What is the second step in making up threaded joints following hand engagement?

The second step in making up threaded joints, following hand engagement, is wrench makeup. This process involves using a wrench to tighten the joint beyond what can be accomplished by hand alone. After the initial hand engagement, which allows the threads to be properly aligned and started without cross-threading, the wrench comes into play to provide the necessary torque to securely tighten the joint.

Using a wrench for this purpose ensures that the connection is firm and will not leak under pressure. The amount of torque applied is critical, as over-tightening can damage the threads or the fitting itself. This step is essential for creating a reliable and safe joint in pipefitting applications, as the integrity of these connections is vital for the sysytem's safe and efficient operation.

The other options, although relevant to the makeup process of joints, do not directly follow the hand engagement step in the typical sequence.