What is the primary purpose of a torque wrench?

The primary purpose of a torque wrench is to precisely apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener, such as a bolt or nut, ensuring that it is tightened to the manufacturer's specifications. This careful application of torque is crucial to prevent over-tightening, which can lead to stripping threads or damaging components, and under-tightening, which can result in insufficient clamping force and possible failure of the assembly.

While it may seem that tightening bolts is a straightforward task, using a torque wrench ensures accuracy and consistency, especially in applications where proper torque is critical for performance and safety. In automotive applications, for example, components such as cylinder heads, wheels, and suspension parts require precise torque specifications to function effectively and safely.

The other choices do not align with the specific function of a torque wrench. Cutting materials and drilling holes pertains to tools designed for those tasks, such as saws and drills, while measuring torque is a function that describes what a torque wrench does as an effect, not its primary purpose. Therefore, the focus is on the importance of tightening bolts with an appropriate level of torque, which is the most accurate reflection of the tool's primary use.