6 Types of Torque Wrenches Explained

torque wrench
  • 1 hours
  • Beginner
  • 10-100

Torque wrenches come in many shapes and sizes. Patented designs have changed over the years, and new ideas have come onto the market. Each type of torque wrench has the same basic capabilities, but you want to choose a specific model for different projects.

1. Electronic Torque Wrench

Electronic torque wrenches are programmable and can have set limits, by which the torque level is determined. A strain gauge attached to a torsion rod sends a signal to a transducer to determine the force of torque per unit, which is then displayed via the LED reading. They come equipped with a small chip that contains a memory stick to save any readings. These readings can also be accessed on your computer for use on spreadsheets and documents.

2. Click Wrench

This is based on a socket wrench, but slightly more sophisticated. The user can preset the level of torque using the clutch mechanism. Once the torque level is reached, the clutch then starts to slip to indicate the required level. The click torque wrench is a high-precision design that prevents the mechanism from overreaching or over-stretching to the point of breaking. Basically this is a shut-off mechanism.

3. Beam Wrench

torque wrench

This is a simple and basic type of torque wrench. The wrench head and handle are separated by a lever arm. The lever arm has a certain level of elasticity that allows the beam torque wrench to bend slightly at the level of pressure. The indicator remains parallel with the arm when the torque wrench is not in use or when no pressure is applied. Once torque is applied, there is a scale that moves to give a reading, much like a weighing scale with a needle pointer that indicates the weight of the product.

4. Plumber's Wrench (No-Hub)

The plumber's wrench is specifically designed only for use with couplings on soil pipes. The T-shaped handle is similar to a ratchet wrench, but it has been pre-calibrated to slip when the sufficient level of torque strength is reached.

5. Hydraulic Torque Wrench

torque wrench

A hydraulic torque wrench is specifically created to exert torque to a fastener. The pressure is applied to a nut or bolt head, and the pre-calibrated torque can assist in tightening the nut or bolt head, provided it is lubricated correctly. This wrench exerts a lot of pressure and power, especially when used when working on automobiles.

6. Deflecting Beam Wrench

This type of wrench introduces the idea of torque applied to a deflecting beam rather than through the coil spring method. It offers high accuracy and better safety when dealing with higher levels of torque pressure. There is an audio effect that allows the user to hear when the required level of torque has been reached. The audio and visual aspect make it a safe and clever little mechanism.

>> How to Use a Torque Wrench