Snap-on Industrial has announced the launch of a torque certification program designed specifically to meet the needs of the growing global wind industry. Snap-on Industrial, a division of Snap-on Inc., is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of hand and power tools, specialty tools, storage solutions, and training to meet the needs of industry.
“Torque certification is particularly sensitive in the wind-power industry because mistakes can be both expensive and time consuming,” says Frederick Brookhouse, business and education partnership manager. “In developing this training program, our goal is to outline a curriculum that builds on what Snap-on has learned in certification programs it has spearheaded in the automotive market. As a company we’ve learned what works and what doesn’t work in creating an effective training program.”
Torque is the turning motion used to tighten or secure a fastener around an axis point. The amount of force used in a particular task is measured in Newton meters, or foot pounds. The Snap-on torque certification program, developed in collaboration with educators, explores both torque theory and proper use and application of equipment; testing for certification focuses on equipment use.
The 16-hour certification course is designed as a component to an existing wind-power technician training course. The Snap-on torque certification program will be integrated into wind-power technician courses currently available at Lakeshore Technical College in Cleveland, Wisconsin; Gateway Technical College in Kenosha, Wisconsin; Texas State Technical College in Sweetwater, Texas; Cerritos College in Cerritos, California; and the multi-campus Frances Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma.
The torque curriculum includes modules on theory, technique, mechanical torque wrenches, electronic torque wrenches, hydraulic torque wrenches, torque multipliers and safety. It is designed to cover every aspect of torque, from the basics through master-level skills. Current wind-power curriculum incorporates the study of electrical and electronic components, electrical safety, working in confined spaces and working at height.
“The understanding and proper application of torque is a mission-critical element of a viable and sustainable wind-power industry in the U.S.,” Brookhouse says. “This industry needs strong training programs to meet the burgeoning demand for manpower. Snap-on Industrial is uniquely positioned to provide this customized, specialized training and we’re working to apply that knowledge today.”
To learn more contact Dale Alberts at (262) 656-6559 or dale.l.alberts@snapon.com. Go online to www.snapon.com.
