In the rugged realm of mining, where safety and productivity intertwine, the reliability of bolt joints emerges as a pivotal concern.
A critical but costly exercise
Mining companies around the world are faced with the challenge of quick and accurate bolt fastening for torque-critical joints. These joints can be found site-wide – from excavators, dump trucks, earthmovers, and wheel loaders to conveyors, tunnel boring machines, infrastructure, pipework, and upstream equipment. It goes without saying that in a heavy-duty, high-risk environment such as a mine site, the accuracy of torque applied is critical.
Bolt fastening has traditionally been a labour-intensive and consequently costly exercise, using impact wrenches that commonly over-torque joints, hydraulic wrenches which are externally powered and bulky – requiring two people to operate – or air and corded electric nutrunners which require changing torque via a bench torque tester.
Still, inefficient operation is only part of the challenge, with the added issues of indeterminate control and monitoring. Time may be valuable for productivity, but accuracy, consistency, and traceability of performance are the cornerstones of a compliant and safe work site. Without a precise auditing method, how can you be sure your tool is doing its job?
A fresh approach to bolt fastening
Fortunately, Ingersoll Rand has developed the QX Series Cordless Torque Multiplier – a revolutionary tool specifically designed to replace manual, inaccurate fastening methods with a traceable method that is quicker and more effective.
Relatively new to the Australian market, the QX Series Torque Multiplier employs advanced technology, communication, and control features to ensure accurate, repeatable bolting for industrial applications. The tool is available in a range from 200Nm to 4000Nm in both 20V and 40V.
The multiplier features a brushless motor paired with a premium Norbar gearbox. At the heart of the Torque Multiplier is the Ingersoll Rand closed-loop transducer, which is the key to delivering torque precision, unmatched accuracy and traceable results. The tool operates on the Ingersoll Rand IQV20 and 40V Series battery system and each 20-volt battery charge will rundown an average of 100 bolts.
Accuracy
The multi-function display module provides visual feedback via red, yellow, and green lights, to signal whether the bolt has met the specified torque limit or angle, or if the proper gang count was reached. The only tool using a closed-loop transducer for precision, it delivers accuracy to +/- 0.1Nm without use of a test bench. Your business will benefit immediately, with improved efficiency and ability to hit nuts in a faster sequence.
Adaptability
Multiple user-programmable configurations such as torque (Nm, Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Prevailing), angle and gang count reduce the number of tools needed for multiple applications. Up to 32 preset settings can be stored and these functions can be navigated directly on the tool or programmed from the Insight app, a computer or data controller, or remotely via web.
Safety
The QX Torque Multiplier is quiet, cordless, and compact, eliminating the need for a hydraulic pump or breaker bar and reducing noise and vibration levels. Potential injury and operator strain is minimised as users move freely without the inconvenience of bulky air or hydraulic hoses or power packs, and the 360-degree adjustable handle provides a comfortable grip and provisions for a tethering point, allowing maximum flexibility when working on multiple joints and accessing odd angles.
Accountability
Replacing potentially flawed and time-consuming manual record-keeping practices, the multiplier tool itself can store records for up to 1,200 fastenings, which can be downloaded to a computer via a USB cable or wirelessly transferred to a dedicated Process Communication Module (PCM). Now reliable compliance data is available for review, analysis, and record keeping at any time.
The CAPS commitment
CAPS is the only Australian distributor of the Ingersoll Rand QX Torque Multiplier which has successfully been utilised across mining, heavy equipment, rail, construction, infrastructure, military, and process automation industries around the world.
Established in 1980, CAPS boasts more than 43 years of experience in compressed air and power generation. With ten branches nationwide and 24/7 service for maintenance and emergency breakdowns, CAPS endeavours to lead the industry in service and solutions.
The QX series of smart tools also includes right angle wrenches, pistol wrenches and precision screwdrivers, all offering improved process control, operator comfort, and data communication while increasing productivity, lowering costs, and ensuring quality.
See more at https://www.caps.com.au/torque-control-tools/
This sponsored editorial is brought to you by CAPS Australia. For more information visit https://www.caps.com.au/
