Assemblers know that practice makes perfect when it comes to properly operating a fastening tool. They also know the importance of tool preparation, which includes torque testing and calibration. Both practices ensure that a tool always applies the correct amount of torque to a threaded fastener during installation.
“Regular testing and calibration are becoming increasingly important despite technological advances in fastening tools,” claims John Reynertson, COO and vice president of engineering for Sturtevant Richmont. “Wear of the tool’s measuring element due to friction, vibration, abuse and fatigue negatively affect the torque calibration of even the most advanced tools. Torque testers are still needed as the traceable reference to verify the tool’s accuracy.”