Welcome to the Atlas Copco Electric Tool Buying Guide. This resource can assist you in learning more about the available features and functions of our electric toque multipliers so that you can make an informed decision about which tool to use for your project. If this guide doesn't answer all your questions, please feel free to reach out to one of our experts for more information!
Introduction to Industrial Power Tools
This video from our In the Lab series introduces industrial power tools and their advanced features, including torque measurement, tightening angle monitoring, and precision controllers like the Power Focus 8. This demonstration highlights how these tools ensure consistency, efficiency, and product quality in industrial applications.
Understanding our Tool Types
Electric Tools
Traditional electric torque tools are connected directly to an electrical source with a cord, providing stable performance for assembly tasks.
Ideal for: Situations where power and precision are critical.
Benefits of electric tools:
- Higher torque and power output
- Consistent power supply
- No battery management
- Lighter weight
- Cost-effective
Limitations of electric tools:
- Limited operator movement
- Cable may be bulky or obtrusive in tight quarters
- Dependent on available power source
- Potential for wear and tear
- Less portability
Cordless Tools
Cordless tools offer you the freedom to work in various locations without being tethered by power cords. This mobility makes them highly versatile.
Ideal for: Environments where mobility and flexibility are essential.
Benefits of cordless tools:
- Greater mobility and flexibility
- No power cord to manage
- Easier to transport
- Reduced Tripping Hazards
- Usable in hard-to-reach spaces
Limitations of cordless tools:
- Heavier due to onboard batteries
- Limited battery life requires charging, management
- Lower power output compared to corded tools
- Higher initial costs, battery replacement costs
Fixtured Tools
Fixtured tools are designed to be mounted on assembly lines or workstations to provide stability and precision for repetitive tasks.
Ideal for: High-volume production environments where consistency is crucial.
Benefits of fixtured tools:
- High precision and repeatability
- Increased productivity, throughput
- Enhanced operator safety
- Consistent quality
- Reduced operator fatigue and error
Limitations of fixtured tools:
- Limited flexibility and mobility
- High initial setup cost
- Requires dedicated space, infrastructure
- Longer setup and calibration times
- Less suitable for low-volume or custom applications
Your Application Needs
+/- 5% Accuracy
Safety Critical
Safety-critical applications are environments where failure could result in severe consequences, such as injury, loss of life, significant environmental harm, or financial loss. To ensure safety, tools must offer precision, reliability, and traceability to complete every assembly to exact standards.
- Full traceability and reporting
- Advanced tightening strategies
- NOK results can be a life safety issue
+/- 7.5% Accuracy
Quality Critical
Consistent and precise fastening is crucial to maintaining the quality and performance of the final product in quality-critical applications. These applications require precise control, rigorous testing, and strict adherence to standards to ensure that the final product meets all necessary specifications.
- Support multiple torque ranges
- Programmable tightening strategies
- Reduces hardware costs
+/- 10-15% Accuracy
Customer Critical
Customer-critical environments involve the production of large quantities of products. Efficiency and ergonomics are critical to maintaining production speed and minimizing operator fatigue. Tools must be durable, easy to use, and capable of sustaining high-speed operations over long periods.
- OK/NOK reporting
- Eliminates manual checks
- Improved process efficiency
How does fastening impact your application?
Learn about the fundamentals of torque theory with our free webinar on-demand!
Connectivity
Atlas Copco’s advanced controllers and software provide intuitive monitoring and control of tightening operations performed using Atlas Copco’s electric torque wrenches and assembly tools. Assembly process control and quality assurance are made easy by advanced control functions. Controllers are essential components for electric tools, providing critical functions that enhance their performance, safety, and versatility. We offer physical controllers, tools with integrated controllers, as well as server-based controller solutions. These allow users to adjust settings for different tasks, ensure the tool operates within safe limits, and provide valuable feedback and diagnostics.
Form Factors
Inline
Inline tools are designed for use in a continuous production or assembly process, where they operate directly "in line" with the workflow. They are typically integrated into manufacturing lines to perform specific tasks such as fastening, measuring, cutting, or marking while the production line is running.
Right Angle
Right-angle tools are designed with a 90-degree angle between the handle and the working end, allowing them to access tight or confined spaces where a straight tool might not fit. They are useful in environments where space is limited and the operator needs to work at an angle to the fastener.
Pistol Grip
Pistol grip tools are designed so that the user's hand wraps around a handle perpendicular to the tool's working end. This design provides a comfortable and ergonomic way to hold and operate the tool, making it easier to apply force and control its operation, especially during repetitive tasks or for extended periods.
Key Technologies
Traceability
Traceability enables manufacturers to monitor and document every aspect of the production process, ensuring quality, compliance, and safety. It provides a robust framework for managing risk, improving processes, and responding effectively to any issues that arise.
Ergonomics
Safety and ergonomic principles protect workers from injury and illness while optimizing their comfort, efficiency, and overall well-being. These aspects are crucial in creating a work environment that meets regulatory standards and promotes productivity, job satisfaction, and long-term health for employees.
Sustainability
Sustainability is the creation of manufactured products through economically-sound processes that minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources. It also encompasses enhancing employee, community, and product safety.
Functionality
Advanced tightening strategies can expand the functionality of your electric tools. These cutting-edge approaches and techniques leverage the latest technologies and business models to enhance productivity, efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. They are often aligned with the principles of Industry 4.0 and aim to address the complexities of modern manufacturing environments.
Integrations
Integrations are critical for creating a connected, efficient, and agile production environment. By seamlessly connecting systems, processes, and data, manufacturers can improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, enhance product quality, and respond more quickly to market demands. While there are challenges associated with integration, the long-term benefits make it a key strategy for modern manufacturing success.
Productivity
The performance and outcome of an assembly process is vital to the quality of the end product in many advanced industries. Implementing more efficient tools and fine-tuning working processes are a critical part of the continuous work for improving industrial productivity. Atlas Copco’s electric torque gun offering allows for the robust ability to handle high cycle count environments while offering high-speed fastenings.
Ready to Learn More?
Contact an electric torque multiplier expert today to determine what solution is best for your application and get an on-site demonstration.