Torque Wrench A to Z Guide

David Valle

David Valle |

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There are many different types of torque wrenches. While some are created with only one purpose, other wrenches have multiple uses. Knowing the components of wrenches will help you understand how to best use them.

24 Things in This Torque Wrench A to Z Guide

1. How does a torque wrench work?

A torque wrench measures torque and applies a precise, specific amount of torque to fasteners such as nuts or bolts.

2. Why should a torque wrench be used?

A torque wrench should be used because it is able to ensure the proper torque when one is tightening bolts or nuts.

3. Can a torque wrench be used to loosen a bolt?

No, they can’t. Torque wrenches are specifically for tightening.

4. How is a socket wrench used?

Socket wrenches are used by turning the socket clockwise to tighten fasteners and counter-clockwise to loosen them.

5. What are adjustable wrenches used for?

Adjustable wrenches are used to loosen and tighten nuts and bolts by turning a screw that is located at the wrench’s head. Adjustable wrenches can be used on nuts and bolts of various sizes.

6. How do you use a wrench?

First, open the jaw of the wrench by turning the screw. The opening needs to be a bit wider than the size of the nut. Next, slide the open jaw onto the nut, and turn the screw until the jaw is clamping the nut tightly. Finally, when you are done loosening or tightening the nut, loosen the screw to detach the wrench from the nut.

7. What are socket wrenches for?

Socket wrenches are used to loosen or tighten nuts or bolts.

8. Is a spanner the same as a wrench?

A spanner is a type of torque wrench. However, it differs from most wrenches in that it is adjustable and can work with nuts and bolts of many sizes.

9. When was the first wrench made?

The first wrench ever made was the monkey wrench in the mid-19th century. It was created by inventor Charles Moncky in the year 1858.

10. What is a spanner in the works?

A spanner in the works (or a monkey wrench in the works) is anything that inhibits a plan or goal from succeeding.

11. How did the monkey wrench get its name?

The term monkey is defined in the World English Dictionary as “a small, light piece of equipment designed to fulfill an immediate need.” Because this type of wrench is a convenient, easy-to-use item, giving it the name “monkey wrench” suits it.

12. Which things make a wrench a monkey wrench?

To be a monkey wrench, a tool has to be adjustable and the surface of its jaws has to be smooth. Monkey wrenches are also known for being the ideal tool for turning bolts and nuts, so the ease of loosening and tightening fasteners must be the tool’s primary feature.

13. What is the difference between a monkey wrench and a pipe wrench?

When it comes to appearance, the main difference between the two wrenches is the surface of the jaws: the pipe wrench has teeth, but the surface of a monkey wrench is smooth. Also, when it comes to usability, one is able to do much more with a pipe wrench than he can with a monkey wrench.

14. What is a pipe wrench?

This is an adjustable wrench that comes equipped with a rounded surface that turns fittings and soft iron pipes.

15. What is a plumber’s wrench?

A plumber’s wrench is a type of pipe wrench that is used to rotate plumbing pipes. Without needing to engage a nut, the plumber’s wrench is able to grip easily and forcefully.

16. What is a basin wrench used for?

Basin wrenches are used to turn fasteners that are located in confined spaces and would otherwise be very difficult or virtually impossible to reach with other types of wrenches.

17. What is a lock nut wrench used for?

Lock nut wrenches are used to remove one inch to three inch nuts. This type of wrench is typically used on sink strainers, toilet connections, and slip nuts.

18. How do you calibrate a torque wrench?

There are two different ways one can calibrate a torque wrench. They are weight calibration and fish scale calibration.

19. How does a hydraulic torque wrench work?

Hydraulic torque wrenches use hydraulics to exert torque on nuts and bolts to ensure that the fasteners are properly tightened or loosened.

20. What is a beam torque wrench?

This is a unique wrench that allows torque to be precisely measured in a wide array of applications.

21. What is an impact wrench used for?

Impact wrenches deliver a high amount of torque by storing energy then quickly shooting it out.  Even though this type of wrench is very powerful, the user does not have to exert more than the standard amount of force.

22. What is a breaker bar used for?

As its name implies, the breaker bar is used to “break loose” fasteners that have been fastened on extremely tightly. It is able to do this because its longer length allows it to generate a great amount of torque even if the user is only applying a standard amount of force.

23. What is a torque wrench used for?

Torque wrenches are used to apply specific amounts of torque to nuts and bolts.

24. What is a San Angelo bar used for?

The San Angelo digging bar is used for the prying and digging of large rocks and dirt. Because it is made from steel, it is built to last and, when utilized, can withstand even the hardest of rocks.

Conclusion

From torque wrenches to monkey and impact wrenches, the handyman has a wide choice of tools that can help him accomplish any job. Though not all wrenches are created equal, each of them has something unique to offer. Whether your task is applying torque or loosening a bolt, there’s a wrench that’s up to the task.

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