Calibration of torque tools

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................2

2 WHAT IS CALIBRATION?....................................................................3-5
2.1 Why do we need calibration and determining of capability?..............3
2.2 How does calibration differ from service?..........................................5

3 CREDIBILITY OF RESULTS.................................................................6-9
3.1 Traceability of measuring equipment..................................................6
3.2 Conditions for performing calibration................................................. 7
3.3 Measurement uncertainty.....................................................................8
3.4 Calibration certificate.......................................................................... 9

4 ACCREDITED AND NON-ACCREDITED CALIBRATION............10-12

4.1 Why use accredited calibration?........................................................10
4.2 Rules for performing calibration..................................................11-12

5 ADVANTAGES OF THE ITS CALIBRATION LABORATORY....... 13-17

5.1 Who are Atlas Copco?..................................................................13-14
5.2 Services provided..........................................................................14-16
5.3 Contact............................................................................................... 17

6 APPENDIXES.......................................................................................18-22
Atlas Copco s.r.o. accreditation certificate and appendix ..................18-19
Sample calibration certificate
3-point calibration of a rise-and-fall pendant..........................................20
ISO 9001, ISO 14001 certificates....................................................... 21-22

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 1
 1. Introduction

Using calibration services for torque tools, torque transducers

and torque measuring tools (collectively torque measuring
equipment) significantly contributes to compliance with
prescribed parameters in all technical activities that require
reliable tightening results. Increasing product safety requirements
for are especially important in the automotive industry, but are
also applied in assembly and other industrial fields.

The purpose of this publication is to provide information on

the importance of accredited calibration services for torque
measuring equipment. It presents the work provided by
calibration laboratories and the range of information provided
on calibrated devices to their users. The publication also explains
important concepts associated with the work of calibration
laboratories.

Fig. 1 Sample use of a hand

torque tool.

2 C A LIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
2. What is calibration?

2.1 Why do we need calibration and

determining of capability?
Services for torque measuring equipment include maintenance
and repair, as well as equipment adjustment. These services are
needed wherever it is necessary to monitor the parameters of tight-
ening tools. A good service organization will provide adjustments
to meet the users requirements (and according the knowledge of
its employees). However, this service is no substitute for independ-
ent, impartial assessment of the equipments ability to achieve the
required results.

A direct request for independent accredited calibration and deter-

mining of capability may arise from a customers quality manage-
ment system certification. Chapter 7.6 of ISO 9001 refers to cali-
bration of measuring equipment according to standards associated
with national or international standards. The stricter ISO/TS 16949
standard, in chapter 7.6.3.2, demands that a calibration laboratory
be directly accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025 (although it
also allows for other forms of verification of a laboratorys capa-
bilities).

Fig. 2 Mobile equipment for testing

hand torque tools.

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 3
 The quality costs of badly performing tools
Expense of
Losses mount warranty repair
tenfold Customer detects that
the assembly is wrong
???
Final inspection
detects that the
assembly is wrong
??? Lets hope that the
rest are OK!
Quality control
detects that the
Badly 1000
joint is wrong
performing
tool reported
by the 100
employee

10

Are your tools really adjusted right?

Gears Sensor

On a properly working tool, a sensor measures tightening torque at 25 Nm,

Bearings where ~24.8 Nm is the set torque and ~0.2 Nm is the friction on the gears
and joints.

During work, the set torque gradually changes, but the sensor still shows
25 Nm. If internal friction reaches 5 Nm, the tool will tighten only to 20 Nm.
25Nm or 20Nm?

What problems can calibration detect?

Electric and pneumatic wrenches
and screwdrivers (Gear wear)
x Failure
x
Variance
(3) Tool set to maximum
tightening torque
70% max. tightening torque
Gear replacement needed

Tools live longer with regular preventative maintenance.

Number of tightenings (Worn angle and planetary gears)

4 C A LIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
2.2 How does calibration differ from service?
Torque tools, torque transducers and torque measuring devices
are calibrated by a calibration laboratory within the scope
specified in a valid accreditation certificate, or more precisely
in its appendix. For accredited calibration (see chapter 4), the
calibration laboratory is bound by specific rules, and violation of
them can result in revocation of the laboratorys accreditation. The
calibration laboratorys customer can be sure that an auditor and
a professional expert conduct strict inspections of the laboratory
employees activities. The customer can also submit a complaint
regarding the laboratorys activities, and complaint resolution is
the object of special attention by the supervisory authority.

A calibration laboratorys management system involves a

number of monitoring instruments. These include upgrading
employees qualifications, inspection of the technical equipment
used, managing disputes and taking systematic measures, all
the way to internal audits conducted by a qualified employee.

The basic difference between adjustment in a service context

and calibration of torque tools is the reliability and credibility
of the parameters required when using the tools.

Fig. 3 Sample equipment for

calibration of torque transducers.

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 5
 3. Credibility of results

3.1 Traceability of measuring equipment

The laboratories use only measuring equipment that are
metrologically traceable to international standards. Traceability
can be achieved through calibration of standards by an external
calibration laboratory, or through calibration using ones own
accreditation. Traceability through ones own calibration is
secured through participation in programs for inter-laboratory
comparison and verification within the context of accreditation.

Fig. 4 Sample calibration

performance, including measuring
set (measurement unit, cable and
standard) and measured set (tool,
cable and control unit).

6 C A LIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
3.2 Conditions for performing calibration
A laboratorys activities include calibration conducted under
laboratory conditions and calibration conducted externally on
the customers premises. Monitored values include the ambient
temperature and humidity. For this monitoring, the laboratory
has humidity meters and thermometers calibrated at accredited
calibration laboratories. The standard environmental condition for
obtaining proper measuring results is a temperature between 18C
and 28C (preferably between 20C and 22C) and a maximum of
90% humidity. The temperature during calibration must be recorded.
If, during measurement, there is a deviation of more than 1C,
measurement must be repeated. If the customer defines different
temperature conditions for using calibrated measuring equipment,
the uncertainty must be adjusted. Based on the manufacturers
data, the uncertainty caused by the temperature difference during
calibration and ordinary use must also be added.

To obtain reliable results, treatment of the calibrated equipment is also

essential.

In laboratory calibration, equipment is inspected upon receipt. (An

ineligible equipment cannot be accepted for calibration and is sent for
service or returned to the customer.) Throughout the process, thorough
marking and monitoring of the course of the activities are ensured.

For calibration on the customers premises, the equipment is inspected

and accepted for calibration, but the customer is responsible for its
condition.

If there is any damage to the tool, the situation is recorded, the

customer is immediately informed, and after evaluation, corrective
action is taken.

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 7
 3.3 Measurement uncertainty
The appendix to the laboratory accreditation certificate specifies
the BMC value (Best Measurement Capability). Why is this data
important? It gives the minimum percentage of the measured
value by which a calibration result can vary under standard
conditions.

For judging the level of the laboratory, it is also essential to

take into account the contribution of the standard (wtcm) to the
uncertainty. In such a case, during calibration the calculation
methodology allows assessment not only of deviations in the
equipment themselves, but in the entire chain (from the torque
converter to the imaging unit). It also allows assessment of
the equipment ability to work within the context of deviations
ascertained.

Data on measurement uncertainty (also including deviations in

the standard) are included on the calibration certificate.

To achieve reliable calibration results, it is best to use specialized

calculation software, which undergoes annual testing and
inspection by the accreditation authority.

8 C A LIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
3.4 Calibration certificate
A calibration certificate is a list of results of calibration performed.
It guarantees adherence to the approach and accreditation rules
during calibration. The data on the calibration certificate provide
specifically achieved values, but it does not assess whether a
customers required parameters have been achieved. Calibration
laboratory employees cannot monitor the conditions under which
the calibrated equipment is used, and in many cases they dont know
the customers specifications. The information in the calibration
certificate must allow the customer to make a qualified judgement
as to whether the equipment used fulfils his requirements.

Upon customer request, a professionally qualified laboratory

employee can provide an expert opinion on the calibration results.
This statement is not a product of the accredited laboratorys
activities.

Fig. 5 Sample calibration

certificate.

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 9
 4. Accredited and
non-accredited calibration

4.1 Why use accredited calibration?

What are the main differences between accredited and non-
accredited calibration?

The procedures for conducting accredited calibration and for

calculating the deviation and uncertainty of measurement are
regularly verified by auditors and specialists of the accreditation
authority. The laboratorys employees must pass repeated training
in torque measuring equipment calibration and metrological
regulations. However, also important is the system of equipment
traceability for verifying a calibrated tools compliance with
the defined parameters, or standards. The customer delivers the
torque measuring equipment to the calibration laboratory trusting
that the stability and precision of the tightening processs results
will be reliably verified. How is the reliability of non-accredited
calibration ensured? It is based on the customers trust in the
reliability of the equipment at the laboratory he uses. However,
this reliability is not independently verified and is not based on

Fig. 6 Calibration of precise

equipment (torque transducers), as
dynamic also stationary.

10 CALIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
a firm methodology for implementing the calibration conditions,
for evaluating measurement or determining uncertainty.

Accreditation cannot be replaced with any form of certification

or other calibration laboratory authorization. Certification
according to ISO 9001, for example, shows a laboratorys ability
to meet its obligations, but it is no indication of technological
reliability. Certification especially does not verify the correctness
of the approach for calculating the reliability and precision of the
results of measurements conducted in the laboratory. It does not
even include the procedures for testing a laboratorys capabilities,
or so-called inter-laboratory comparison (comparing the results
achieved by various accredited calibration labs).

Credibility is enhanced by direct monitoring of the calibration

labs activities by auditors from the accreditation authority in
the labs place of operation and by evaluation of calibrations
conducted in operation (called witness auditing), for external
calibrations, on the laboratory customers premises.

4.2 Rules for performing calibration

The difference between service adjustments to torque tools and
calibration is defined procedures and parameters - standardiza-
tion. The basic standard for assessing conformity - the capabilities
of the accredited calibration laboratory - is international standard
EN ISO/IEC 17025. Technical requirements for calibrating hand
torque tools are defined by standard EN ISO 6789. Methods of
determining, calculating and expressing measurement uncer-
tainty are defined by EA 4/02. EA 10/14 is a manual published
by European Accreditation for calibrating torque measurement
equipment. International standard ISO 5393 describes Perform-
ance test method of Rotary tools for threaded fasteners.

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 11
 The entire calibration field is also subject to the requirements of
national laws on metrology. When providing services abroad,
a calibration laboratory must provide its employees with the
metrological legislation of the country where the customer
operates. In some countries, the national metrological authorities
make information on legal requirements available on the
Internet.

To get the right results when conducting calibration (even for non-
accredited calibration), it is essential to have proper calibration
procedures and internal methodologies that are maintained in
practice. Step by step, calibration procedures for specific types
of equipment determine the approach to performing calibration.
They start with stabilizing the equipments temperature, and
continue with inspecting it, actual measurement and recording the
calibration results and labelling the equioment. The calibration
methodology is an essential internal document specifying the
conditions for performing calibration, the general principles for all
calibration procedures, the method for evaluating measurement
and determining measurement uncertainty, and the calibration
certificate requirements.

All documents must be accessible to the customer on demand.

The right calibration procedure is chosen during the actual
ordering phase for calibration services. For this reason even the
qualifications of sales employees are essential. They must be
informed enough to support the customer in choosing the right
calibration procedure.

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5. Advantages of the
ITS Calibration laboratory

5.1 Who are Atlas Copco?

Atlas Copco is a group of industrial companies with worldwide
leadership in the field of compressors, construction and mining
vehicles, pneumatic tools and assembly systems. In industrial
tools, it is a world leader, setting trends in the field.

The Atlas Copco group delivers sustainable solutions for

increasing its customers productivity through innovative
products and services. The company was founded in 1873 and
is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. Around the world, Atlas
Copco is represented in more than 170 countries and had 30,000
employees in 2009. In industrial tool calibration, it can therefore
use its knowledge from production. It has access to precise
technical information and specifications and the latest findings
from research and development.

Atlas Copcos accredited calibration laboratory operates in several

countries of Europe, and North and South America. This allows
international knowledge exchange among laboratories accredited
under the same accreditation standards, ISO/IEC 17025. However,
their experience and national conditions differ. The groups
organizational structure allows clear establishment of independent
calibration laboratories, emphasizing the monitoring mechanisms
of the companys information system.

The ITS calibration laboratory is accredited by the Czech

Accreditation Institute, o.p.s. It has offered its services since
2007 and operates in Central and Eastern Europe. Inclusion

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 13
 of accreditation approval under international agreements on
recognizing accreditation (EA MLA and ILAC MRA) allows
publication of calibration certificate without regard to workshop
location.

The range of activities is not tied only to Atlas Copco brand tools.
We also use our calibration experience with tools of other brands.
The important thing is to comply with the scope of calibration
specified in the appendix to the accreditation certificate.

5.2 Services provided

Angle calibration
For equipment capable of measuring the angle of screw rotation
during tightening, ITS can conduct inspection and non-accredited
calibration of the rotation angle, including settings.
Atlas Copco services
Atlas Copco Service and Industrial Technique Service (ITS) can
provide you with a full range of services for industrial tools of
various brands and assembly applications.

You can choose from one of our various service programs. They
can be further adapted to your needs and requirements.

Atlas Copco service representatives (see paragraph 5.3) can

discuss and propose optimal service programs based on the
customers own needs.
More than 60 specialists in industrial tool and application services
in all regions of Eastern Europe are then ready to fulfil the
customers requests.

14 CALIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
Full Coverage Service
You can delegate all your service needs to Atlas Copco, who will
choose the best preventive maintenance plan and provide a full
range of services (repairs, calibration) for your tools for fixed
costs.
This program provides the following advantages:
- less production downtime, higher productivity
- consistently high production quality
- a fixed service budget with no surprise expenses
- lower administrative and production costs
- less need for investment in inventories of replacement parts
and backup equipments
It allows customers to concentrate fully on increasing production
efficiency.
ToolScan RCM Reliability Centered Maintenance
This program establishes an optimal system of preventive or
predictive maintenance tailored to the customers needs and
requirements. It can be part of Full Service Coverage. The
program ensures that the systems user can be sure that it will
work the way its user demands it to, without irregular, unexpected
interruptions and breakdowns. It allows the customer to optimize
production processes and minimize manufacturing interruptions
or slowdowns while lowering administrative costs.
Preventive maintenance
This program allows users to keep their industrial tools at top
performance. As a service partner, Atlas Copco can provide
preventive maintenance that ensures maximum reliability while
maintaining tools stable high performance. The program allows
users to plan a large portion of their necessary service activities
for manufacturing downtimes, thus minimizing production line
breakdowns.

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 15
 Fixed-price repairs
This program allows fast repairs while decreasing administrative
costs. Tools receive priority repair service based on a system
previously agreed upon between the user and Atlas Copco
Service. Transport to the service centre and back is handled with
special service boxes. Full-service repairs ensure maximal life and
performance for repaired tools. After repair, the tools are tested
according to Atlas Copco global standards.
Training, consulting services and installation of assembly
systems
Atlas Copco provides a full range of training and consulting
services for tightening technology, ergonomics and pneumatic and
electronically operated industrial tools and systems. Service also
performs installation (including all necessary documentation) and
modification of industrial applications.
Advantages of ITS calibration and Atlas Copco maintenance
services
- Preventive maintenance is performed along with tool and
equipment calibration.
- Part of calibration of ordinary tools is their adjustment
according manufacturer specifications.
- ITS and Atlas Copco perform services during customer
downtime (such as weekends).
- Calibration services can be part of a Full Service Program
that includes a complete range of services.
- ITS is a part of the worldwide Atlas Copco network and
is therefore integrated into the supply system of all important
industrial manufacturers.

16 CALIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
5.3 Contact
For more information about offerings from the ITS accredited
calibration laboratory and other Atlas Copco services, please,
contact your local from the following representatives:

Tomasz Biernat................................................ western Poland

Tel: +48 510 025 974, email: Tomasz.Biernat@pl.atlascopco.com

Krzysztof Karolak............................................ eastern Poland

Tel: +48 784 345 402, email: Krzysztof.Karolak@pl.atlascopco.com

Milo Suek..................................................... Czech Republic

Tel: +420 602 641 840, email: Milos.Susek@cz.atlascopco.com

Martin Krynsk......................................Moravia & Slovakia

Tel: +420 725 483 562, email: Martin.Krynsky@cz.atlascopco.com

Peter Ormandi............................................................Hungary
Tel: +36 203 891 655, email: Peter.Ormandi@hu.atlascopco.com

Remus Cosmin Stangu............................. Romania, Bulgaria

Tel: +40 730 075 909, email: Remus.Stangu@ro.atlascopco.com

For more information, visit

www.its-ee.com, www.atlascopco.com

CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 17
6. Appendixes

original

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 original original

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 original original

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 original

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22 CALIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
CALI BRATI O N O F H A N D TO R Q U E TO O L S 23
NOTES

24 CALIBRATION OF HAND TO RQ UE TO O LS
www.atlascopco.com
Customer Centre Eastern Europe 2013