Torque wrench safety and usage

When using a torque wrench, it is extremely important to understand how to correctly use this precision tool.

Following these few simple rules will ensure your safety and longevity of your torque wrench:

  • Read instruction manual before using your torque wrench.
  • Safety glasses or goggles should be worn at all times when using any hand tool.
  • Always pull, DO NOT PUSH, to apply torque and adjust your stance to prevent a fall.
  • A cheater bar should NEVER be used on a torque wrench to apply excess leverage.
  • Do not use with sockets or fasteners showing wear or cracks.
  • Ratchet mechanism may slip or break if dirty, mismatched or worn parts are used, therefore, properly inspect your torque wrench before using.
  • Make sure direction lever is fully engaged on the ratchet.
  • All mechanical torque wrenches are calibrated from 20% to 100% of full scale, therefore, they should never be used below or above those limits.
  • To determine which torque wrench capacity is best suited for an application, many factors must be considered. However, as a recommendation, use a torque wrench in the middle 50% of the overall capacity of the tool. This will result in longer tool life, ease of use for the operator and increased accuracy from micrometer adjustable type torque wrenches.
  • Always grip handle firmly in the centre of the grip.
  • Approach final torque slowly and evenly.
  • Stop pulling wrench immediately when target torque is reached.
  • Torque Wrench should be properly cleaned and stored.
  • Micrometer adjustable type torque wrenches should always be stored at its lowest torque setting. Remember to always unwind handle after each use.
  • Wrenches should be re-calibrated if dropped and should never be used in excess of its capacity.
  • Micrometer Adjustable Torque Wrenches should be exercised a minimum of three times at 100% of full scale before use.
  • The wrench selected should be calibrated in the same torque units that are specified.
  • Use of a cheater bar will result in an inaccurate reading and can possibly damage the wrench.
  • Clean torque wrench by wiping. Do not immerse.
  • The wrench should be sent to a qualified calibration lab once every year or every 2,500 cycles for re-calibration.

Article courtesy of Warren & Brown Precision Tools

http://wbtools.com.au/torque-wrench-safety-and-usage/