The automotive manufacturing sector arguably has a greater need than any other for effective torque control. This is due to the speed of production, the increasing demands of customers for quality products and the product liability implications of safety critical joints. No more clearly is this shown than at the Bentley Motors' plant in Crewe where the renowned marque is demonstrating the benefits of reliance upon torque control products from Crane Electronics. These illustrate Bentley's commitment to safety and quality, compliance with legislation of documentation for safety critical joints and adherence to strict international standards.

Bentley Motors' plant has been using equipment manufactured by Crane Electronics, a world leader in the development and production of audit equipment for torque testing and management, since 1996. Equipment was initially used in the company's laboratory areas. Its use was then extended to mobile testing of all air and battery tooling on the production lines of the V8 engine and the Bentley Arnage model.

For production lineside testing, Bentley Motors purchased five Crane MTTS (Mobile Torque Test Stations), with one being located in the engine build area and four in the final assembly areas. Delivered in May 2003, they are used to ensure that every mechanical production tool is regularly checked for general wear and tear, or to advise whether its performance is being impaired by any other external influences. The tools are then adjusted, with the whole procedure is carried out quickly and accurately to ensure minimal disruption to production process.

Since the introduction in 2003, the MTTS have demonstrated their ability to meet Bentley Motors' stringent criteria for accuracy and performance. As a consequence, the company has made further investment for the production line of the Bentley Continental GT and its calibration department.

Eight high specification ProWrench Opta digital wrenches are now used to check and document safety critical fastenings, such as steering rack bolts; brake pipes, pedal box assembly and seat belt restraints, on the Bentley Continental GT. These were specified on account of their excellent service turnaround times compared with other manufacturers, as well as their performance.

In the calibration department, all data collectors and SPC tools have been upgraded to Crane Electronics' TorqueStar Opta models.

As a major supplier to automotive manufacturers throughout the world, Crane has worked closely with the industry to develop safety critical torque control and management products that reach their specific requirements. As the stringent requirements of the automotive industry are passed along the supply chain, Crane Electronics' expertise and new product development capability will become even more important. Bentley Motors is an excellent example of best practice in the field of safety critical torque management and control.