Lock Nuts also know as locknuts or locking nuts provide secure connection of a threaded fastener. These Lock Nuts used alone or in combination with a standard nut depending on the style will keep the connection from becoming loose. These nuts are most commonly used where a locking style washer is not recommended.
What are the advantages of using a Lock Nut over a Standard Nut?
The main reason would be that the Lock Nut prevents loosing of the fastened connection because of vibration or torque. No locking style washer is needed.
What are the most common styles on Lock Nuts and their locking features?
- Distorted thread — has a deformed section of thread
- Serrated Flanged — has ridges on the enlarged face of the nut
- Nylon Inserted — has a nylon ring around the top of the nut
- Keps Nut — has a attached star washer
- Jam nut — narrow nut used to jam against a regular nut
- Castellated — Has slot cut in top to accommodate a locking pin or wire
- Speed Nut — a flat nut that treads up to back of a regular nut
What are the alternatives to using a Lock Nut?
A liquid compound known as liquid thread locker that is applied to the threads of the fastener has been developed to do the same function. These compound are wildly used because the flexibility and low cost. They are engineered in different strengths and properties for specific applications.