Torque Wrench Calibration

Guide to Torque Wrench Calibration

Torque wrenches are essential tools in any mechanic or engineer’s tool bag. They provide the precise torque required to tighten fasteners accurately, ensuring the integrity and safety of assemblies. However, like any precision instrument, torque wrenches need regular calibration to maintain their accuracy. In this guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of torque wrench calibration, equipping you with the knowledge to ensure your tools perform at their best.

Understanding Torque Wrench Calibration

Understanding Torque:

Torque is a measure of rotational force applied to an object, commonly expressed in pound-feet (lb-ft) or Newton-meters (Nm). Proper torque application is critical in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, to prevent under or over-tightening, which can lead to component failure or damage.

Importance of Calibration:

Torque wrenches can drift out of calibration due to regular use, environmental factors, or mishandling. Calibration ensures that the torque wrench delivers accurate torque readings, maintaining quality control standards and safety.

Calibration Methods:

Laboratory Calibration conducted by UKAS accredited calibration facilities using specialised equipment traceable to national standards. Provides the most accurate results but can be costly and time-consuming.

Frequency of Calibration:

The frequency of calibration depends on usage frequency, criticality of applications, and industry regulations. Typically, torque wrenches require calibration every 6 to 12 months for high-precision applications.

Care and Maintenance:

  • Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can affect calibration accuracy.
  • Mishandling or dropping the torque wrench may lead to calibration drift or damage.
  • Regular maintenance and proper storage can mitigate these challenges.

Investing in Quality:

Choose torque wrenches from reputable manufacturers known for precision and reliability. Quality torque wrenches often come with calibration certificates and support services for calibration and maintenance.

Here at RS, we understand that torque wrench calibration is a crucial aspect of maintaining precision and quality in mechanical and engineering applications. By understanding the importance of calibration, following proper procedures, and investing in quality tools, you can ensure that your torque wrenches deliver accurate and reliable performance, contributing to the safety and efficiency of your work.

FAQs

Why Calibrate Your Torque Tool?

Calibrating your torque tool is essential for several reasons:

  • Accuracy: Calibration ensures that your torque tool provides accurate torque readings. Inaccurate torque readings can lead to under-tightening or over-tightening of fasteners, compromising the integrity and safety of assemblies.
  • Compliance: Many industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, have strict quality control standards and regulations regarding torque application. Regular calibration ensures compliance with these standards, preventing costly rework, recalls, or potential legal liabilities.
  • Reliability: A calibrated torque tool is more reliable in critical applications where precise torque control is essential.
  • Consistency: Calibration ensures consistent torque output over time, even with regular use.
  • Warranty and Liability: Some torque tool manufacturers require regular calibration to maintain warranty coverage. Additionally, in cases of product failure or accidents, having documented calibration records can demonstrate due diligence and mitigate liability risks.
  • Cost Savings: Properly calibrated torque tools reduce the risk of rework, scrap, and warranty claims associated with improperly tightened fasteners.

Can you calibrate your own torque wrench?

Calibrating your own torque wrench can be done, but it's not always straightforward and may not be recommended for critical applications where precise torque measurements are essential. At RS, our torque wrench calibration service aims to maintain the accuracy and precision of your equipment.

What does UKAS accredited mean?

UKAS stands for the United Kingdom Accreditation Service. When an organisation or laboratory is UKAS accredited, it means that it has been assessed against internationally recognised standards to demonstrate competence, impartiality, and performance capability. This accreditation verifies that the organisation meets specific criteria and can provide reliable and accurate services, such as testing, calibration, certification, and inspection.

In essence, UKAS accreditation provides confidence in the quality and reliability of the services offered by an organization, which is essential for maintaining credibility and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

RS offers UKAS accreditation which is fully traceable to UK national standards and is recognised as the industry mark of quality internationally and an RS standard certificate which is fully traceable to UK national standards

RS Calibration Service

Most of our test and measurement equipment is available to buy with our calibration service. This means that when you purchase and receive your devices, it will be calibrated and able to be used straight away. You can also send us your equipment for re-calibration annually.

Simply select the calibrated version of the product you require and check out as normal. You will receive an email requesting any specific variables required. Products delivered within 3 days, calibrated and ready to use.

We’ll calibrate your existing equipment—no matter where you bought it—delivering top-quality service with a quick turnaround. Get an instant price and book in your equipment for collection!