Types of Torque Wrench

1-MICROMETER:

DESCRIPTION: Also referred to as a "click" wrench, these are the most popular type of mechanical torque wrench. An internal spring is tightened by turning the handle. The spring pushes against a block, and both are calibrated so the block pivots when the torque setting has been reached. This quick pivoting creates the "click" sound. When the force at the handle is released, the block resets to its original position and is ready for the next torque application.

OPERATION: Set the desired torque value by pulling down on the lock ring while turning the handle. Al- ways

approach torque setting from a lower setting. The tube displays the major torque values, and the lock ring has the

minor torque values. Apply force at the handle until the "click" is felt or heard, and then release force.

ADVANTAGES: Most common type of torque wrench. "click" felt at the handle indicates torque value reached. Rugged, durable legacy design.

DISADVANTAGES: After day's use, internal spring pressure must be released by unwinding the handle.

APPLICATION: Highly versatile: any general-purpose torque applications: auto engine, machine maintenance,

construction, oil field, compressor/generator, etc.

2-SPLIT BEAM:

DESCRIPTION: Also called a "click" wrench, this type is most popular for automotive tire and wheel installation and other heavy use environments. Torque value is set by turning a small knob on the side of the wrench. Two internal arms (the "split beam") bend when force is applied at the handle, and a trigger device reacts when the set torque is reached, causing a "click" that can be felt and heard.

OPERATION: Set the desired torque value by turning the knob on the side of the wrench. Always approach torque setting from a lower setting. Apply force at the handle until the "click" is felt or heard, and then release force.

ADVANTAGES: Fast to set; no unwinding after use. "click" felt in handle indicates torque value. One-way ratchet eliminates damage due to misuse as a breaker bar.

DISADVANTAGES: One-way ratchet does not allow counterclockwise torque (this is a very rare need). Less fine

adjustment vs. micrometer.

APPLICATION: Brake, tire and wheel shops; any general purpose mechanical applications.

3-MECHANICAL DIAL:

DESCRIPTION: Uses a fixed, non-ratcheting square drive. Available in single scale and dual scale models. As force is applied at the handle, an internal beam flexes against a precision movement which rotates a needle pointing to the torque value against the dial scale. A memory needle indicates the highest torque value achieved.

OPERATION: Reset the orange pointer to zero by grasping the black bezel ring and turning. Turn the blue needle

until it contacts, but does not move, the main orange pointer needle. Pull to desired torque and re- lease. Needle

must NEVER exceed 180 degrees of movement.

ADVANTAGES: Very accurate, user can visually track the approaching and achieved torque value on scale. Also you can observe the "effect" of torque on the work piece.

DISADVANTAGES: Fixed (non-ratcheting) head. Subject to viewing angle (parallax) error.

APPLICATION: Wherever the "click" of torque needs to be observed. Recommended for use with all torque multipliers. Lower cost substitute for electronic wrenches when high accuracy is required.

4-DIGITAL DIAL:

DESCRIPTION: More accurate than a mechanical dial, and easier to use and read because of large LCD readout and color LED light bar. Utilizes an internal electronic strain gauge to measure torque. Uses a fixed, non-ratcheting square drive as do the mechanical dial wrenches

OPERATION: Turn on using the power but- ton, set the units of torque by pressing the "click" button, and set the desired torque using the "+ or -" keys. Pull wrench, slow down when YELLOW LED lights, and stop when GREEN lights.

ADVANTAGES: Highly accurate. Easy read LCD, and LED lights indicate approaching (yellow), achieved (green), and over torque (red). Peak hold mode measures breakaway torque. Also measures rolling torque.

DISADVANTAGES: Fixed (non-ratcheting) head

APPLICATION: Great for use in any dial wrench application where more accuracy is required. Checks rolling torque; auditing breakaway (removal) torque. Easy to use low cost digital torque wrench.

5-ELECTRONIC:

DESCRIPTION Most versatile and accurate torque wrench. Operates by means of a internal electronic strain gage

with digital readout. Torque value setting can be heard (beep) and seen (digital screen and lights). Torque & Angle models enable fast and easy application of desired torque, plus additional angle application through internal Gyro chip which measures up to 360 degrees of rotation.

OPERATION: Turn on using the power but- ton, set the units of torque by pressing the "U" button, and set the desired torque using the "+ or -" keys. Pull wrench, slow down when YELLOW LED lights, and stop when GREEN lights.

ADVANTAGES: Highly accurate; easy to use; at least 3 units of measure (ft. lbs., in. lbs., Nm); some models measure

angle. Faster for most applications. Peak hold mode.

DISADVANTAGES: More susceptible to damage if exposed to moisture.

APPLICATION May be used virtually anywhere a click wrench is used. Every customer who is using click wrenches should experience the advantages and benefits of a Electronic torque wrench.