The AWS RDF Standard Rundown Fixture - Joint Simulators for Torque Testers is required for accurate torque measurement for power-driven torque controlled tools (electric, hydraulic or pneumatic). The AWS RDF Joint Simulator are not necessary or useful when measuring torque on manually-operated torque tools (screw-drivers, wrenches, etc.) It simulates the conditions found when using the tool in real-world conditions, allowing the speed of the power tool motor to ramp-up to normal operating speeds resulting in a more accurate and repeatable measurement of the torque. The Joint Simulator is typically fabricated from machined steel with the appropriate drive size as needed. Internally it is comprised of a series of Belleville washers, designed to compress as the bolt tightens. By varying the arrangement of these washers, various joint rates can be simulated soft, medium and hard.Unless otherwise, specified, Joint Simulators are configured to simulate a medium joint. The joint rates can be adjusted by the user by changing the orientation of the Belleville washers upside down.
