Testing Prevailing Torque Locknuts: Factors to Check

Locknuts are vital both for the products and the assembly process. Quality nuts can either make or break the product. The performance of prevailing torque depends on a number of assembly variables, including:

Mating characteristics – While testing the prevailing torque locknuts, the first thing that is taken into consideration is mating part characteristics such as diameter, hardness, plating, start thread level, and thread surface condition.

Assembly speed and distance – When the prevailing torque locknut is slided inside the bolt, heat is produced. If too much heat is produced faster than it can emit out, the temperature of the threads will rise. Free-spinning nuts have no prevailing torque, and so no work is converted into heat.

Start thread condition – In case of all-metal locknuts, the thread interference loads the start of the thread. If the thread section is too thin, it might bend or break. The insert in the nylon insert locknuts can be pushed out of the nut before it is inserted into the other component.

Material mismatch – For all-metal locknuts, the material properties are same for both – the locknut and the bolt. If the material mismatch occurs in the prevailing torque locknuts while assembling they will decay faster. As there is no thread interference for a free spinning nut, there occurs no problem.

Other factors to look for in prevailing torque locknuts

Material – Choosing the right material for locknuts is necessary when considering strength, brittleness, and corrosion resistance. Steel and stainless steel are the most popularly used materials in the locknuts industry. Steel is the most popular choice for locknuts due to its durability, tensile strength, and high degree of formability.

Coatings – Coating serves two purposes. First, it increases corrosion resistance and secondly it makes the nut look decorative and beautiful. Zinc, hot dip galvanizing, and chrome are the most common coatings. Zinc coating gets damaged after continuous exposure to water and humidity. Chrome plating offers a quality polished finish.

Size – Size is another point that can help you determine the right locknut for your product assembly. The locknuts are developed in certain ranges such as  M6 or larger and M5 or smaller. This is because different equipment requires different type of fasteners. “M” here stands of the major or nominal diameter which means the measurement of the outermost projecting part of the screw.

Most of the problems that you can face at the time of application is due to the factors mentioned above. Check these factors while buying prevailing torque locknuts in bulk quantity so that you do not face any problem in the long run.

TriState Locknuts is a renowned manufacturer and supplier of prevailing torque locknuts of all grades. Our trademark is registered with the US Patent Office. We are also an approved supplier of locknuts to the US government.