subject: The Benefits Of Torque Tools [print this page] Often, contractors utilize torque instruments as quality-control tools that prevent damage and promote uniform results. That said, when they use ordinary screwdrivers and wrenches, significant problems sometimes follow. Since workers have varying levels of strength, they aren't able to tighten screws and bolts in the same way. The resulting non-uniformity can create aesthetic issues and structural problems, especially when large crews are used on a single project. Ordinary tools can also lead to stripping, thanks to over-tightening and worker fatigue. To appreciate the benefits of torque tools, understand how they work to encourage uniformity and efficiency.
Torque screwdrivers
Torque screwdrivers consist of six main parts: a chuck, chuck locking mechanism, dual planetary gear system, electric motor, switch and battery. Together, these parts allow the screwdriver to create enough torque to loosen and tighten screws without forcing the worker to use much effort.
There are three common varieties of torque screwdrivers, including angle, pistol grip and inline. However they are designed, these tools have one major purpose: to encourage quality control by letting workers adjust torque levels. Just as important, torque screwdrivers contain a clutch that forces the tools into neutral once they reach predefined torque levels. This beneficial feature prevents over-tightening and encourages uniformity where multiple workers are engaged in a single building project.
Torque wrenches
Created by Conrad Bahr almost ten decades ago, the torque wrench also uses predefined torque settings to prevent over-tightening and encourage uniformity. Typically, these tools look a lot like socket wrenches; however, similar to torque screwdrivers, they come equipped with internal devices that cause the wrench to enter a neutral state when predetermined torque levels are met.
Torque testers
The torque tester is another quality-control tool used to calibrate torque wrenches, screwdrivers, pulse instruments and other tools that utilize torque to perform their functions. When these tools are attached to the tester, a digital readout is shown reflecting the tool's torque output. These exact readouts help contractors ensure that every tool is calibrated equally; so he or she can feel confident that all bolts and screws will be tightened the same despite each worker's level of strength.
