Red Seal Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) Practice Exam

Which tool is commonly used to tighten bolts to a specific torque?

1. Hammer

2. Adjustable wrench

3. Torque wrench

4. Socket set

The correct answer is: Torque wrench

The tool commonly used to tighten bolts to a specific torque is the torque wrench. This tool is specifically designed to apply a precise amount of torque to a fastener, typically in the form of a bolt or nut. Torque is an essential factor in ensuring that the fasteners are neither too loose nor overtightened, as both conditions can lead to mechanical failure or damage. The torque wrench typically has a scale or setting to indicate the desired torque level, allowing the user to adjust it according to the specifications required for the job. Using a torque wrench is critical in many mechanical applications, especially in the automotive and industrial fields, where the integrity of joints and assemblies depends heavily on the proper torque. Other tools, like an adjustable wrench or a socket set, can be used to tighten bolts but do not provide the accuracy needed to achieve a specific torque. Therefore, while they can be helpful for general tightening tasks, they are not designed for precision work involving torque settings. A hammer, on the other hand, is used primarily for driving nails or fitting parts together and does not serve the purpose of tightening bolts to a required torque value.