Hydraulic torque wrenches are among the most powerful and precise bolting tools in the
industry, but with high-pressure fluid and strong mechanical reaction arms comes the
potential for serious injury if not handled correctly. At High Force Engineering, we
prioritize safety and strongly recommend that any site using hydraulic tools provides
proper training on safe use and operation.
Hydraulic Hose Safety
Safe hydraulic hose handling is critical for preventing accidents:
- Depressurize before use: Always release pressure from the hose before disconnecting or moving it.
- Store correctly: Coil hoses in a circle, wrapping end to end. Never connect both ends on one side together.
- Inspect regularly: If you see exposed steel braiding, cracks, burns, or kinks.
Pinch Point Hazards
One of the greatest safety concerns with hydraulic torque wrenches is pinch points
created by the reaction arm. Remember: for every action, there is an equal and opposite
reaction.
- Example: If 1000 N of force is applied to a bolt, the same amount of force is being pushed through the reaction arm onto the adjacentsurface.
- Never allow hands, fingers, or any body part to be caught between the tool and the reaction point.
Tool Design and Release Safety
Hydraulic torque wrenches come in two main designs:
- With holding pawls – allows ratcheting without winding up on the fastener but can occasionally bind.
- Without holding pawls – operates directly without the ratchet function. When a holding pawl tool becomes stuck:
- Do not strike the tool with a hammer.
- Safe release: Re-energize the wrench through the hydraulic pump, depress the holding pawl, and the tool will release safely.
