Comparison Of Stress Distribution Patterns Within Quadrangle, Hexagonal And Octagonal Impact Socket Drive Designs Of A Torque Wrench Using Finite Element Analysis

A torque wrench is applied to the fastener either directly or in conjunction with an impact socket. An impact socket failure occurs during the bolting application. Failure of socket is investigated by using different socket head design. Comparison of stress distribution patterns within quadrangle, hexagonal and octagonal impact socket drive designs are made. A 3D modeling software Cero 1.0 is used to prepare a CAD model of impact socket and evaluate the results in the form of stresses by applying calculated loads in the finite element analysis software ANSYS 12.0. In order to eliminate failure of Impact socket of torque wrench due to stripping and breaking, it is necessary to decrease the maximum stress values and increase the stress distribution. This can be done with drive designs that have greater contact area with the socket drive.