At the Triumph motorcycle factory in Hinckley, Crane Electronics' TorqueStar Opta torque indicators and data collectors are being used to calibrate click wrenches and power tools used in assembly operations. Tools are checked for accuracy and repeatability using a custom designed torque management system built around the TorqueStar Opta and a bar code scanning facility.

Any tools identified as out of tolerance are removed from the assembly area for adjustment, repair or replacement. Six TorqueStar Optas are mounted on trolleys that were designed by Triumph for use within the assembly areas and also carry a printer, scanner and Crane UTA stationary transducers.

The trolleys are moved around assembly areas where in total, some 1500 wrenches and power tools are in daily use. Triumph's primary requirement was to be able to verify that each tool had been checked and that a conformance label could be issued which would accompany the paperwork associated with each tool. A bar code label has been generated for each tool containing information including its serial number, required accuracy and the assembly task that it performs. Tools are graded by Triumph depending on how critical the fastening that they tighten.

Each TorqueStar Opta trolley is taken to the assembly area where the tools are in use and, using the stationary transducer, the calibration check is performed. The unit then prints a label to a serial printer that shows tool serial number, test results and next calibration due date. The solution provided by Crane Electronics for Triumph has included the scanner. This is proving a highly flexible and practical means of checking such a large number of different wrenches and tools, each performing different fastening tasks and having different calibration requirements.

Readings are provided to Triumph's engineers on a clear easy to read LCD display of the TorqueStar Opta unit. It is extremely quick and convenient to use with the icon driven menu structure allowing the operator to carry out the necessary checks on the tools with just two presses of the unit's function keys.

In the tough assembly environment at Triumph, the high strength injection moulded casing of the TorqueStar Opta and its protective rubberised trim are also important features for durability in use.

Matthew Hazelwood-Smith says: "TorqueStar Opta provides us with essential tool calibration information and is helping us to ensure that high quality standards are maintained."