Torque wrenches, like any other tool or piece of equipment, should be regularly inspected and maintained to maximize their usable lifespan and avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Staying on top of this maintenance helps you avoid downtime and will save you money, as it will prevent you from having to replace your torque wrenches earlier than necessary.
Here’s an overview of what you should know about torque wrench maintenance to keep them in great shape for years to come.
A brief look at torque wrench repair and maintenance
Torque wrenches should at least be regularly inspected to check if there are any signs of wear or defects.
Over time, a torque wrench will start to wear down with use. The more it’s used, the faster it will wear or lose its calibration. This is why it’s so important for you to monitor the approximate total hours the tool is used, or the number of cycles it goes through per day. These are the benchmarks used to determine when torque wrenches should be repaired or serviced, so a failure to track them will make it difficult for you to keep the tool in good condition.
Most manufacturers recommend to have the torque wrench repaired and serviced after approximately 100,000 cycles, but others will recommend more frequent service. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations provided in the handbook for the tool.
When inspecting the tool, pay special attention to the ratchet on the wrench for signs of wear, and keep it clean and lubricated. All of the screws on the ratchet should be tight to keep it in place, and the ratchet should easily spin when you turn it. If you do not replace parts on the wrench that get worn out and stay on top of your inspections and lubrications, this will increase the amount of wear that occurs during use and significantly shorten the lifespan of the tool.
There are also steps you can take to prevent a buildup of dust, grime and chemicals from occurring. Clean the wrench regularly with a dry cloth. Make sure you store it away properly in an area where it will not be exposed to these substances, such as in a case or a drawer. Avoid using cleaning fluids or solvents that could corrode the tool or damage its internal lubrication.
In some cases, you may need to take the tool apart to properly clean or maintain it. When this is necessary, make sure you carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to do so, and then carefully put the tool back together using those same directions so you do not affect its usability.
Finally, treat the tool with respect. Remember that it is a precision tool, and it’s a very important tool in your arsenal. Prioritize its maintenance and use it the way it’s supposed to be used.
Want to know more about torque wrench maintenance and repair or how you can maintain other tools in your collection? Contact us today at Hydraulic Power Sales Inc.