For novices who are new to torque wrench, mastering the correct use points can not only ensure the quality of work, but also avoid tool damage and safety hazards. The use of torque wrench requires starting from preliminary preparation, operating specifications to subsequent maintenance, and gradually accumulating experience.
Preparation before use is the basis. First of all, according to the specific work needs, choose a torque wrench of appropriate specifications. Different bolts and nuts have different requirements for tightening torque. If the range of the torque wrench does not match the actual needs, it may not achieve the tightening effect if it is too small, and it is easy to damage the parts if it is too large. After confirming the specifications of the wrench, carefully check whether the appearance of the tool is damaged, such as whether the handle is cracked, whether the dial is clear, and whether the socket head is worn. At the same time, it is also necessary to check whether the function of the torque wrench is normal, such as whether the torque value can be accurately set, whether the ratchet mechanism is flexible, etc., to avoid affecting the work due to problems with the tool itself.
Setting the torque value is a key step. The torque wrench usually has a dial or a digital display, and the required torque value can be set by rotating the adjustment knob or pressing the button. During operation, make sure that the adjusted value is exactly the same as the job requirements. Any slight deviation may lead to improper tightening of the parts. After setting, it is necessary to confirm whether the value is accurate again to prevent setting errors caused by misoperation. For torque wrenches with preset functions, a "click" sound will be emitted when the set torque is reached. Newbies should be familiar with this prompt sound as an important basis for judging whether the torque meets the standard.
The posture and force control during operation should not be ignored. When using a torque wrench, you should keep your body stable, stand firmly with both feet, hold the wrench handle near the tail end with one hand, and hold the front end of the wrench with the other hand to better control the direction and force of the force. The force process should be smooth and slow, and avoid sudden force or violent pulling. Otherwise, it will not only be difficult to accurately control the torque, but also may damage the internal structure of the wrench. During the tightening process, always pay attention to the prompts of the torque wrench. When you hear a "click" sound or see that the set value has been reached, stop exerting force immediately to prevent over-tightening.
Different operating methods are required when tightening different types of bolts and nuts. For smaller bolts and nuts, since the required torque is small, the force should be more gentle during operation to avoid stripping or breaking of the bolts due to excessive force; for larger bolts and nuts, you can pre-tighten them with an ordinary wrench before tightening, and then use the torque wrench for precise tightening, which can not only improve efficiency but also reduce the difficulty of operation. At the same time, pay attention to the material of the bolts and nuts. For parts made of softer materials such as aluminum alloy, the torque should be strictly controlled to prevent deformation of the parts due to excessive torque.
During use, you should also develop the habit of regular inspections. After completing several tightening operations, stop and check whether the setting value of the torque wrench has changed, especially in the case of continuous use or high force, the value may shift. At the same time, observe whether there is any abnormality in the appearance of the wrench, such as whether the handle is loose, whether the socket head and the bolt fit tightly, etc. Once a problem is found, stop using it immediately and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and accuracy of subsequent operations.
After use, correct storage and maintenance are equally important. First, adjust the torque value of the torque wrench to the minimum range, which can reduce the pressure on the internal spring and other parts and extend the service life of the tool. Then wipe the wrench clean, remove the oil and dust on the surface, and store it in a dry and ventilated environment to avoid moisture and rust. If it is not used for a long time, you can apply a proper amount of lubricating oil to the movable parts of the wrench to prevent the parts from being affected by oxidation or dryness.
Novices need to pay attention to every link when using the torque wrench, from preparation to operation, to maintenance, and gradually accumulate experience. Only by mastering these key points can the role of the torque wrench be fully utilized, ensuring the high-quality completion of the operation and extending the service life of the tool.
