How to Use a Hydraulic Torque Wrench

A hydraulic torque wrench is an industrial-strength torque wrench which has the capability to exert powerful levels of torque to a large bolt head. Hydraulic torque wrenches are usually mainly used on industrial pipe work, oil rigging, and other massive industrial structures. Hydraulic torque wrenches come with a hose and a power pack which attaches to the wrench to remove or tighten large bolts. They also come with impact sockets which are strengthened for use with hydraulic torque wrenches.

Step 1 - Attach the Pieces

Your hydraulic torque wrench will arrive dismantled and you will have to assemble it in order to use it. Attach the hose to the power pack and the other end to the hydraulic torque wrench. Tighten any fittings and secure a solid connection between all the three pieces of the hydraulic torque wrench set. Sequencing is vitally important and you shouldn’t alter the set up as explained in the guidelines.

Step 2 - Adjust

All hydraulic torque wrenches will have adjustable settings in which you can set the correct torque level for the particular project you are using it on. If your particular project has a predetermined torque level you should be aware of it and set the controls accordingly. If there is no specific torque setting advised, start with the lowest setting and work up.

Be careful not to over tighten any heavy bolts or nuts because they will be likely to shear or the threads will break. You can acquire a torque conversion chart to assist you with proper use of your hydraulic torque wrench.

Step 3 - Attach the Hydraulic Torque Wrench

The hydraulic torque wrench will have a large hole on one side of it, which looks like the exact shape of a hex bolt or nut. If your hydraulic wrench is slightly different (and this will happen, depending on makes, types and manufacturers) just follow the instructions as laid out in the user manual. Always make sure you fully understand the operating instructions for power tools and power machinery before you use it.

Step 4 - Use the Hydraulic Torque Wrench

Once you have attached the hydraulic torque wrench to the pipe nuts, make sure the gasket is correctly aligned and placed. There will not always be a gasket needed, but for some projects it will be essential. Press the two pipes together as far as you can (unless this is done by machinery) and then start the hydraulic wrench. The pressure regulator should be loosened to make any final adjustments of your hydraulic torque wrench.

Again, you will need to be familiar with your own model of hydraulic torque wrench to perform this adjustment correctly. Turn on the hydraulic torque wrench and allow it to reach the correct level of torque. Once it does this it will automatically stop and you can release the torque wrench mechanism and remove it.