Torque tool testing: how to inspect bolted joints

With the help of a new web-based programme, users can store measurement settings for individual torque tools and benefit from step-by-step guidance through the measurements.

Key highlights

• New software generation makes operating torque tool testing systems simple
• Web-based programme that stores measurement settings for individual torque tools
• Step-by-step guidance through the measurements
• Access test records and tool histories via a local server

Bolts are some of the most common fixtures in any manufacturing industry. It’s a reliable, strong connection that is adjustable, customisable and, if necessary, reversible. Bolted joints serve many purposes and in the modern day, they are subject to strict safety regulations for the critical structural roles they play in many different applications. Therefore, it’s essential that the fastening process is done correctly. In order to assure this, growing numbers of manufacturers require their suppliers to provide documentation of the fastening processes of bolted joints. Placement of the fastener, correct adjustment and reliable functioning of the tool are just some of the factors involved in the assessments made with torque tool testing systems. These ensure that specific requirements are met. In any manufacturing space, there will be an array of tools which need to be organised for inspection. The Kistler Group now brings a new solution to do this efficiently, as well as providing a method for transferring the data to a database where it can be retrieved in case of a recourse claim.

The web-based CEUS 10 software, which complements Kistler’s proprietary cerTEST system, is that solution. It’s Kistler’s latest development of their ‘Central Evaluation Unit for all Systems’ (CEUS). With CEUS 10 comes an emphasis on “intuitive operability and easy-to-understand test records.” CEUS 10 has the capacity for cerTEST users to store different measurement settings, which can then be accessed easily whenever they are needed. This means that measurement parameters for individual tools only ever need to be set once. The programme also guides users in a step-by-step fashion through the measurements. Measurement history for each tool is then stored automatically in test records on a local server.

 “To meet increasing safety requirements, more and more tool developers and suppliers in the automotive industry and many other sectors are opting for inspection systems such as cerTEST,” according to Dr. Gerald Zeinert, Head of Development for CEUS 10 at Kistler. He goes on to explain the benefits of the new generation: “The new software generation offers decisive advantages for system users as well as quality managers: both the measurements themselves and the resultant records are so easy to understand that operators don’t need to have any special experience.”

Available in various languages, for both the programme as well as the records, traceability of tools and parts is ensured, even across international borders.