Instrument installation is a crucial element in all industries, whether it is a research-based industry or a development one. You need the proper tools to set up complex laboratory experiments, install sensors in a manufacturing facility, or calibrate instruments for accurate measurements.
Proper instrument installation not only assures precision but also improves the efficiency and reliability of your operations. We’ll review the ten essential tools every technician, engineer, or scientist should have in their toolkits.
Using these tools, you can streamline the installation process and reduce the window for errors.
1. Multimeter
Also known as a multitester, this tool comes in handy for all electrical connections required by instruments. This electronic measuring tool combines different measurement tasks into a single unit.
A multimeter can measure voltage, current, resistance, and continuity. Both analog and digital multimeters are available in the market, and you can choose your pick.
Multimeters are also required to check and maintain electrical issues, such as checking the circuit. Since multimeters are heavily used, find one that is good quality and durable.
2. Screwdriver Set
Screwdrivers and nut drivers are needed to fasten and strengthen equipment especially, electrical and instrumentation fastening during installation. These come in a variety of sizes and types.
You should always have a Phillips screwdriver and a flathead with you if you’re responsible for installing instruments in facilities. Nut drivers come in handy when you have to tighten nuts and bolts.
To gain more precision in your job, get a screwdriver with interchangeable tips to avoid damage to sensitive components. Since you may need to work for long, invest in a screwdriver that is comfortable to hold.
3. Wrenches
Instrument installation may include pipe fittings and fastening of nuts and bolts. For these purposes, the wrench is an indispensable tool.
You should get an adjustable wrench to use in diverse applications. Even if you’re a builder who requires precision in their fittings, you’ll notice how handy the wrench is as a tool.
If you’re dealing with sensitive machinery and equipment, getting a torque wrench set is advised to prevent damage from over-tightening. Allen wrench sets are also popular among technicians and engineers since they can fit in places that have hexagonal sockets.
4. Pliers
You can find a range of pliers to choose from, including side-cutting pliers, needle-nose pliers, and slip-joint pliers. This versatile tool is used for multiple purposes like bending, cutting wires, and gripping cables.
If you need to use a tool to tighten or grip something in a tight space, then you can use needle-nose pliers. If you want to cut wires neatly, then you need to use side-cutting pliers for a smooth finish. When picking out pliers for your tools, buy something durable and comfortable to grip.
5. Tape Measures
You need to properly align and fit equipment during installation. For this, a tape measure is necessary. If accurate measurements are not taken, then there are chances that the instruments are not positioned correctly and might cause issues later.
If you’re working with wires or cables, you must measure them before fitting them with the machinery. A high-quality tape measure can help you calculate all distances precisely.
However, try choosing a tape with metric and imperial units since you’ll encounter different measurement standards while working.
6. Levels
When working on instrumentation installation, ensure your fittings are accurate and precise. This is why levels are a part of the essential tools you should carry.
Levels ensure that all components are perfectly horizontal or vertical when installed. Spirit levels with bubble indicators are the standard levels used for precise alignment.
However, you may also use laser levels when installing larger equipment. Laser levels project a reference line or plane for accurate placements.
7. Calibrators
Calibration is a highly critical step during instrumentation installation. With calibration, you can ensure accurate readings. Plenty of calibration tools are available to choose from, and it depends on what equipment you’re dealing with.
Electricians and technicians’ most common calibrators include voltage and current calibrators, pressure calibrators, and temperature calibrators.
Using these forms of calibrators, you can check if your installed instruments are operating with the specified accuracy.
8. Cable and Wire Management Tools
In industrial locations, you need to install equipment neatly. Due to this, cable and wire management tools are required in order to organize correctly. These tools include cable ties, cable organizers, and wire labels.
Using these items, you can secure and identify cables to prevent tangling and confusion. Cable cutters and wire strippers are also a part of these tools.
Wire strippers remove the insulation layer from wires when you need to splice and make a new connection. You need durable and sturdy wire management tools that accommodate different wire and cable sizes.
9. Pipe and Tubing Tools
Some installations may require you to work with gasses or fluids. For these substances, you need pipe and tubing tools to quickly transport materials.
Pipe cutters, flaring, and tubing tools are necessary for cutting, shaping, and bending pipes and tubes. These tools also connect different tubes and pipes for long distances.
Pipe and tubing tools are also helpful when renovating a house and changing the plumbing. Using these tools, you can secure the pipes and tubes for a leak-free installation.
10. Safety Equipment
Your safety should take priority when installing instruments in a facility. If you’re working with electrical wires and equipment, you need insulation gloves to protect you from electric shocks.
When welding or using certain chemicals during installation. Hearing protection and ear muffs are also recommended in facilities where loud noises are bound to occur during the installation.
Sometimes, you might have to use specific safety gear such as respirators or chemical-resistant suits.
Conclusion
Instrument installation is a very crucial process, and to ensure that all steps go smoothly, you should have the right tools at your disposal. These ten essential tools will protect you and provide precision and efficiency to your equipment installation.
You should invest in high-quality tools and maintain them regularly to achieve consistent results when working. These tools aren’t just for industry-level installation but are also used in everyday applications around the house.