1. Preferred Method (and quickest): Use a Torque Tester with a rotary torque sensor between the power tool and the actual application. This is the best way to test since you are using the actual joint as the test station. What the Torque tester displays is what the fastener “sees”.

2. Simulated Method: Always use a quality joint rate simulator (run down adapter) when testing power tools in a simulated application. Use Joint rate and Breakaway methods to obtain most accurate torque readings in a simulated rundown.

You can use a Torque Tester (PTT or LTT) that features an angle mode operation with an rotary torque and angle sensor that has an angle encoder to determine the joint rate. The Torque Tester would display peak torque and angle in this mode. This is the most accurate method to enhance simulated test applications.

A common method of testing a previously fastened joint is to use a torque tester in peak mode with a torque screwdriver or wrench sensor like the SDX or ETX. Run the fastener down with the pulse or power tool. Apply additional torque to the fastener with the Torque Tester and a hand-held torque senors. As soon as the fastener starts to turn stop pulling on the wrench and note the reading on the Torque Meter. This is a “close” approximation of the torque achieved with the impulse tool (actually the true value is usually less than what is shown on the tester because of the torque necessary to overcome friction and operator influences). It is wise to take a number of these readings to get a true picture of what is really happening on the application joint. This will also give you a “feel” for how much variance you are getting from the output of the pulse or power tool. Remember that most pulse tools are no better than 10% accurate, and frictional variations create even more scatter in results (up to 30% or more).