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lightweight carbon fiber torque tube

Image courtesy of GCI Engineered Solutions

Lightweight Torque Tube Made With Carbon Fiber

August 22, 2024

Mounted to overhead bridge cranes, torque tubes absorb the torque reaction from fastening tools. However, conventional tubes made from steel shafts are heavy, leading to operator fatigue, discomfort and decreased productivity.

This new torque tube is made of strong, lightweight carbon fiber. It absorbs both vertical and horizontal torque forces. The tube weighs one-third less than comparable steel models.

The arm passed durability tests involving 100,000 vertical torque cycles, 50,000 horizontal torque cycles, and 50,000 cycles with a 30-pound offset load. For the max load test, the applied load of a torque tool was continuously increased until the point of failure, providing valuable insights into the torque tube’s true maximum capacity.

The carbon fiber torque tube is ideal for applications requiring less than 200 newton-meters of torque and applications that require torque tools to reach broad areas. Its compatibility with overhead bridge and jib crane systems allows for seamless integration and movement within workcells. 


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