What Is a Torque Multiplier?
A torque multiplier is a mechanical device used to increase the torque applied to a fastener. It uses a gear system to multiply the input torque from a torque wrench, driver, or other input device, allowing higher output torque to be produced with less applied force.
Torque multipliers are commonly used for large fasteners and high-torque applications where the required torque would be difficult or impractical to apply directly with a standard torque wrench. Depending on the design, torque multipliers may be manual, pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic.
Torque multipliers are used in aerospace and defense, industrial manufacturing, energy, heavy equipment, transportation, maintenance, and other applications involving critical high-torque fasteners. Because multiplier performance affects the relationship between input torque and the torque delivered to the fastener, regular calibration helps verify that the device continues to provide the expected torque output.
Common Torque Multiplier Types
SIMCO supports calibration for common torque multiplier types and configurations, including:
- Manual torque multipliers
- Planetary gear torque multipliers
- Pneumatic torque multipliers, where supported
- Electric torque multipliers, where supported
- Hydraulic torque multipliers, where supported
- Fixed-ratio torque multipliers
- Adjustable or multi-stage torque multipliers, where supported
- Clockwise and counterclockwise operation, where applicable
Torque Multiplier Calibration Capabilities
SIMCO provides torque multiplier calibration services designed to evaluate torque output, identify changes in multiplier performance, and support traceable documentation for quality and compliance programs.
Our torque multiplier calibration services may include:
- Inspection of the multiplier, drive components, reaction components, housing, and overall condition
- Verification of torque output at multiple points across the supported operating range
- Evaluation of the relationship between applied input torque and resulting output torque
- Clockwise and counterclockwise verification, where applicable
- Calibration using appropriate torque reference standards and documented procedures
- Adjustment, when supported by the equipment and service scope
- As-found and as-left results, when required
- Calibration certificates with measurement results, tolerances, uncertainties, and traceable documentation
Why Torque Multiplier Calibration Matters
Torque multiplier performance can change over time due to repeated loading, gear wear, lubrication condition, overload, mechanical damage, improper reaction setup, or normal use. Changes in the multiplier’s mechanical performance can affect the relationship between input and output torque.
When a torque multiplier is used for critical fastening operations, an incorrect output can contribute to under-tightening or over-tightening even when the input torque is correctly applied.
Calibration helps support:
- Torque performance: Evaluates the relationship between input torque and output torque across the calibrated range.
- Fastening reliability: Helps provide confidence that the multiplier delivers the expected torque for critical assembly and maintenance operations.
- Compliance and audit readiness: Provides traceable documentation for quality systems, customer requirements, and regulated environments.
- Risk reduction: Helps reduce under-tightening, over-tightening, fastener damage, rework, equipment problems, and assembly failures.
Calibration Service Options
SIMCO supports calibration programs through a range of service models designed to meet different operational, compliance, and turnaround requirements.
Depending on your equipment type, service scope, location, and quality requirements, available options may include:
- In-Lab Calibration: Equipment calibrated through SIMCO’s accredited lab network
- Onsite Calibration: Calibration at your facility, where available and appropriate for the equipment and service scope
- Embedded Laboratories: Onsite, fully managed calibration labs
- Managed Outside Services: Coordinated third-party calibration management
- Pickup and Delivery: Local pickup and delivery options available for SIMCO service areas
Industries and Applications We Support
SIMCO supports torque multiplier calibration for organizations where high-torque fastening accuracy, traceability, and assembly quality are critical.
Common applications include:
- Aerospace and defense assembly and maintenance
- Industrial manufacturing and heavy equipment
- Automotive and transportation
- Power generation and energy operations
- Wind turbine assembly and maintenance
- Large machinery and equipment installation
- Structural and high-torque bolting
- Maintenance and repair operations
- Production assembly and quality control
Why Choose SIMCO for Torque Multiplier Calibration?
- ISO/IEC 17025 accredited calibration services
- Calibration support for common torque multiplier types and configurations
- Multi-point torque verification across supported operating ranges
- Clockwise and counterclockwise verification, where applicable
- Calibration using appropriate torque reference standards and documented procedures
- Calibration documentation with measurement results, tolerances, uncertainties, and traceable results
- As-found and as-left data available when required
- Calibration support for regulated and high-precision industries
- Service options including in-lab, onsite, embedded laboratories, managed services, and pickup and delivery
- Asset management support through CERDAAC SIMCO Manager