What Are the Different Types of Locknuts Available?

When you visit a fastener distributor, he might have shown you a wide variety of fasteners for every application. From a corrosion resistant stainless steel bolt to a selection of rackmount screws – anything and everything the industry needs.

But there are circumstances when a standard locknut does not fit all applications. There are available different types of locking fasteners to meet different industrial uses. There are four basic types of locking fasteners available, all-metal prevailing torque locknuts, nylon insert locknuts, free spinning locknuts and adhesive locknuts.

All metal prevailing torque locknuts – All metal prevailing torque locknuts are available in various forms. They have a locking feature that increases the friction between the nut and its mating part. This means you don’t have to apply extra force while assembling and removing the nut. Additionally, these are all metal which means they can be used in applications where the temperature is in excess or high and where certain chemicals are being used. These type of nuts can typically be reused any number of times.

Nylon insert locknuts – Popularly known as aircraft lock nuts, elastic lock nuts, elastic stop nuts, nyloc nuts, nylock nuts and nylon insert stop nuts, these nuts are typically hexagon nuts with a polyamide insert. They are reusable because the nylon insert returns to its original shape. They can easily be used at a place where the temperature can reach up until 120 degree Celsius. For higher temperature than this, it is recommended to use all metal prevailing torque locknuts.

Free spinning fasteners – These type of locking fastener turns or spins without a problem till the time they begin to settle. The free spinning fasteners are designed in such a way that their flexible components create a grip with the joint surface, while causing the initial piece to deform. Other vital features of the design include the teeth and ridges which create a tight grip with the surface. The free spinning tightener can be reused and they create an equally tight hold even for the second time unless the surface is damaged.

Adhesive and chemical fasteners – The adhesive and chemical fasteners use glue, resin or epoxy to create a lock. Adhesive can also be applied separately to bond fasteners together or make the fasteners remain attached to the material for a longer duration. This type of locking method cannot be reused. Also, it is recommended to use this method where moisture and environmental conditions do not break down the adhesive. These type of fasteners are not commonly used in industrial settings.

TriState Locknuts is the leading manufacturer and processor of all metal prevailing locknuts. These locknuts reduce maintenance costs. You require no special tooling to remove and reinstall the nuts. This helps save both time and material cost. TriState is also an approved supplier of all metal prevailing torque locknuts to the government. All the locknuts are available at a competitive price.