Hydraulic torque wrench
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A hydraulic torque wrench is a tool designed to exert torque on a fastener to achieve proper tightening or loosening of a connection through the use of hydraulics. A torque wrench is applied to the nut either directly or in conjunction with an impact socket. Hydraulic torque wrenches apply a predetermined, controlled amount of torque to a properly lubricated fastener. The hydraulic torque wrench was invented by George A. Sturdevant in Houston, Texas. It was first on the market in the early 1960's as a primitive version, and many advances have made the tools better, as new generations of models have come about.
The main characteristics of a hydraulic torque wrench which set it apart from other powered wrenches of similar function are that (1) it must generate torque using only hydraulic means (2) it must be self ratcheting, and (3) it must include an accurate method of determining the amount of torque applied. Some manufacturers utilize a holding "paw" design to keep the wrench locked in position prior to each power stroke, others use varying designs, which as in all industries have debatable faults or claimed advantages. Hydraulic torque wrenches typically offer accuracy of +/- 3% and have a high degree of repeatability making them well suited to applications where large bolts are involved and a high degree of accuracy is required.
See also
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