Reach the highest quality standards even with safety critical applications
What about error proofing wrenches?
These types of manual torque wrenches ensure higher quality standards by providing real-time error-proofing functions and clear feedback to the operator. For these reasons, they are suitable even for safety-critical applications.
Which types of mechanical wrenches do we have?
Mechatronic wrenches
What differentiates a Mechatronic from Mechanical wrenches? The target torque is set mechanically, but now you are able to transmit data! Mechatronic wrenches typically combine mechanical and electronic technologies. Besides the “click” feedback, some LEDs are added to display the status of the tightening.
In Atlas Copco’s portfolio, there are two types of Mechatronic wrenches: Signal Only and Torque & Angle.
The Signal only type enables retrieval of data as Mechanical wrenches with Microswitch Adaptor included, but completely wireless. Data are managed by a controller that is able to send and receive information from customers’ MES. • Torque & Angle type allows the measurement of torque and angle thanks to the transducer and the gyroscope, increasing the value of LEDs feedback. These features open the possibility for full traceability with real-timer error-proofing and detections of overtightening and loosening. Moreover, with the • Torque & Angle version, it is also possible to track if the operator clicked the same bolt more than once, and even recognize who the operator was!
Controllers
With such a wrench, you will need a controller which can manage data from MWR wrenches enabling wireless factory automation. Focus 61 is able to manage data from and to customers’ MES, and program your tightening's with a window of approval for torque and angle depending on the wrench version connected. In addition to the Focus 61 features, with the high-end controller Power Focus 6000 you have the advantage of managing up to 6 different Atlas Copco tools through Virtual Stations. Through Power Focus 6000, manual tools now are part of the Atlas Copco Ecosystem, with one common Platform and intuitive configuration.
Electric wrenches
Here’s the STwrench: a solid wrench, without inner moving parts. There is no mechanical adjustment to the target torque, but it is all set by the software. Mechanical feedback is not mandatory, and you may have more LEDs or vibration feedbacks. Different from what we saw previously, STwrench is perfect when a measurement is needed. Electronic wrenches have production and quality strategies, ensuring its specific measurement function: residual torque reading, for example.
Most of the Mechatronic wrenches’ error-proofing features are included in Electronic wrenches. The big difference here is its embedded Open Protocol that enables direct communications.
Stay tuned to discover more about Manual Torque Wrench Solutions! Follow the Manual Tightening Learning Journey to learn about mechanical, mechatronic and electronic wrenches.