If you’re building a torque quality program, you’ll run into two components that sound similar but do different jobs: the torque analyzer and the torque sensor (aka transducer). They’re complementary, not interchangeable. This guide explains the difference, when you need one vs both, and how to choose confidently.
TL;DR
- Torque Analyzer = the instrument that runs tests and manages data (display, modes, pass/fail logic, memory, connectivity).
- Torque Sensor/Transducer = the measurement element that converts applied torque into a signal the analyzer reads.
What Is a Torque Analyzer?
A torque analyzer is the “brains” of your setup. It reads the sensor signal, applies test logic (Track/Peak/Initial Peak/Power Tool), shows results, and stores records for traceability.
Examples of Torque Analyzers (Sturtevant Richmont & Mountz):
- Sturtevant Richmont System 8 Digital Torque Tester — high-accuracy bench analyzer (±0.25% IV from 10–100% capacity).
- Sturtevant Richmont Torq-Tronics 2 — shop-floor analyzer family for daily checks.
- Sturtevant Richmont VeriTorq — compact verification testers for clicker/cam-over tools and screwdrivers.
- Mountz TorqueLab LTT (e.g., LTT100i) — benchtop analyzers that pair with external sensors.
- Mountz PTT-2000 — portable analyzer/controller for line-side checks.
- Mountz EZ-TorQ III (e.g., 100i) — compact analyzers with integrated transducer for quick verification.
A torque sensor is the “feeler” that measures torque. By itself it doesn’t display or store data—it must connect to an analyzer.
Examples of Torque Sensors (Transducers):
- Sturtevant Richmont TT-Series Static Transducers — broad range coverage for calibration benches and loaders.
- Helpful accessory: TT-Series L-Bracket for mounting. Large L-Bracket
- Mountz BMX Reaction Sensors — reaction (static) transducers that pair with LTT/PTT analyzers.
How Analyzers and Sensors Work Together
- The sensor converts applied torque into an electrical signal.
- The analyzer interprets that signal, applies mode/filters, shows pass/fail, and logs resolts.
Think probe + instrument—neither is complete alone.
Daily Verification vs Periodic Calibration
- Periodic calibration: use a high-accuracy analyzer (e.g., System 8) with a mechanical loader to apply torque at 90° for repeatability. Example loader: SR ML-250.
- Daily/shift-start verification: line-friendly analyzers (e.g., Torq-Tronics 2, VeriTorq, EZ-TorQ III) catch drift before it becomes rework.
Power tool stabilization: use rundown fixtures/adapters to emulate joint conditions.
Examples:
- SR Rundown Fixture (e.g., 339 Nm).
- Mountz Run Down Adapter (e.g., Screw RDA – M2).
Choosing the Right Setup
Calibration Lab or Central QA
- Analyzer with the tightest accuracy (e.g., System 8) plus a kit of static transducers like the SR TT-Series covering your ranges; add a mechanical loader such as the ML-250 for repeatability.
Line-Side Verification
- Compact Analyzers: SR Torq-Tronics 2, SR VeriTorq, Mountz EZ-TorQ III (100i) or Mountz PTT/LTT
Broad Range Coverage, Minimal Cost
- One analyzer + swappable sensors usually beats multiple analyzers. For SR benches, use TT-Series and quick mounting (e.g., L-Bracket); for Mountz, mix BMX sensors to cover low through higher ranges (BMX10i → BMX750i).
Common Misconceptions (And the Reality)
- “A sensor can run by itself.” It can’t—no display, logic, or logging without an analyzer.
- “One built-in sensor covers everything.” Most analyzers are modular; swapping sensors is how you cover micro torque through high torque accurately.
- “Side load doesn’t matter.” It does. Load at 90° using loaders/fixtures (e.g., ML-250 , SR rundown fixture) to improve repeatability.
Putting It All Together: Build Your Torque Testing Stack
Choosing between a torque analyzer and a torque sensor isn’t an either/or decision—it’s a system decision. The analyzer is the brain that runs test logic, shows pass/fail, and stores audit-ready data; the sensor/transducer is the measurement element that converts torque into a readable signal.
Build around your requirements for accuracy, torque ranges, and workflow: use a high-accuracy analyzer for periodic calibration and line-friendly analyzers for daily verification, then pair them with appropriately ranged sensors for complete coverage.
A practical next step is to inventory your torque tools and fastener ranges, define accuracy and certification needs, and then select the matching components: e.g., a System-class bench analyzer for certification or a shop-floor analyzer for shift checks, plus a small kit of static transducers (SR TT/TT-QC/TT-L) or reaction sensors (Mountz BMX) to span low through high torque.
Add mechanical loaders and rundown fixtures where applicable to reduce operator influence and stabilize power-tool testing. With the right analyzer-sensor pairings in place, you’ll tighten consistency, simplify audits, and cut rework across your torque program.