Manufacturing facilities are equipped with various torque tools for handling all the different fastening applications at that site. Hand and assembly power tools are being operated daily. Performing tool calibrations in the lab and torque audits in the production area requires a multitude of torque sensors and measuring equipment.
Often when quality engineers or calibration technicians are assigned to perform torque tests on any given day, it will require a torque tester and more than one torque sensor to be used. The different tools and torque requirements place a demand to have various torque sensors available with different torque range capacities. The process of plugging and unplugging different sensors to the tester and setting up the proper tool test is time-consuming. Also, if the incorrect sensor is selected for measuring the torque output of a tool, the potential for bad data or a sensor being overtorqued and damaged can occur. Adding some simple accessories to the torque measuring process can reduce these unneeded expenses and help automate it.
The Mountz LTT and PTT are torque analyzers are designed for measuring torque and calibrating tools. The Multiplexer is an optional accessory for the PTT or LTT instruments. It allows up to 4 torque sensors to be the connected to the torque analyzer simultaneously. This eliminates the need to plug and unplug sensors allowing operators to keep their most critical Mountz torque sensors available at all times. The torque tester powers the Multiplexer so no additional power source is required. When connected to the torque analyzer the Multiplexer detects which sensors are connected and then downloads the identity and calibration data. LED’s on the right side of the sensor connection will light-up indicating which torque sensor is currently selected.
There are two means to select a torque sensor. A manual and automatic process. For selecting torque sensor manually on the tester, press the Mix “Soft” key and it will provide a list of currently connected torque sensors. The user can scroll through the list of sensors and press “enter” to select a model.
The sensor selection can also be done automatically using a special tool test feature with the LTT or PTT and a bar code reader. Assembly areas with large tool inventories, the auto selection process saves time and increases productivity. Information is entered for the parameters to be tested including torque sensor selection. Assign a name and save the test. Print a bar code label and place it on the tool. With a bar code reader a technician can scan and instantly bring up the correct torque test and sensor combination for a particular torque tool. This automation process requires a little set-up in advance, but it helps prevent operator errors, reduces complexity and saves time.
Benefits for Automating the Torque Testing Process
- Reduce expenses with labor and time
- Eliminate operator error
- Improve productivity, consistency, quality and accuracy
- Improve repeatability of test results
Using a quality torque measuring equipment 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.
Adding a multiplexer makes it simple and easy to switch between different torque sensors as needed for different torque testing applications. Using both a bar code reader and the Multiplexer device with LTT or PTT torque testing system will help automate the torque testing process. Improve and automate your torque testing process, request quote today.
