Torque loss through extensions??

[jwilliams3]

I got into a discussion about torque wrenches, impact guns, extensions affecting transmitted torque or force.

I have my opinions, but what are the facts?



Is there a loss of force using extensions with an impact gun?



Is there a loss of force using a extensions with a torque wrench?



--Justin

 

[JCyrbok]

I could be wrong, but the way I understand it is that if the extention is straight, ie perpendicular to the handle of the wrench the torque is the same, but if it is like a crows foot type u have to adjust for a torque difference.



I dont know if there is a difference with an impact gun though, i kinda think that it would be the same as a torque wrench.



Like I said this is how I understand it, so i may be wrong, but hope it helps u in the right direction.



J-

 

[jwilliams3]

What I am getting at is if impact guns work on blows to do the work, when adding an extension would increase the slop or play between the two.



--Justin

 

[SRadke]

Same torque with a torque wrench. When you apply a load at a distance that torque all gets where you want it. The problem with impact guns is that they don't work on the torque principle. They use hammers as their driving force. An extension acts as a torsion spring in this application and robs power. It's the diffrence between trying to pound a nail into a board while holding it in your hand or setting it down on a table.



-Scott

 

[Duluth Diesel]

SRadke nailed it.