chosen by user exist.
Calibration should occur any time torque wrench is dropped, or if it has been used for a long period of time without being checked. Torque wrenches should also be checked regularly, such as every two to three months. This helps ensure that torque wrench is providing correct amount of torque to all of fasteners that it is used on.
When a torque wrench is calibrated, it is important to make sure that torque values that user has chosen are still accurate. This can be done by comparing output of torque wrench to readings from calibrated torque instrument. If values are different, calibration of torque wrench should be adjusted until readings are accurate.
Calibration of torque wrenches is essential in order to ensure that fastener being tightened is not over or under tightened. This helps ensure that fastener is correctly installed, which can have an effect on safety of product and its performance. Without proper calibration of torque wrenches, it can be difficult to ensure that all of fasteners used are correctly tightened, which can lead to problems such as leaks or failures.