Small Torque from CK


Most users can’t help but be aware of just how sophisticated some tools are nowadays, and likely to become even more so. With modern electronics and cordless technology, a lot more is possible now than even ten years ago. But I suppose further sophistication brings other issues with it – like how even humble things like screwdrivers need to be developed in order to keep pace with developments elsewhere and the need to ensure maximum safety wherever possible. The torque screwdriver from CK is just such a


development. Clearly, the days when “tight enough” was a measure of the users’ hand pressure, with this screwdriver, “tightened to the correct torque” is more correct. Specifically, the Electrical Safety Council Wiring Regulations (17th Edition) require electricians to adhere to manufacturers’ fitting instructions when working with electrical components. Also, many manufacturers have, through research, found that over-tight or loose terminals can lead to sparking and then possibly to a fire hazard. To obviate these, they are specifying the torque to which terminals must be tightened – and for this an electrician needs a torque screwdriver. Now, not all users will need a torque screwdriver.


Let’s face it most screwdriving is done by cordless machines these days. Hand screwdrivers are only really used for ease of access and/or where the delicacy of the job requires it. Certain kinds of electrical connections in cars and other machines, the electronics industry and other sensitive components will need the touch of a torque screwdriver. What seems to be becoming more common is that NECIEC assessors are checking electricians’ toolkits to see if they possess and are using a torque screwdriver.


settings are etched in Nm from 1.50 to 4.0. The user sets the initial torque setting by screwing the lower micrometer adjustment knob clockwise to increase the torque setting. To get an exact torque setting of 3.5Nm just keep on tightening until the micrometer adjustment knob reaches the line. But it is a bit more sophisticated than this. On the bottom of the micrometer adjustment knob are increments marked in 0.1 of a Nm. So if you need a setting of 3.7 Nm, the micrometer adjustment is moved two clicks tighter so that the 0.2 Nm mark is above the 3.5Nm mark. 3.5 plus 0.2 Nm equals 3.7Nm. Simple. In this way, the user is able to set a very accurate


and stepped torque adjustment quite easily on the screwdriver. Turning to the two screwdriver bits the first thing I


noticed is that they have hardened driving points. These are very accurately machined as you would expect on a precision driver and the matt black coating is a bit roughened, so will provide a bit of extra grip and rust protection. The smaller


bit has a 4mm diameter hex shank that is 15cm long. This fits straight into a corresponding hex socket deep in the handle so that only about


The CK torque screwdriver is handsomely


packaged in a zipped black nylon case with a CK logo on it. Inside there are only three parts – a large handle and two driver bits. The handle is obviously the most important part


so I will begin with that. It is an ergonomically shaped plastic handle with a rounded bulb that fits neatly into the heel of the hand. The black parts are a hard plastic while the yellow parts are a soft rubber mould that provides grip and comfort. Being 12cm long, the handle itself is made so that the user can give it a good tweak if necessary and it also keeps fingers away from the metal parts below it. The clever bit is below the handle. Users of


torque wrenches will be familiar with the kind of markings that are etched into the barrel of the screwdriver base. In descending order towards the handle, torque


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50mm or so of the bit projects from the handle. As far as I could tell there is a spring or a catch in the handle that holds the bit firmly in place. It will not fall out – you will have to pull it out. I couldn’t check it out, but apparently the CK is one of the few quality torque drivers that has all-metal internal components . This ensures strength and a long and accurate working life. The bigger driver bit is much


more substantial and is clearly meant for applying a lot more torque on bigger screws. The hex section that fits into the socket in the handle is only a couple of centimetres long and


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Independent Review by Peter Brett


the rest of the shaft has two cylindrical steps, getting thicker towards the screwdriver point. The end of this driver projects from the handle a little under 6cm, leaving a bit more space for applying torque with the hands. Finding a safe method of testing the screwdriver


without electrocuting myself eventually meant turning off a circuit in the house and tackling some terminals. I had a few hit and miss moments as I tried to find out what the torque settings were on the terminals I unscrewed, but I did get the hang of it after a few minutes. Once you have set the required torque, all you have to do is tighten the screw until the handle slips and you hear a click - exactly like a torque wrench used in a garage. You do not have to reset the torque again. it will remain on the setting until you reset the micrometer adjustment knob again. Since the CK torque screwdriver is a precision


instrument it should be recalibrated every year or after 5,000 cycles. However, the good news is that similar products have to be recalibrated after only 1,000 cycles. This proves the value of quality all-metal internal components and quality CK manufacture. What might be a tad off-putting is that the


screwdriver set (you can buy driver bits separately and in different screw types) will cost nearly £120 including VAT. But I would be happy to see any electrician I hired with one in his toolkit, simply because it meant that he was up to speed on current regulations and had my safety in mind as he worked on the job.


Reply No. 227


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