Torque Tools

A defined torque ensures that a bolted connection is neither too loose nor tightened more than necessary. The appropriate tool type depends on how the connection is to be made. Mechanical torque wrenches indicate that the set value has been reached by means of a signal, movement or slipping mechanism. Electronic versions display measured values digitally and, depending on the design, may offer additional functions for storing, evaluating or documenting data.

Interchangeable open-end and insert tools expand the possible applications of a torque wrench. They allow different socket sizes, screw profiles and designs to be used without requiring a complete individual tool for every application. The torque wrench socket must match the relevant tool. Attachments with a different distance between the socket and the centre of the screw can alter the effective lever length. In such cases, observe the manufacturer’s specifications for setting and use.

Measuring and testing devices are not intended for tightening screws during normal work. They are used to record or check torque and angle values. These devices are used when tools need to be tested, measured values recorded or screwdriving processes monitored. The technical limits of the relevant tool and the requirements for regular testing apply to all applications.

Interchangeable tools are replaceable tool heads that are attached to a suitable socket on the torque wrench. They transfer the set torque to the screw or nut and allow the tool to be adapted to different socket sizes, profiles and installation situations.

Interchangeable ratchets have a ratchet mechanism. The direction of rotation can generally be switched so that screws can be tightened or loosened. They are suitable for work where the tool head should not have to be removed after every partial movement.

Interchangeable open-end wrenches grip a nut or screw head from two sides. They are useful when the fastening element is accessible from the side or cannot be fully enclosed. The tool must be positioned straight and make contact as fully as possible to prevent damage to the surfaces of the fastening element.

Interchangeable test inserts connect torque wrenches or torque sockets to a testing or measuring device. They transfer torque to the test equipment in a defined manner and are primarily used for inspection and testing tasks.

Interchangeable ring spanners enclose the nut or screw head with a ring. This allows them to engage with several surfaces and provides reliable power transmission when access is suitable. Depending on the design, different socket sizes and ring profiles are available.

Interchangeable pin spanners transfer torque through pins or drive studs into specially designed holes, grooves or profiles. They are used when a fastening element cannot be gripped with a conventional open-end or ring spanner.

Interchangeable square drives provide a square socket or square drive for connecting sockets, adapters or other tools. They expand the possible tool combinations and must match the rest of the tool system in terms of size, fit and load capacity.

Insert tools are pushed into a suitable socket on the torque wrench. The insert socket allows different tool heads to be changed quickly. Depending on the design, open, closed, ratcheting or special tool profiles can be used.

Insert adapters create a connection between the insert socket and another tool socket. For example, they can connect the torque wrench to a square drive, bit holder or special tool head. The socket, insertion depth and permissible torque must be compatible.

Insert welding components are prepared tool parts for individual or application-specific solutions. They can be connected to a suitable tool head when a special geometry or screw profile is required. The design, manufacture and testing of such a solution must be carried out professionally.

Insert bit holders accommodate bits with a suitable shank. They allow interchangeable screw profiles to be used with a torque wrench. The bit must be held securely and designed for the required torque.

Insert handles serve as special handling or extension elements within an insert system. They can facilitate guidance, access or operation in specific working positions. It is essential that the specified force and torque transmission are maintained.

Insert open-end wrenches are pushed into the socket and grip nuts or screw heads from the side. They are suitable for fastening elements that cannot be reached completely with a closed tool head.

Insert ring ratchet wrenches combine a closed ring with a ratchet mechanism. This allows work in hard-to-reach areas using short movements, without having to remove the tool head after every stroke.

Insert ring spanners enclose the fastening element with a closed ring. They provide even contact on suitable surfaces and are available in various socket sizes and profile shapes.

Insert reversible ratchets feature a switchable ratchet function. They allow the user to change between tightening and loosening and support efficient work where movement is restricted.

Insert square drives provide a square socket for sockets or adapters. They form a flexible interface within the insert system. The socket used must match the square-drive size, screw profile and torque range.

Torque limiters restrict the transmitted force to a specified value or defined range. Once the limit is reached, the mechanism interrupts, disengages or changes the power transmission, depending on the design. This reduces the risk of subjecting screws, threads or components to excessive torque.

Torque limiters are used, for example, in screwdriving tools, assembly fixtures or repetitive production processes. They are particularly suitable wherever a specific maximum torque must be maintained without the operator having to read or set the value manually each time.

Before use, check the limiting value, direction of rotation, permissible load and intended application. A torque limiter does not replace suitable testing when documented torque control is required.

Torque measuring devices record torque, test tools or additionally measure the angle of rotation. They are used when torque is not only applied but also needs to be checked, evaluated or documented.

Torque transducers are sensors that convert an applied torque into an electrical or digital measuring signal. They can be used in measuring systems, test benches or tools and provide the basis for quantitative torque measurement.

Torque testers are used to check torque wrenches, torque screwdrivers and other torque tools. The tool is connected to the tester and subjected to a defined torque. The measured value can then be compared with the target value.

Angle measurement devices record the rotary movement or angle of rotation of a fastening element or tool. They are used in screwdriving processes where, in addition to a tightening torque, a defined angle must be applied. Depending on the system, torque and angle can be considered together.

For reliable measurements, the measuring range, resolution, installation situation and measuring direction must match the application. Measuring devices should be checked regularly in accordance with operational and technical requirements.

Torque screwdrivers are screwdriving tools that transfer a defined torque to a bolted connection. They can be operated manually, electrically or pneumatically. Depending on the design, the torque is set, limited, released or monitored electronically.

Torque screwdrivers are primarily used for repetitive screwdriving tasks where consistent tightening values and efficient operation are important. They can be used with bits, sockets or special tool sockets.

Selection depends on the torque range, screw profile, drive type, required working speed and the required level of process reliability. For reproducible results, the screwdriver, fastening element and tool socket must be matched to one another. For powered versions, also observe the specifications for the compressed-air or energy supply and regular testing.

Torque multipliers increase the input torque through a gear mechanism. This makes it possible to apply very high tightening torques without the operator having to generate the entire force directly using a long lever. The multiplier is positioned between the drive and the socket or tool head.

Torque multiplication generates a reaction torque. A reaction arm absorbs this reaction torque against a suitable, stable contact surface and prevents the tool housing from rotating. The reaction arm must rest securely against a suitable support and must not be used as an additional lever for tightening.

Torque multipliers are often combined with torque wrenches or other controlled drives. The gear ratio, input and output torque, drive sizes, available space and permissible reaction force are decisive when selecting a suitable model. Before use, the entire setup must be secured against slipping and unintentional loosening.

Mechanical torque wrenches transfer a set torque and indicate that the target value has been reached by means of a mechanical signal or defined movement. Depending on the design, the force flow is released, the handle bends or the mechanism slips.

Deflecting torque wrenches give way when the set value is reached by bending a section of the handle or head. The signal is clearly perceptible and helps the operator stop tightening at the right moment.

Click-type torque wrenches provide a tactile or audible signal when the target value is reached. The release mechanism supports repeatable work, provided that the wrench is set correctly and loaded in the intended direction.

Slipping torque wrenches interrupt further torque transmission by allowing the mechanism to slip when the set value is reached. This makes it more difficult to continue turning beyond the target value.

The terms for interchangeable tools, insert tools and sockets describe the torque wrench’s interface. Wrenches for interchangeable tools have a socket for replaceable tool heads. Wrenches for insert tools accommodate tool heads in an insert socket. Wrenches for sockets have a square drive onto which suitable sockets are attached.

When selecting a tool, consider the torque range, accuracy, direction of operation, design and connection type. Set the torque according to the specified scale or adjustment mechanism. Once the wrench releases or provides its signal, do not apply any additional force unless the design expressly permits another method of use.

Electronic torque wrenches measure torque using a sensor and display the measured value on a screen or through an electronic signal. Depending on the design, they can indicate that a target value has been reached visually, acoustically or haptically, and may store or transmit measured values.

They are suitable for applications where torque must be set, monitored or documented precisely. Some systems can also measure the angle of rotation or take several screwdriving parameters into account within a single workflow. The functions actually available depend on the specific design.

For reliable measurements, the battery status, measuring direction, measuring range and tool socket must match the application. The tool should be positioned straight and loaded in accordance with the operating instructions. Electronic functions make monitoring easier, but they do not replace regular testing and proper handling of the torque tool.