Hydraulic impact wrenches: types and purpose

Everyone knows that most often you have to tighten the nuts with wrenches. But sometimes the hand tool is not effective enough because the clamp is too strong or for some other reason. Then a hydraulic impact wrench can come to the rescue.

It is useful to know that officially this device is called differently - "a torque wrench with a hydraulic drive." The purpose of its use, however, does not change on behalf of. A hydraulic wrench is needed to:

• tighten the nut with a specified effort;
• remove fasteners that are stubborn due to rust;
• simplify locksmith and installation work.

The hydraulic torque wrench was invented back in the 1960s. Such a tool was quickly appreciated both by the employees of car repair shops, and by specialists engaged in the installation of large metal structures in construction. The hydraulic drive attracted the attention of engineers and mechanics primarily because it creates the highest torque in comparison with analogues. Therefore, even the most complex and time-consuming work operations will be performed very easily. Importantly, this simplification of work does not affect accuracy, moreover, other types of drive cannot guarantee such a small tolerance.

As a result, the torque wrench turned out to be the most valuable assistant in the work of the crews of sea-going ships, in the maintenance of aircraft. It is used by installers of gas pipelines, oil pipelines, water supply and heating networks. This tool is also needed in oil refineries and chemical plants. But since such large hardware is rarely found in residential buildings, this is more a device for professionals.

Through a hose designed to supply fluid under increased pressure, the lubricating fluid from the pump moves into the working part of the tool. Its end segment is made in the form of either a replaceable nozzle or an adjustable clamp with terminals. By setting certain parameters of the flow of hydraulic fluid, you can accurately determine the required torque. The working head includes:

• outer case;
• safety valve;
• transmission;
• cylinder (sometimes several cylinders).

To determine the exact level of torque, use:

• changing the geometry of parts of the transmission mechanism;
• varying the pressure of the fluid leaving the cylinder;
• changing the distance separating the middle of the cylinder from the middle of the drive part.

Most often, a torque wrench is created according to the end or cassette pattern. The end type is flexible, the terminals are opened by the action of a screw pair. It should be borne in mind that such a tool is not suitable for transmitting large torque. Cassette wrenches are highly functional. They add hexagonal cassettes to allow controlled tightening of fasteners.

The socket can be applied by sliding bolts and nuts over the heads. Therefore, such a tool is preferable when it is necessary to unscrew corroded fasteners. A cassette wrench is advisable to use in hard-to-reach places.

When a new portion of oil passes into the working cylinder, the piston moves. The ratchet then converts the received impulse into torque.The retractable piston block catches another part on the wheel, as a result, the ratchet unit scrolls. Then the pawl is released and the head part rotates without resistance. The hydraulic fluid is discharged through a safety channel into a common pipe.

Any hydraulic impact wrench works more efficiently than pneumatic and electric tools. Alternatively, only impact devices can be considered. If the diameter of the fastener to be removed is M16 or less, a torque of 250 Newton meters is required. If it fluctuates from M20 to M30, this moment should be 1000 Newton meters.

Impact wrench from leading manufacturers can be fixed in many positions. It is useful to have an oil station with a special time relay. It allows you to set up a full cycle of work in automatic mode. Then it will be possible to control the action of the mechanism even remotely. The advantages of hydraulic impulse equipment in comparison with simple percussion models are increased productivity and relatively low noise.

Available with 3/8, 1/2 and 3/4 inch drive spindle squares. Disconnection in some models occurs automatically, while in others it is not provided at all. The wrench is turned off due to the delay or the operation of the bypass valves. Getting acquainted with the description, you need to focus on modifications where operator intervention is minimal.

You can find out how to choose a wrench in the following video.