Precision is vital when using torque wrenches as part of your manufacturing and assembly processes. This is why regular calibration is essential for assembly and audit tools, such as torque wrenches, to ensure they continue to deliver accurate and reliable results consistently.
Torque wrench calibration starts with a visual inspection. Then, the wrench is tested at various torque settings in a controlled environment. Any deviations are adjusted to restore accuracy, and the wrench is then re-tested.
These results are then documented and a calibration certificate is issued. It is best practice to also include a label showing the calibration and next due date. This process ensures consistent, precise torque application, supporting safety and quality standards across industries until the next calibration is required.
In this article, we will explore the importance of calibrating torque wrenches, the factors that affect calibration and how often torque wrenches should be calibrated.
The importance of torque wrench calibration
When it comes to ensuring accurate and precise torque measurements, it is essential to ensure torque wrenches are regularly calibrated to ensure the correct torque is applied consistently throughout the manufacturing process.
The wear and tear of constant use can lead torque wrenches to lose their accuracy. Other factors that can affect the accuracy of torque wrenches are environmental factors, such as extreme heat or cold, as well as how they are stored.
Regular calibration can help overcome this by keeping tools accurate and within their required tolerances so they continually provide consistent results that can be relied on to ensure safety, high-quality and precise torque measurement.
Is your torque wrench calibration due? Book in with Crane today.
What happens if I don’t get my torque wrench calibrated?
If a torque wrench isn’t regularly calibrated, it can quickly drift out of accuracy. This could have catastrophic consequences that impact product quality and compromise safety standards.
In addition to maintaining accuracy, regular calibration also supports compliance with industry regulations and standards. For industries like automotive, aerospace and construction, ensuring precise torque specifications is not just a quality requirement. This means it’s a legal obligation to ensure product safety and reliability.
By investing in routine calibration, companies safeguard themselves against potential regulatory breaches and ensure they meet the standards set by industry bodies. This commitment to calibration not only enhances product quality but also boosts trust and enhances reputation within the industry.
Factors that may affect torque wrench calibration frequency
Calibration frequency can vary depending on several external factors. Understanding these can help you decide when and how often to calibrate your torque wrenches. These include:
1. Wear and tear from use
The wear and tear of constant use can lead torque wrenches to lose their accuracy. When a wrench is in frequent operation, the internal mechanisms that control torque can slowly drift out of tolerance. Heavy or repeated use, especially in high-torque applications, can cause the wrench to lose accuracy faster.
2. Environmental factors
Extreme temperatures, humidity, and even airborne contaminants can affect torque wrench accuracy. For example, exposure to extreme heat can expand metal parts, throwing off calibration, while cold environments can have the opposite effect. Humidity and moisture exposure may cause internal parts to rust or corrode, impacting performance.
3. Storage conditions
How a torque wrench is stored also affects its calibration. Ideally, it should be kept in a dry, controlled environment away from extreme temperatures. Proper storage prevents mechanical failures and ensures the tool maintains its accuracy.
4. Over-torquing or drop damage
Over-torquing can strain and damage the internal mechanisms of the wrench, leading to an immediate or gradual loss of accuracy. Similarly, dropping the tool—even when there are no visible signs of external damage—can misalign or damage the sensitive internal components or sensors. Without recalibration after such incidents, the wrenches may deliver incorrect torque readings, leading to potential safety hazards or improper assembly.
How often should my torque wrenches be calibrated?
Now that we understand how factors can affect torque calibration let’s take a closer look at how often torque wrenches should be calibrated. It’s important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to calibration frequency. It will depend on how often a torque wrench is used and how it is stored.
With that in mind, as general best practice, industry experts recommend calibrating a torque wrench every 5,000 cycles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. However, the exact frequency depends on several factors:
- Usage frequency: Wrenches used daily or in high-stress applications will need calibration more frequently than those used occasionally.
- Precision requirements: Tools used in industries with stringent accuracy standards, such as aviation or medical manufacturing, often require more frequent calibration to ensure compliance.
- Manufacturer recommendations: Many torque wrench manufacturers provide specific guidelines for calibration frequency based on typical use scenarios. Following these guidelines can ensure the tool performs reliably.
A good rule of thumb is to prioritise calibration as a proactive measure. Waiting for a torque wrench to fail or show signs of inaccuracy can lead to costly issues down the line, especially if torque application affects product safety.
Where can I get my torque wrench calibrated?
If you have a Crane torque wrench, such as a WrenchStar Multi or IQWrench3, you can rely on our global service centres to keep them precisely calibrated.
With locations in the UK, USA, and Germany, operated by expert technicians, we’re equipped to handle all your calibration needs. Our calibration services ensure your Crane wrenches meet the highest standards, with traceability to trusted third-party accreditations like UKAS or NIST.
And if you don’t yet own a Crane torque wrench, why not explore our range of high-quality options? Our wrenches offer solutions for all assembly and quality applications with high accuracy and precision backed up by dedicated service and calibration facilities.