Gage R&R Study on a Torque Wrench

Gage R&R, Torque Wrence

Q: I need information on performing a Gage R&R on a torque wrench. We are using the wrench to check customer parts.

A: For reference on both variable and attribute Gage R & R techniques, a good source is the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA) publication.

The traditional torque wrench is a “generate” device in the sense that it generates a torque to tighten or loosen a fastener (a nut or a bolt, etc.). So, in a strict sense, it is not a “measurement” device. Therefore, both preset and settable torque wrenches are set to a torque value and then used to tighten a fastener or loosen a fastener. When loosening a fastener, it will determine how much torque is required to loosen the fastener. Usually, the clockwise motion is for tightening and counterclockwise motion is for loosening in a torque wrench.

To conduct a variable Gage R & R study on a torque wrench, we would need a “measurement” device which would be a torque checker with a capability to register peak (or breaking) torque. Many such devices are commercially available and if a facility is using torque wrenches, it is a good idea to have one of these to verify performance of torque wrenches. Such a device is usually calibrated (ensure traceable accredited calibration) and provides reference for proper working of torque wrenches.

Now,  one would conduct a Gage R&R study using the typical format:

  • Two  or more appraisers.
  • 5 to 10 repeat  measurements at a preset torque by each appraiser, replicated 2 to 3 or more times.

A word of caution on torque wrenches and setting up the Gage R&R:

  • The measurement is operator dependent, so operators need to be trained on proper toque wrench usage techniques.
  • Ensure that torque is set between every measurement in the settable torque wrench to simulate actual usage between repeated readings.
  • Ensure the number of repeated reading and replicated readings are the same for all appraisers.

The templates for data collection are available in spreadsheet format  from commercial providers. Alternatively, one can design the template from the MSA publication referenced. The data would be analyzed using the guidelines from the MSA publication.

Good luck with the Gage R&R! It is a very useful and worthwhile exercise in understanding your measurement process.

Dilip A Shah
ASQ CQE, CQA, CCT
President, E = mc3 Solutions
Chair, ASQ Measurement Quality Division (2012-2013)
Secretary and Member of the A2LA Board of Directors (2006-2014)
Medina, Ohio
http://www.emc3solutions.com/

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To learn more about this topic, visit ASQ’s website.

ISO 17025 Clause 5.4.2 – Selection of Methods

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratoriesQ: We are working with the Mexican Accreditation Entity (EMA) for certification to ISO/IEC 17025:2005 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. Clause 5.4.2 states: The laboratory shall confirm that it can properly operate standard methods before introducing the tests or calibrations.

We are a testing laboratory and work with Method 21 – Determination of Volatile Organic Compound, EPA 40 CFR Ch.1 ( 01/07/04 Edition ) Test: Monitoring of Fugitive Emissions.

The question is: What would be the best way or a way to confirm the method? Or, to put it another way, how can we satisfy the requirements in clause 5.4.2 ?

A: The questioner is referring to clause 5.4.2 from ISO/IEC 17025:2005. An excerpt of this clause is below. Please refer to ISO/IEC 17025:2005 for the full clause.

5.4.2 Selection of methods

“…Methods published in international, regional or national standards shall preferably be used….. Laboratory-developed methods or methods adopted by the laboratory may also be used if they are appropriate for the intended use and if they are validated…. The customer shall be informed as to the method chosen. The laboratory shall confirm that it can properly operate standard methods before introducing the tests or calibrations.…”

Since the questioner is using the published methods, there is no need for validation of the method unless the method is modified.

However, the proficiency of being able to apply the published method needs to be demonstrated. This can be demonstrated by a documented Gage R & R study, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) or Design of Experiments (DOE) study as appropriate to show proficiency in being able to utilize the test method properly.

The results from these studies may also be used to estimate the uncertainty of measurement for the tests. Reporting uncertainty of measurement with both test and calibration results is a requirement in ISO/IEC 17025:2005. The ILAC P14 document is a good guidance document on reporting uncertainty.

Dilip A Shah
ASQ CQE, CQA, CCT
President, E = mc3 Solutions
Chair, ASQ Measurement Quality Division (2012-2013)
Secretary and Member of the A2LA Board of Directors (2006-2014)
Medina, Ohio
http://www.emc3solutions.com

For more on this topic, please visit ASQ’s website.