Types And Sizes of The Torque Wrench

Although torque wrenches are mainly used in automotive appliances, they are also ideal for tasks that require a certain amount of torque in nuts or bolts. Knowing how to select the best type and size can be quite rewarding as you work on your various tasks. Typically, there are five types of torque wrenches with having each its own merits and demerits.

The Click type torque wrench

It’s the standard type of torque wrench available in the market. This torque wrench derives its names from the audible click it produces once the user attains the ideal amount of torque, making them relatively easy to use. Modern click torque wrenches are not only cheap by also very accurate, just like the beam-style wrench. This makes them ideal for all skill levels. However, the click-type torque wrench doesn’t regulate over-tightening since you can further turn the wrench after tightening.

Beam-type torque wrench

This fantastic-looking wrench includes a long beam attached to its head and acts as the plumb line.

Besides, it serves as a scale to the handle on the lower side. The handle is aimed to flex as you increase the amount of torque, thus shifting the scale positioned under the pointer slightly. Reading the measurement from the tool is the same way as using a standard weight scale. The pointer’s position on the scale shows the accurate amount of the applied torque at present. These torque wrenches come in a straightforward design and use advanced physics to ensure the user gets the most accurate readings.

They are easy to maintain, and if taken care of, they are the most durable torque wrenches you can own.

However, it is sometimes difficult to accurately read from beam-style torque wrenches, making them less convenient than click-style wrenches.

Split-Beam torque wrench

It’s technically a particular type of beam torque wrench. It has relatively fewer components when compared with the common clicker wrench type. Most of its critical parts have been welded together, making it ideal for commercial purposes. It’s equally accurate to a standard bean torque type, although it has a longer lifespan. It uses a two-beam while operating, and the main beam comes with a more robust handle where you apply the torque. The second bean functions like an indicator beam since it is partially joined to the head. Most split beams come with a lock level and a set knob used for setting the ideal torque value. Excellent split beam torque comes with a scale window and sometimes an audible click that alerts you when you reach the desired torque.

Digital type torque wrench

This type of torque wrench is pre-calibrated to ensure accurate readings. These torque wrenches are the ideal choice when you’re looking for an efficient and convenient wrench. Most of these digital type torque wrenches make it possible for you to preset several torque settings and can retain the settings for multiple uses. The only limitation about these digital torque wrenches is that they are the most expensive torque wrenches hence not ideal for beginners. They also require batteries in some models.

Slip-type torque wrenches

Although they come in straightforward modeling, they are very effective. This is because they are aimed to lose grip whenever you attain the preferred torque. This way, you can do away with the risks of over-torquing.

It is not only cheap but also durable. Its head has teeth that determine the torque that will occur on the slip point wrench. The only limitation about this type of torque wrench is that it is impossible to monitor the present torque, and it can’t handle over 100Nm torque.

Torque Wrench Sizes

A torque wrench size determines the type of tasks you can use it for. Although there is always an overlay in the functionality of two consecutive torque wrench sizes, every drive size is designed for a particular task. Below are the various socket sizes in ascending order.

• 1/4-Inch: Typically, this is the smallest drive size and ideal for small machines such as motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, and the likes. The 1/4-inch drive is also ideal for operating small electronic devices such as HVAC devices, valve covers, and small automotive fasteners.
• 3/8-Inch: It’s typically the most miniature drive size ideal for any major automotive repair. It is particularly ideal for tightening spark plugs. It is the most popular drive size as long as torque wrenches are concerned.
• 1/2-Inch: It is the default drive size whenever we are discussing torque wrenches. It’s the ideal drive size for various torquing tasks such as installing lug nuts and working on various automotive suspensions.
• 3/4 to 1-Inch: It’s the largest, and unless you are working with giant machines, this drive size isn’t ideal for everyday uses.