Torque machine. Physicist making adjustments to a 2 kN m torque standard machine. Torque is the rotational force applied to an object, such as using a spanner (wrench) to tighten nuts or bolts. This machine has a torque range of 1 N m to 2 kN m. 1 N m (newton-metre) is derived from one newton of force applied over a distance arm of one metre. This machine works by rotating clockwise or anticlockwise around its central vertical axis. Photographed at the National Physical Laboratory in Teddington, UK.