6 Types of Torque Wrenches Explained

Torque wrenches come in many shapes and sizes. Patented designs have changed over the years and new ideas have come onto the market. Each type of torque wrench has the same basic capabilities but can be used in different environments.

1 - The Electronic Torque Wrench

Electronic torque wrenches are programmable and can have set limits, by which the torque level is determined. A strain gauge which is attached to a torsion rod sends a signal to a transducer to determine the force of torque per unit, which is then displayed via the LED reading. They come equipped with a small chip, which contains a memory stick to save any readings. These readings can also be accessed via a computer for use on spreadsheets and documents.

2 – The Click Wrench

This is based on a socket wrench, but slightly more sophisticated.  The user can preset the level of torque using the clutch mechanism. Once the torque level is reached, the clutch then starts to slip to indicate the required level. This is a high precision design which prevents the mechanism from overreaching or over-stretching to the point of breaking. It has a shut off mechanism, so to speak.

3 – The Beam Wrench

This is a very simple and basic type of torque wrench. The wrench head and handle are separated by a lever arm. The lever arm has a certain level of elasticity which allows the torque wrench to bend slightly at the level of pressure. The indicator remains parallel with the arm when the torque wrench is not in use or no pressure is being applied. Once torque is being applied, there is a scale which moves to give a reading, much like a weighing scale with a needle pointer that indicates the weight of the product.

4 – Plumbers Wrench (No-Hub)

The plumbers wrench is specifically designed only for use with couplings on soil pipes. The T shaped handle is similar to a ratchet wrench but it has been pre-calibrated to slip when the sufficient level of torque strength is reached. This type of torque wrench is only suitable for this type of job.

5 – The Hydraulic Torque Wrench

A hydraulic torque wrench is specifically created for the purpose of exerting torque to a fastener. The pressure is applied to a nut or bolt head and the pre-calibrated torque can assist in the tightening of the said nut or bold head, provided it is lubricated correctly. Especially used in heavy situations like automobiles, this wrench exerts a lot of pressure and power.

6 – The Deflecting Beam Wrench

This type of wrench introduces the idea of torque, which is applied to a deflecting beam instead of the coil spring method. It offers high accuracy and better safety when dealing with higher levels of torque pressure. There is an audio effect which allows the user to hear when the required level of torque has been acquired. The audio and visual aspect make it a safe and very clever little mechanism.