Common issues
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| Heavy repetitive motions; awkward positions; vibration | |
Using wrenches can potentially involve heavy and/or repetitive motions, often in an awkward working position. Some power wrenches also create vibration and shock to the wrist.
Common options for improvement
Hydraulic wrenches
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| Large hydraulic wrench and power source on cart | Low profile head, in use (www.torcup.com) |
Hydraulic wrenches are commonly used in process industries, like power plants, but are seldom used or known in manufacturing and assembly operations. Hydraulic wrenches are powerful, provide a smooth force, and are precise for torque control.
Usually, the wrench head requires more clearance than a socket, but newer models are getting thin. Furthermore, depending on the situation, the hydraulic wrench can be connected to a socket with a shaft extension.
A hydraulic pump is required, typically carried in a cart, which can restrict mobility. On the other hand, the cart can be turned into a kind of workstation for using the wrench.
Powered open end wrenches
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| Pneumatic tube nut wrench (www.aimco-global.com) | |
Powered open end wrenches tube nut (up to 17 ft. lbs.)
Torque multipliers
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| Manual torque multiplier | With hold down (www.aztecbolting.com) |
Sturtevant-Richmont, www.srtorque.com
New England Turbo
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| www.kstools.com |
Impact wrenches
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| Arm to support heavy tool in awkward position |
An impact wrench is a commonly used power tool for heavy nuts. As its name implies, it creates rotational force an internal hammering mechanism, effect for turning
air gun, torque wrench
concern for effect of vibration [link future] and shock. Vibration wraps and gloves can be used, but can also increase grip diameter excessively.
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| Battery powered |
Manual impact wrenches/drivers
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| Manual impact driver | Swench (www.powerhawk.com) |
Over 4500 ft. lbs. smaller ones available
Geared extension
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