TBIH Break-Over Torque Wrenches

Quick Answer

The TBIH is a compact preset break-over torque wrench designed for repetitive production fastening at a predetermined torque value.

When the preset torque is reached, the wrench breaks over at the pivot point, signaling the operator to stop applying force and helping reduce the risk of over- and under-tightening.

TBIH models cover torque ranges from 25 ozf.in to 50 lbf.in (17.7 to 565 cN·m) and use interchangeable wrench heads to accommodate different fastener types and sizes.

Who This Is For

Manufacturing engineers
Process engineers
Quality engineers
Assembly operators
Production supervisors
Electronics manufacturers
Medical device manufacturers
Aerospace manufacturers
Automotive manufacturers
General industrial assembly facilities

When Should You Use This?

Use the TBIH when:

Repetitive fastening is performed at the same torque setting
Low- to medium-torque fastening is required
Preventing operator torque adjustment is important
Over-tightening and under-tightening need to be controlled
A compact wrench is required for restricted spaces
Different wrench head styles are required for different applications
Visual confirmation of reaching the preset torque is beneficial

The TBIH is particularly suited to production environments because its internal preset adjustment reduces the opportunity for operators to change the torque setting unintentionally.

When Should You NOT Use This?

The TBIH may not be the best choice when:

Operators need to frequently change torque settings during production
An adjustable wrench with a visible torque scale is required
Torque requirements exceed 50 lbf.in
ESD-safe operation is required
Electronic torque measurement or fastening data collection is needed
Counterclockwise torque application is required

For higher torque or ESD-safe break-over applications, consider the TBX-Series.

How the TBIH Works

The TBIH uses a preset break-over mechanism to provide physical and visual feedback when the target torque is reached.

During operation:

The wrench is preset to the required torque value.
The operator applies torque to the fastener.
When the preset torque is reached, the wrench breaks over at the pivot point.
The break-over action signals the operator to stop applying torque.
The wrench can then be used for the next fastening cycle.

Result:

Reduced risk of over-tightening
Reduced risk of under-tightening
Consistent application of the preset torque
Clear visual indication when torque is achieved
Improved process control for repetitive fastening

The standard TBIH has a break angle of up to 90°. Models limited to 20° or 30° break angles are available upon request.

Core Features

Preset break-over torque wrench
Interchangeable wrench head design
Torque range from 25 ozf.in to 50 lbf.in
Break-over mechanism provides a visual indication when torque is reached
Helps reduce over- and under-tightening
Tamper-resistant internal torque adjustment
No external torque adjustment scale
Compact and lightweight design for restricted spaces
Six colored aluminum handle options for production identification
Clockwise operation
Standard break angle up to 90°
20° and 30° limited break-angle models available upon request

The original TBIH literature also notes compatibility with Utica A-size heads.

Available Models

The TBIH is offered in four torque ranges with six handle colors available for each range. Color-coded handles allow facilities to visually identify specific torque settings, applications, or workstations on the production floor.

TBIH Model Chart

Torque Range	Black	Blue	Red	Green	Yellow	Silver
25–50 ozf.in	068000-A	068001-A	068002-A	068003-A	068004-A	067999-A
3–12 lbf.in	068000-B	068001-B	068002-B	068003-B	068004-B	067999-B
12–21 lbf.in	068000-C	068001-C	068002-C	068003-C	068004-C	067999-C
20–50 lbf.in	068000-D	068001-D	068002-D	068003-D	068004-D	067999-D

The model lineup is organized by torque range and handle color, rather than by different mechanical configurations.

Model Selection Guide

If you need:	Recommended Torque Range
Lowest torque fastening	25–50 ozf.in
Low-torque fastening	3–12 lbf.in
Low- to medium-torque fastening	12–21 lbf.in
Highest TBIH torque capacity	20–50 lbf.in
Visual identification between torque settings	Select different handle colors
Different fastener or fitting types	Select the appropriate interchangeable head

TBIH Wrench Heads

TBIH break-over torque wrenches use interchangeable wrench heads, allowing the wrench to be configured for different fastener types, sizes, and access requirements.

Mountz offers imperial and metric wrench head sizes, along with custom head options for specialized applications.

Available Wrench Head Types

Head Type	Best For
Open End	General fastening and applications requiring side access to the fastener
Box End	Increased fastener engagement, grip, and control
Flare End	Fasteners around tubing, lines, or other obstructions
Hex Key	Internal hex fasteners
Ratchet	Applications where repeated wrench repositioning is difficult
Bit Holder	Applications using interchangeable insert or power bits

Wrench Head Selection Guide

Open End Heads provide side access to nuts and bolts, making them useful when surrounding components prevent access from above.

Box End Heads surround the fastener for increased engagement and control.

Flare End Heads provide access around tubing or lines while engaging more of the fastener than a conventional open-end design.

Hex Key Heads are designed for internal hex fasteners.

Ratchet Heads allow repeated tightening motion without removing and repositioning the wrench after each turn.

Bit Holder Heads provide an interface for interchangeable bits.

Why Use Interchangeable Heads?

Interchangeable heads allow the TBIH platform to support different fastening applications without requiring a completely different torque wrench for every fastener type.

Custom wrench heads are also available for specialized fastener sizes or access requirements.

Setup & Adjustment

Select the TBIH torque range required for the application.
Select the appropriate interchangeable wrench head style and size.
Install the head securely onto the wrench.
Remove the end cap to access the internal torque adjustment.
Adjust the torque using the supplied 3/16" hex key.
Verify the torque output using a calibrated torque analyzer.
Repeat the adjustment and verification process until the required torque value is achieved.
Replace the end cap before placing the wrench into production.
Perform sample fastenings to verify proper operation before production use.

The TBIH does not have an external torque adjustment scale, so the setting must be established and verified using a torque analyzer.

Calibration & Accuracy

The TBIH is designed for controlled production fastening and should be periodically calibrated and verified as part of the facility's torque control program.

The TBIH literature specifies accuracy and repeatability requirements of ±6% of setting in accordance with ISO 6789.

Common Applications

The TBIH is commonly used in:

Electronics assembly
Medical device manufacturing
Aerospace assembly
Automotive manufacturing
Instrumentation and precision equipment assembly
General industrial production
Restricted or confined assembly areas
Production lines requiring preset torque control
Applications requiring different interchangeable head styles

Its compact size, preset design, and break-over mechanism make it particularly useful for repetitive fastening where consistent torque application and error-proofing are priorities.

Use Cases (Real-World Examples)

Precision Assembly

Problem: Small fasteners require controlled torque to prevent damage from over-tightening.

Solution: The TBIH breaks over when the preset torque is reached, providing a clear signal to stop applying force and helping reduce over- and under-tightening.

Restricted Assembly Areas

Problem: Limited clearance makes it difficult to use larger torque wrenches.

Solution: The TBIH's compact, lightweight design is suited for restricted spaces. The original product literature specifies a handle size of 5 1/2" long by 9/16" diameter.

Multiple Fastener Types

Problem: A production process requires different head styles or sizes for different fasteners.

Solution: The interchangeable head platform allows the TBIH to be configured with open end, box end, flare end, hex key, ratchet, and bit holder heads depending on the application.

Production Error-Proofing

Problem: Operators may accidentally change adjustable torque settings, creating inconsistent fastening results.

Solution: The TBIH uses an internal preset adjustment with no external scale. Once configured and verified with a torque analyzer, the setting is protected from routine operator adjustment.

Maintenance

Keep the wrench clean and free of debris.
Inspect the handle, break-over mechanism, pivot point, and interchangeable head for wear or damage.
Verify that the interchangeable head is properly installed before use.
Periodically verify torque output using a calibrated torque analyzer.
Recalibrate the wrench according to your facility's calibration schedule and quality requirements.
After adjusting the torque setting, verify output with a torque analyzer before returning the wrench to production.
Remove damaged or improperly functioning tools from service until they can be inspected or repaired.

Integration & Advanced Notes

Mechanical preset torque wrench requiring no electrical power
Interchangeable head platform supports multiple fastener types and sizes
Internal adjustment helps prevent unauthorized torque changes
Colored aluminum handles can identify different torque settings or applications
Standard models provide a break angle up to 90°
20° and 30° limited break-angle configurations are available upon request
Clockwise operation
Compatible with Utica A-size heads
Designed for repetitive production fastening and torque error-proofing

Media & Supporting Content

Need Help?

Contact Applications Engineering for torque range, fixed head configuration, and application guidance.
Speak with Sales for product selection assistance
- Call us:
  - North America:(408) 850-9978
  - International: +44 1428 741756

TBIH Break-Over Torque Wrenches – FAQ & User Guide