Originally Posted By: benjamming
baseline & repeatability
but repeatability of what? It provides repeatability and a baseline of torque, but not of bolt tension (which is what really matters with respect to joint integrity).
Given the high variability of estimating bolt tension via nut factor, I really think that worrying about torque wrench accuracy is misplaced. Even with a torque wrench with perfect accuracy, you're still getting a very rough approximation of the joint condition. I think if the difference in torque wrenches is make or break for a fastener, you need to be using something besides nut factor to measure the condition of the joint.
I would respectfully suggest that if one is really concerned about the accuracy of one's torque wrench, he/she should really look at all of the sources of errors which enter into determining joint integrity via nut factor.
Bottom line is a torque wrench is just going to provide a rough approximation. Whether it's off my 1% or 10% really doesn't matter much, IMO.
baseline & repeatability
but repeatability of what? It provides repeatability and a baseline of torque, but not of bolt tension (which is what really matters with respect to joint integrity).
Given the high variability of estimating bolt tension via nut factor, I really think that worrying about torque wrench accuracy is misplaced. Even with a torque wrench with perfect accuracy, you're still getting a very rough approximation of the joint condition. I think if the difference in torque wrenches is make or break for a fastener, you need to be using something besides nut factor to measure the condition of the joint.
I would respectfully suggest that if one is really concerned about the accuracy of one's torque wrench, he/she should really look at all of the sources of errors which enter into determining joint integrity via nut factor.
Bottom line is a torque wrench is just going to provide a rough approximation. Whether it's off my 1% or 10% really doesn't matter much, IMO.
