As a precision tool often used in the manufacture of high-quality products, torque wrenches are heavily relied upon for their accuracy in the assembly process. However, if they are not cared for correctly, it can affect the calibration of the tool and lead to inaccurate measurements.
Following best practices for storing your torque wrench is essential to prevent damage, preserve its accuracy and extend the lifespan of the tool. Improper storage can lead to a number of issues including loss of calibration, rusting or even mechanical failure.
Exposure to moisture whilst being stored can cause rust, while accidental impact from dropping the wrench or storing it in overcrowded toolboxes can lead to mechanical damage. Let’s take a closer look at the best practices for storing your torque wrench.
Checklist before storing your torque wrench
Before storing your torque wrench, here are a few things to check:
- Clean the tool: Never put a dirty torque wrench away. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt, grease or debris. This helps prevent corrosion or deterioration when it’s not in use.
- Reset the torque setting: For click wrenches, after every use, reset the torque wrench to its lowest setting. This is usually the ‘0’ mark. Storing your torque wrench with a high torque setting can put continuous pressure on the internal components and can affect the accuracy.
- Remove the battery: For digital torque wrenches, it is advised that the batteries are removed from the wrench if it is to be stored for a long period time e.g. for a period of 3 months or more.
- Look for damage: Inspect the tool for any visible signs of wear, such as loose components, cracks or dents. Repair anything you find to ensure your tool stays accurate and reliable.
Best practices for storing a torque wrench
When it comes to storing torque wrenches, there are some best practices you can follow to help keep them accurate and in good working order. These include:
- Keep it protected: Store your torque wrench in a dedicated toolbox compartment or within the protective case it came with to prevent damage from accidents, dirt, dust or moisture.
- Store in a cool, dry environment: Avoid storing your torque wrench in places that are extremely hot or cold, as this can have an impact on the precision of the tool and lead to more frequent calibration being required. For digital torque wrenches this can also have an effect on battery life.
- Avoid hanging it by its handle: Hanging your torque wrench by its handle can put unnecessary pressure on the tool and its internal components. Store your torque wrench in a flat position to prevent any part of the wrench from being placed under pressure.
- Prevent damage: Place your torque wrench in a dedicated space, away from other tools that could damage it. Avoid dropping the torque wrench or placing it in close proximity to heavy vibrations, as this could also affect the calibration and accuracy of the tool.
Torque wrenches to support all industries
At Crane Electronics, we offer a selection of high-quality digital torque wrenches designed to meet the demands of diverse manufacturing industries. Precision, accuracy, and traceability are at the heart of our tools, ensuring every nut, bolt, and crucial component is fastened with confidence.
With torque ranges spanning from 10Nm to 1500Nm, our wrenches are tailored to fit your specific applications, delivering unmatched reliability and performance. When precision matters most, trust Crane Electronics to provide the tools you need to get the job done right.
Browse our range of torque wrenches at crane-electronics.com/products/torque-wrenches or for more information about our torque wrenches and your nearest distributor, please get in touch with us using the form below and we’ll be happy to help.