Common Problems and Solutions for Hydraulic Torque Wrenches

Updated on: April 4, 2025
Category:
TSL Application

Hydraulic torque wrenches are powerful tools that are commonly used in industrial and manufacturing settings to tighten and loosen bolts and nuts. However, like any tool, they can encounter problems that can affect their performance and reliability. Here are some common problems and solutions for hydraulic torque wrenches.

  1. Leaks:

Leaks can occur in the hydraulic system due to damaged seals, connections, or hoses. Leaks can reduce the pressure and flow of hydraulic fluid, leading to a decrease in the tool’s torque output

Earlier modes of hydralic torque wrench 2 768x340 1 1
Earlier models of hydraulic torque wrenches were especially prone to leaks

Solution: Regular inspection and maintenance of the hydraulic system can help prevent leaks. Replace damaged seals, hoses, and connections as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

2. Damaged Square Drives:

Round edge sockets vs other sockets 1
A Broken Square Drive, as a result of applying more than necessary torque pressure

Solution: The correct Impact socket type and size is necessary, this would ensure that the socket is snugly fit on the square drive and has rounded corners on the opening side, thus allowing the forces to be livied on the flanks instead of the corner. This is apart from the fact that the optimum range of torque must be applied.

Round edge sockets vs other sockets

3. Incorrect Torque:

If the torque output is incorrect, it can lead to over-tightening or under-tightening of bolts or nuts, which can cause damage to equipment or create unsafe conditions

Incorrect Torque

Solution: Check the hydraulic torque wrench for proper calibration and ensure it is set to the correct torque specification for the job. Regular calibration checks can ensure the tool is performing correctly. Incorrect Positioning of the reaction arm is another factor that results in incorrect torque. Ensure the hydraulic torque wrench is correctly aligned with the bolt or nut before use, and check for any debris or obstructions in the tool or on the bolt or nut. Regular cleaning and lubrication can also help prevent binding.

Regular maintenance sufficient lubrication and inspection is necessary for the correct tool usage
Regular maintenance, sufficient lubrication, and inspection are necessary for the correct tool usage.

4. Overheating:

Hydraulic torque wrenches can overheat due to prolonged use or overloading, which can cause damage to internal components and reduce the tool’s lifespan.

Torqueing Pumps must have sufficient ability to cool hydraulic fluid being used by the tool. 01
Torqueing Pumps must have sufficient ability to cool the hydraulic fluid being used by the tool.

Solution: Allow the tool to cool down between uses, and avoid overloading the tool beyond its capacity. It’s also important to use the correct amount and type of hydraulic fluid, as specified by the manufacturer.

5. Stripped Bolts:

If a bolt or nut is stripped during use, it can make it difficult to remove and can damage the tool.

A Stripped Bolt cannot be effectiely tightened not loosened
A Stripped Bolt cannot be effectively tightened not loosened

Solution: Ensure the hydraulic torque wrench is set to the correct torque specification for the job to prevent over-tightening, which can cause bolt stripping. If a bolt or nut becomes stripped, use a different tool or method to remove it and avoid damaging the hydraulic torque wrench.

Hydraulic Torque wrench
Hexagon torque wrench 297x300 1

To summarize, regular maintenance, proper use, careful attention to the tool’s performance, and choosing better tools from trusted hydraulic torque wrench manufacturers can help prevent common problems and ensure the hydraulic torque wrench is operating safely and efficiently.

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