The Importance of Proper Torquing
Torquing is the process of tightening a fastener to the ideal level. Though it may not seem important on the surface, improper torquing of a fastener can lead to serious consequences as severe as damage to the entire structure, machine, or component it is installed in. Torquing to perfection is a difficult process which requires engineering-level expertise on how to handle fasteners. The effect of perfect torquing can do a lot to extend the service life of fasteners as well as the component it is used in. As a matter of fact, many premature structural failures are due to improper fastening. This blog will explore what torquing is, why it’s important, and how it is done.
The human factors in proper fastening are input torque and angle of turn. However, there are dozens of other factors that have an effect on the longevity of a fastening hold between two or more objects. Among the leading causes of failure while fastening is insufficient tightening and improper levels of preload. These both cause the fastening to fatigue more quickly and ultimately fail prematurely. Insufficient torque can, over time, cause small movements and vibrations in the assembly, eventually weakening or cracking the fastener.
While loading a nut onto a bolt, there are two types of stress the fasteners will be put under that you want to keep in mind: tension and torsion. Tension, the state of being stretched tight, is a desired stress and torsion, the action of twisting or state of being twisted, is an undesirable form of stress caused by friction. Torquing is crucial in this area, where it overpowers the friction in order to nullify the effects of torsion.
As mentioned, torque and turn are the two fundamental factors in controlling the fastening of a bolt or nut. By controlling these, you will save yourself from costly repairs and replacements. The standard process for tightening comprises turning, advancing, and torquing to the required tension of the fastener. There are four things that will also occur during the torquing process: rundown, alignment, clamping range, and post yield zone. Rundown occurs when the fastener is turned to the degree that its head touches the bearing surface. Alignment refers to when the fastener and bearing surfaces are properly aligned, achieving optimum contact. The clamping range is the constant slope of the torque-angle curve. Lastly, in the post yield zone, a portion of the components yield to achieve the required tension.
So, what are a few ways to improve your torquing abilities? There are three. The first is to determine torquing requirements by analyzing specifications like bearing surface material, fastener material, environment of operation, and the strength of the joints. Second, you should use the right tools, such as accurately-calibrated wrenches. Lastly, you can use high-end torque analyzers to store and read several lab-generated tests. In a large-scale project, you should run several variations in simulations to find the best results. To ensure proper torquing that will reliably last the service life of your machines, it’s important to use high-quality tools. For torquing equipment and much more, look to ASAP Aviation Stock.
Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, ASAP Aviation Stock offers a broad range of top quality parts for the aerospace, defense, and civil aviation industries. Our vast and diverse inventory of more than two billion new and obsolete components comprises parts such as bearing and a broad range of other fastener types. Our teams of dedicated account managers and quality assurance specialists are standing by 24/7/365, ready to help you get the parts you need. To contact us today, email sales@asapaviationstock.com or call us at 1-763-401-8616.
Share
