Finding the proper hand torque screwdriver for your torque application may seem like a daunting and confusing process at times. There are many, many options to choose from when selecting a torque screwdriver. Which tool truly fits my fastening application? That’s the key question you are looking to answer.
When you are unsure of the various differences between screwdrivers, selecting the low cost tool option is the easiest choice. It’s an easy justification. If the torque tool is not adequate or fails, the excuse of …”oh well, the tool didn’t require much investment”… is our acceptable rationalization.
Taking the time to educate yourself and understanding the various torque screwdriver options available is worth the investment. How critical is torque for your fastening application? A lack of torque control with a communications satellite or a cell tower can be a costly mistake. Obviously with an automobile, aircraft or missile, the failure to properly tighten a fastener or bolt to the correct torque specification can have potential catastrophic results. Therefore, is a quality torque screwdriver worth your investment?
The cam-over philosophy of each Mountz hand torque screwdriver prevents a fastener or bolt from being under and over tightened. These torque tools are ideal for fastening applications where over-torque conditions are not tolerated. As a quality control tool, the torque screwdriver allows any user to deliver the correct torque with confidence regardless of task and operator skill level.
Preset screwdrivers are typically used for production applications where there is one torque setting required and you need to prevent incidental or operator tampering of the torque setting, while adjustable screwdrivers offer different setting options for torque applications that require more than one torque value.
An adjustable torque screwdriver features an external adjustment torque scale, which allows an operator to quickly and accurately adjust the torque setting on the tool as needed for different applications. The adjustable torque screwdrivers offered by Mountz are ideal for field service or production applications. A single torque driver can cover a wide variety of fastening applications due to its broad adjustable torque range.
The design action of the cam-over torque screwdriver is such that when the tool reaches its selected torque value the mechanism disengages from the drive thus limiting the torque applied. Also, the thrust bearings insure that the torque setting is independent of any end load applied by the operator. Designed for variety of industries like communications, electronics, instruments, medical, aerospace, and other field service and maintenance environments, a Mountz adjustable screwdriver ensures proper torque control. A quality adjustable screwdriver typically features a ring or bezel device that allows an operator to press down to adjust the torque setting and then locks into place once released, preventing incidental torque adjustment.
When choosing an adjustable torque driver from an industrial supplier, use some caution. A low cost tool is often a short term solution. It becomes a long term, irritating expense that effects quality and performance. Most torque screwdrivers feature a “ball clutch” design. This is where a ball bearing rolls over or hops over a static bar or cam position. The design limits the quality and life of the tool. It also causes the screwdriver to be out of calibration sooner, which increases the service cost of the tool. Another trait commonly seen with a poorly designed screwdriver is a loose drive shaft or bit holder.
The radial cam design of the Mountz adjustable torque screwdriver allows for a smooth cam action with minimal wear on the tool. This provides precision torque control and extends the operating life cycle of the tool before routine maintenance is required.
Designed and manufactured to meet or exceed the accuracy and repeatability requirements of ISO6789: 2003, Mountz offers a couple of adjustable torque screwdriver options that range from 10 inch-ounces to 80 inch-pounds. Offering the most complete array of torque screwdrivers available on the market today, Mountz provides adjustable screwdrivers in different configurations to accommodate the various torque applications.
– Micro Torque Screwdrivers: Color coded anodized aluminum handles allow for differentiation of models.
– Ergo Micro Torque Screwdrivers: Ergonomic rubber hand grip and ESD compliant.
Torque tools go out of calibration with use. Calibrating a torque tool is a fine-tuning process of bringing the tool back within its tolerance. Torque testers can also be used for quick tools tests on the line or in the lab to determine whether torque tools are holding a given setting.
Regular torque calibration of a hand screwdriver ensures accuracy, repeatable tool performance, and adherence to international standards. Torque testing also guarantees the torque equipment is operating to peak performance and can highlight any potential tooling problems before they arise perhaps due to tool wear or broken components.
Using a quality torque screwdriver makes a safer world through accuracy and precision. Controlling torque is essential for companies to ensure their product’s quality, safety and reliability isn’t compromised. The failure of a three-cent fastener that isn’t properly tightened can lead to catastrophic or latent failures. Fasteners that are insufficiently fastened can vibrate loose and excessive torque can strip threaded fasteners.
Need assistance with a fastening application, request an appointment for a torque tool demonstration by a Mountz representative.
