FG ESD Preset Torque Screwdrivers

Quick Answer

FG ESD preset screwdrivers deliver fixed, repeatable torque using a cam-over clutch while utilizing ESD-safe materials designed to help reduce electrostatic discharge in sensitive electronics manufacturing environments.

Who This Is For

Manufacturing & process engineers
Electronics assembly operators
Quality & calibration teams
Medical electronics manufacturers
Aerospace electronics assembly teams
Telecommunications manufacturers
CX and Sales teams supporting torque tools

When Should You Use This?

Use FG ESD preset screwdrivers when:

Sensitive electronic components require ESD-safe tooling
Torque must remain fixed and controlled
Multiple operators need consistent fastening results
Over-tightening could damage components
Electronics manufacturing quality standards must be maintained

When Should You NOT Use This?

Do not use FG ESD preset screwdrivers if:

Torque values need to change frequently → use an adjustable tool
Higher torque ranges are required → use larger torque screwdriver models
Torque data capture or traceability is required → use a transducerized system
ESD protection is not required for the application

How FG ESD Preset Screwdrivers Work

FG ESD tools use a cam-over clutch mechanism with internal torque adjustment:

Torque builds during fastening
Once the preset torque is reached, the tool cam-overs or slips
Additional torque is prevented from being applied
ESD-safe materials help reduce static buildup during assembly operations

Result:
Consistent torque, reduced fastener damage, improved quality control, and safer handling of static-sensitive components.

Core Features

ESD-safe construction materials
Cam-over clutch for torque limiting
Internal tamper-resistant torque adjustment
Preset torque operation
Designed for electronics assembly environments
Helps prevent over-tightening
Repeatable torque performance
Designed to meet ISO torque accuracy requirements
No external adjustment scale

FG ESD-Series Models

Each FG ESD model is preset to a specific torque value within its available torque range. The torque setting is adjusted internally and verified using a torque analyzer.

Unlike adjustable torque screwdrivers, FG ESD tools do not feature an external torque adjustment scale. The internal locking mechanism helps prevent accidental torque setting changes and supports process control requirements.

How FG ESD Models Are Specified

Each FG ESD model represents a screwdriver family capable of being preset to a range of torque values.

The published range indicates the available torque settings that can be specified during calibration or setup.

Example

The FG-20i ESD has an available torque range of 2–20 lbf.in (22–226 cN·m).

If your application requires 10 lbf.in, the tool can be preset and verified at that torque value using a torque analyzer.

FG ESD Torque Range Lineup

FG-25z ESD
3–25 ozf.in (2–17.7 cN·m)

FG-50z ESD
20–50 ozf.in (14.1–35.3 cN·m)

FG-8i ESD
1.6–8 lbf.in (18–90 cN·m)

FG-20i ESD
2–20 lbf.in (22–226 cN·m)

FG-40i ESD
4–40 lbf.in (0.4–4.5 N·m)

FG-125i ESD
25–125 lbf.in (2.8–14.1 N·m)

Model Selection Guide

Need ultra-low torque fastening for delicate electronics?

Choose:

FG-25z ESD
FG-50z ESD

These compact models are designed for micro-torque applications and small fasteners commonly found in electronics and precision assemblies.

Need a standard production screwdriver for electronics assembly?

Choose:

FG-8i ESD
FG-20i ESD

These models are commonly used for PCB assembly, telecommunications equipment, and medical electronics manufacturing.

Need higher torque capacity?

Choose:

FG-40i ESD
FG-125i ESD

These models support larger fasteners and higher torque requirements while maintaining ESD-safe performance.

Need the longest calibration life?

Choose:

FG-8i ESD
FG-20i ESD
FG-40i ESD
FG-125i ESD

These models provide calibration life up to four times ISO standards (20,000 cycles before recalibration).

FG ESD-Series Models

Model	Torque Range (American)	Torque Range (Metric)	Drive Size	Weight	Length
FG-25z ESD	3–25 ozf.in	2–17.7 cN·m	1/4" F/Hex	2.8 oz	4.1"
FG-50z ESD	20–50 ozf.in	14.1–35.3 cN·m	1/4" F/Hex	2.8 oz	4.1"
FG-8i ESD	1.6–8 lbf.in	18–90 cN·m	1/4" F/Hex	7.3 oz	5.2"
FG-20i ESD	2–20 lbf.in	22–226 cN·m	1/4" F/Hex	7.3 oz	5.2"
FG-40i ESD	4–40 lbf.in	0.4–4.5 N·m	1/4" F/Hex	11.5 oz	6.3"
FG-125i ESD	25–125 lbf.in	2.8–14.1 N·m	1/4" F/Hex	11.5 oz	6.3"

Models are available with Blue, Red, Green, or Gold label colors.

ESD Protection Features

FG ESD screwdrivers are specifically designed for static-sensitive manufacturing environments and incorporate:

High-grade dissipative coating
Surface resistance of 10⁵ to 10⁸ Ohms
Compliance with IEC 61340-5-1 and ANSI/ESD STM11.13
Anti-static properties that help minimize static electricity generation and particle attraction
Impact-resistant dissipative handle materials
Dynamic wear-resistant internal seals that help prevent grease leakage and contamination
Electrostatic decay from handle through bit typically less than 50 milliseconds

Which FG ESD Model Should I Select?

Start with these questions:

What torque value is required?
Is ESD protection required by the manufacturing process?
Are small or larger fasteners being assembled?
Is calibration life an important consideration?
Will the tool be used for PCB assembly, telecommunications equipment, medical electronics, or aerospace electronics?
Are multiple operators using the tool?
Is preventing accidental torque changes important?
Is repeatability more important than frequent torque adjustment?

The answers to these questions will help determine the appropriate FG ESD-Series model for the application.

Setup & Adjustment

Internal Torque Adjustment

FG ESD tools use an internal adjustment mechanism.

To adjust torque:

Set up the screwdriver on a torque analyzer.
Use the supplied hex key to adjust the torque setting.
Verify the torque value using the analyzer.
Seal the end cap with a calibration sticker after adjustment if required by quality procedures.

FG ESD tools do not feature an external torque adjustment scale.

Can Torque Be Changed Later?

FG ESD screwdrivers can be adjusted to a different torque value within the model's specified range. After adjustment, the tool should be verified using a calibrated torque analyzer and recalibrated before being returned to production service.

Decision Guide

FG ESD Preset vs Other Options

Use FG ESD preset screwdrivers when:

Electronics assemblies require ESD protection
Torque values must remain fixed
High fastening consistency is required
Sensitive components could be damaged by over-torque
Process control and repeatability are priorities

Move to other tools when:

Adjustable torque is needed frequently → FGA Adjustable Series
Data capture or traceability is required → Smart tools
Higher torque ranges are needed → Larger preset tools
Cleanroom compatibility is required → FG Cleanroom models

Use Cases (Real-World Examples)

1. PCB Assembly

Problem: Electrostatic discharge damages sensitive circuit boards
Solution: ESD-safe screwdriver helps reduce static buildup during fastening

2. Electronics Manufacturing

Problem: Operator inconsistency creates fastening variation
Solution: Preset torque eliminates variation between operators

3. Medical Electronics Assembly

Problem: Small fasteners are damaged by over-tightening
Solution: Cam-over clutch prevents excessive torque application

4. Aerospace Electronics

Problem: Sensitive avionics require both ESD protection and precise torque
Solution: ESD preset screwdriver supports repeatable fastening performance

Troubleshooting

Issue 1: Torque feels inconsistent

Cause: Tool out of calibration
Solution: Recalibrate using a torque analyzer or send to a calibration lab

Issue 2: Tool slips too early

Cause: Torque set too low or internal adjustment drift
Solution: Reset torque using calibration equipment

Issue 3: Fasteners still stripping

Cause: Incorrect torque specification
Solution: Verify application torque requirements

Issue 4: Operator thinks tool is broken

Cause: Misunderstanding of cam-over behavior
Solution: Train operator that clutch release indicates correct torque reached

Issue 5: ESD events still occur

Cause: Incomplete ESD control procedures
Solution: Verify workstation grounding and follow proper ESD protocols

Calibration & Standards

FG ESD tools are designed to meet ISO torque accuracy and repeatability requirements.

Recommended calibration intervals may include:

Every 5,000 cycles
Every 12 months
Based on internal quality standards
After the tool is dropped or damaged

Torque verification using a calibrated torque analyzer helps support:

Product quality
Process consistency
Reliable fastening performance
Compliance with internal quality procedures

ESD Protection Notes

Why ESD Protection Matters

Electrostatic discharge can damage:

Circuit boards
Semiconductors
Sensors
Microelectronics
Static-sensitive assemblies

Even small static discharges may result in latent or immediate component failures.

Best Practices for ESD-Safe Assembly

Use grounded workstations
Follow ESD-safe handling procedures
Use grounding straps and mats
Verify tools meet ESD-safe requirements
Maintain clean assembly environments

Integration / Advanced Notes

Manual fastening tools only
No PLC or MES integration
No built-in torque traceability
Depends on proper calibration and ESD control procedures
Internal tamper-resistant torque adjustment
Designed for static-sensitive manufacturing environments

Media & Supporting Content

Need Help?

Contact Applications Engineering for setup guidance
Speak with Sales for product selection
Call us:
- North America:(408) 850-9978
- International: +44 1428 741756

FG ESD Preset Torque Screwdrivers – FAQ & User Guide

Quick Answer

Who This Is For

When Should You Use This?

When Should You NOT Use This?

How FG ESD Preset Screwdrivers Work

Core Features

FG ESD-Series Models

How FG ESD Models Are Specified

FG ESD Torque Range Lineup

Model Selection Guide

FG ESD-Series Models

ESD Protection Features

Which FG ESD Model Should I Select?

Setup & Adjustment

Internal Torque Adjustment

Can Torque Be Changed Later?

Decision Guide

Use Cases (Real-World Examples)

Troubleshooting

Calibration & Standards

ESD Protection Notes

Best Practices for ESD-Safe Assembly

Integration / Advanced Notes

Media & Supporting Content

Related Articles / Content

Need Help?