Even though mechanical torque wrenches have some slight disadvantages compared to digital wrenches, they are still widely used in production environments. Subject to regular and frequent testing, mechanical torque wrenches represent a cost efficient solution for certain production areas. Crane Electronics, the market leader in torque control products, has devised a Torque Test Bench which enables manufacturers to test their mechanical wrenches and automatically document the results of these tests. Removing the need to record the readings and calibrations on paper can lead to considerable savings in man hours during a shift.

The torque test bench is very simple to use. It permits up to six stationary transducers to be mounted on it and can cover a torque range of 0.04 Nm to 1695 Nm. To test a wrench, the adjustable wheel housing is moved along the bed of the test bench until the wrench handle sits on the cradle. Torque is then applied manually via a gear box with the transducer being connected to a TorqueStar Opta. This torque readout device indicates the results of the tests numerically on a display and as well as HI/OK/LO via LEDs. The gearbox allows high torques to be applied but ensures that the operator does not exceed the rate of increase for the torque specified. The design of the test bench also allows easy interchange between transducers.

The torque readings indicate whether a wrench falls within the torque limits or not. If a wrench fails it can be recalibrated on the test bench to match the desired torque specification. The torque readout digitally records all the readings and these can be downloaded to PC or the company's network.