Red Seal Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) Practice Exam

What is a torque multiplier?

1. A device used to decrease the torque applied to fasteners or nuts.

2. A device used to increase the torque applied to fasteners or nuts.

3. A device used to measure torque on tools.

4. A device used for fastening screws without torque.

The correct answer is: A device used to increase the torque applied to fasteners or nuts.

A torque multiplier is a tool specifically designed to increase the torque output that can be applied to fasteners or nuts. It works on the principle of mechanical advantage, using a gear mechanism to amplify the input torque applied at the handle of the tool. This allows the user to achieve higher levels of torque without requiring excessive physical effort. For instance, when a smaller torque is applied to the handle of the multiplier, the internal gears can multiply this input, resulting in a significantly greater force being exerted onto the fastener. This capability is particularly useful in applications where high torque is needed to properly secure fasteners, such as in large machinery or vehicles, where directly applying such force by hand would be impractical or impossible. Understanding the function of a torque multiplier is important for safe and effective fastening practices, as improperly torqued fasteners can lead to mechanical failure.