Maximum Voluntary Hand Grip Torque for Circular Electrical Connectors

Abstract

A study was performed to determine maximum hand grip torque that can be exerted when tightening or loosening circular electrical connectors. A static, sustained three-second exertion was used as the strength criterion. Torque was applied to simulated connector rings and was measured by means of a single bridge torsional load cell. Other variables tested included the type of grip employed, orientation of the connector, use of work gloves and chemical defense gloves, height of the connectors, and direction of rotation. Hand grip torque strength was found to be directly related to connector diameter with similar strength patterns exhibited for tightening and loosening. Higher torque was exerted when the connectors were on the subject's right side. The use of gloves resulted in higher torque in most situations. Connector height and direction of rotation had little effect on torque strength.