An electronics manufacturing company uses torque testers along with benched mounted torque sensors to audit 150+ pneumatic torque tools on a daily basis. Each pneumatic tool has bar-code on it, which identifies the tool. A unique tool test (torque setting and tolerance setting) is set-up for each pneumatic tool and stored inside the PTT torque meter.
The operator scans the pneumatic tool with a bar code reader, and the preset tool test for that individual pneumatic tool is automatically displayed on the PTT torque meter. Using a run down adapter mounted in-line between the tool drive and the BMX torque sensor, the operator checks the torque output for that pneumatic tool. After each run down, the run down adapter should be completely backed-up.
The operator must conduct five run downs with the pneumatic tool. If the operator sees a “green light” displayed on the PTT after each run down, the tool has passed the test and is authorized for use. The torque readings from the test are stored on the PTT. Then the quality manager downloads the data to their network for archiving the test results, which fulfills their ISO procedure.
The torque testing system that the engineers implemented contained a PTT torque meter, along with a couple BMX torque sensors, run down adapters and a bar code reader. The torque testing system makes ISO documentation faster and easier and enables operators to ensure product quality, safety and reliability promptly. The manufacturer uses three “torque testing systems” and each system is mounted on top of a portable toolbox. The engineers designed fixtures to mount the equipment as well as a podium to hold an instruction book.
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 torqued can vibrate loose and excessive torque can strip threaded fasteners. Using a quality torque tester has become increasingly important for many companies to ensure that proper torque is being applied and maintains gauge requirements associated with the ISO 9001 Quality Standard.
How are you testing and monitoring torque tools at your facility?
