Understanding Torque Analyzer Modes and Filter Settings

This article explains:

• What torque analyzer modes do
• Which mode to use for different tools
• How filter settings affect measurements
• Common mistakes to avoid

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Quick Mode Selection Guide

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What Is a Torque Event?

A torque event is a single application of torque from the start of tightening until the tool stops, clicks, slips, or torque is released.

The analyzer captures torque data throughout the torque event and reports the measurement based on the selected operating mode.

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Torque Analyzer ModesTrack Mode

What It Does

Track Mode displays the live torque value as torque is being applied.

Best For

• Monitoring torque in real time
• Troubleshooting applications
• Training demonstrations

Key Characteristics

• Continuously updates torque values
• Displays live torque only
• Does not hold a peak reading

Example: As torque increases from 5 N·m to 20 N·m, the display continuously updates throughout the tightening process.

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Peak Mode

What It Does

Peak Mode captures and holds the highest torque value reached during a torque event.

Best For

• General torque tool verification
• Electric tools
• Pneumatic tools
• Measuring maximum torque output

Key Characteristics

• Records the highest torque reached
• Holds the value after the measurement is complete
• Most commonly used analyzer mode

Example: If a tool reaches 25 N·m, the analyzer displays and holds 25 N·m after torque is released.

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First Peak Mode

What It Does

First Peak Mode captures the first significant torque peak generated during a torque event.

Best For

• Click torque wrenches
• Preset torque screwdrivers
• Operator training

Key Characteristics

• Captures the actual click point
• Ignores torque applied after the click
• Helps identify operator over-torque

Training Benefits

Many Mountz analyzers can display:

• First Peak Torque (actual click point)
• Final Peak Torque (highest torque reached)

This allows users to evaluate how much torque is applied after the wrench clicks.

Example: A wrench clicks at 30 N·m, but the operator continues pulling to 34 N·m. First Peak records 30 N·m while Peak records 34 N·m.

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Why Are Peak and First Peak Readings Different?

This is one of the most common questions when testing click-type torque wrenches.

After a wrench clicks, the operator may continue applying force for a brief moment. As a result:

• First Peak Mode captures the actual click point.
• Peak Mode captures the highest torque reached, including torque applied after the click.

This difference is normal and often useful for evaluating operator technique.

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Understanding Filter Settings (Hz)What Is a Filter?

Filter settings reduce signal noise and torque spikes during measurement.

The analyzer processes incoming torque data through a filter to provide more stable and repeatable readings.

Filters are measured in Hertz (Hz) and can significantly affect measurements when testing pulse and impulse tools.

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Why Are Filters Important?

Some tools generate rapid torque pulses, vibration, and electrical noise that can influence measurement results.

Applying an appropriate filter helps:

• Reduce signal noise
• Improve repeatability
• Minimize false torque spikes
• Produce more representative torque readings

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Filter Settings by Tool TypeManual Torque Wrenches

Examples:

• Click torque wrenches
• Cam-over wrenches
• Break-over wrenches

What to Expect

Filter settings typically have little impact because these tools generate a smooth, relatively slow torque curve.

Changing the filter setting often results in little or no change in the reported torque value.

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Electric Shut-Off Tools

Electric shut-off tools generally produce cleaner torque signals than pulse or impulse tools.

What to Expect

Some applications may show minor differences between filter settings, while others may show little change depending on the amount of signal noise generated.

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Pulse and Impulse Tools

Pulse and impulse tools generate rapid torque spikes and mechanical vibration.

Best Practice

Use the lowest filter setting that still provides stable and repeatable readings.

Too Little Filtering

• Excessive signal noise
• Unstable measurements
• Torque spikes affecting results

Too Much Filtering

• Over-smoothed signal
• Reduced reported torque values
• Distorted measurement results

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Example Filter Applications

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Common MistakesUsing Peak Mode for Click Torque Wrenches

Peak Mode may capture torque applied after the wrench clicks, resulting in readings higher than the actual wrench setting.

Using Excessive Filtering

Too much filtering can reduce reported torque values and hide actual torque events.

Comparing Results Using Different Filter Settings

Measurements should only be compared when the same filter setting is used.

Using Track Mode for Tool Verification

Track Mode displays live torque but does not capture a measurement result. Peak or First Peak Mode should be used for most verification applications.

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Important Note About Accuracy

Changing analyzer modes or filter settings does not change the accuracy of the analyzer.

Analyzer modes determine how torque data is captured and displayed. Filter settings determine how the signal is processed. Neither changes the analyzer's calibration or accuracy specification.

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Recommended Analyzer Settings Summary

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Quick Tip

Start with the analyzer's default filter setting. For pulse and impulse tools, adjust the filter only as needed to achieve stable and repeatable results while preserving the true torque characteristics of the tool.

Need Help?

• Contact a Mountz Torque Tool Specialist
• Call us:
  • North America:(408) 850-9978
  • International: +44 1428 741756