It is important to consider the accuracy and speed of operation that is required for a project. Enerpac says that it is best to choose a tool that gives constant torque output to provide high accuracy across its full stroke, as in the case of the latest W and S Enerpac Hexagonal and Square drives.

Consistent torquing from one bolt to the next is crucial for applications ranging from fixed plant to mobile equipment, especially equipment under pressure, such as tanks and pipelines. Any bolt that may come loose causes downtime and – if not spotted in time – can cause failures in equipment. Where a large number of fasteners must have equal strength, tools such as the W low profile hexagonal wrenches and versatile S series square drive have terrific and precise repeatability across the entire range.

Enerpac says that it is important to match the tool to the toughness and duration of the job, because it can be a long drive back if something goes wrong. Steel comes into its own for rigorous, repetitive work – and Enerpac recommends the robust W and S Enerpac torque wrench types that are designed for maximum durability in the long haul, day in, day out.

Modern tool design shouldn’t incur a weight penalty, because even small increases in weight become larger and larger when the same job is done over and over again. To prevent fatigue and risk setting in, choose a tool with careful regard to weight, ergonomics, frequency of use and manoeuvrability around the job. Take the time to compare technologies, such as the W low profile hexagonal wrenches for low clearance bolting applications. Enerpac says that these weigh from only 1.4 - 5 kg, while the versatile S series of double-acting square drive wrenches extends from 2.7 - 31 kg.

Enerpac says that, generally, the rule of thumb is that the torque wrench should have 50 per cent more capacity than required for a particular task. That leaves a capacity reserve that can be necessary for unscrewing bolted joints. For heavy applications, wrenches of twice the capacity are sometimes used.

As far as available working space is concerned, Enerpac says that when height is sufficient, a square drive will be most satisfactory. But if height is limited, it will be better to choose a low model with cartridges. Through application of light, high-tech materials and a one-piece wrench housing, the Enerpac torque wrenches are extremely compact. Their ratchet system has fine toothing, enabling high precision and preventing drive jamming. The double-acting cylinders give precise torque at high operating speeds. The compact high pressure design enables a high torque/weight ratio and offers more power reserve during operation. The swivel coupling can be turned 360 degrees at high pressure, so that the hoses can be set in any position. Enerpac says that this is very important when working in tight spaces. Furthermore, the advantage of the hexagon cartridges and adapters is that these can be quickly replaced; no extra tools are necessary.

In addition to the wrenches themselves (or other hydraulically actuated controlled tightening technologies), Enerpac says it is important to consider the size and efficiency of the pumps brought to the job. The pump may be the biggest tool used, so getting the best power-to-weight performance is important. Compact and portable electric pumps are often the speediest and most efficient solution for jobs close to base where reliable power supplies are available. Prime among these are the ZU4T Series electric pumps available. Weighing between 32 - 36 kg, these cool running pumps are a radically new design with fewer moving parts to reduce weight and friction. They also draw less current than comparable pumps. A self-priming first stage increases pump performance by supercharging the second stage piston pump, improving oil flow in both hot and cold weather operations. Enerpac says that the patent-pending Z-class technology provides high bypass pressures for increased productivity, particularly in applications using long hose runs and in high pressure-drop circuits. Purpose-built bolting pumps such as the ZU4TE can be matched with pendant control for the safety of remote operation where required.

Sometimes jobs just don’t have easy access to pneumatic or electric power. Enerpac says that in these circumstances, it might be best to employ an alternative technology such as a torque multiplier. These manual tools can provide outputs as much as 70 times as great as the input. Where a torque wrench is preferred and has to carry with it its own source of power, there are special lightweight hand pumps available from Enerpac. The lightest of these is the P Series of aluminium-based pumps with durable glass filled nylon reservoirs, weighing from 2.4 to 10 kg. It is often advisable to select a two-stage type, which offers a fast actuating first stage for rapid setup, then a second stage delivering more power and greater oil flows for the job.

Enerpac says that as with all selections of tools for use in remote, rugged and high-safety environments, correct training is essential to get the best precision, efficiency and safety from tools.

In addition, Enerpac says it is important to service tools after use. Even the best tool is useless if it has to wait weeks for service. Enerpac has built their reputation over more than 50 years as an industry leader throughout Australasia, backed by a national sales and service network that extends into every corner of the market.