Threaded fasteners are basically detachable adhesive hardware, used in machinery design and assembly setups. Threadlockers are used to seal the gaps between the male and female threads of a threaded joint. Loctite threadlockers have emerged as the universal choice in this segment, found in practically every mechanical assembly unit. Some threadlockers are potent enough to provide permanent, holding together function for critical parts in machinery. Installing a reliable, uniform and tight threadlocker is important because any failure in their functioning can seriously damage the machine and threaten safety of the machine operator. In this discussion, we dissect the topic, delving deeper into buying threadlockers, parameters you should know about thread sealants and how to make an informed choice.
Buying Threadlockers – be Alert, be Educated
If you are going to buy threadlocking equipment from the market, make sure that it is high on reliability. It should have a high torque control, should be able to reduce galling and provide controlled torque during assembly. Don’t opt for the cheapest options. You don’t want expensive machinery to crash and translate into escalated repair costs. Opt for threadlocking solutions that have made a mark in the industry, across the world—for instance, Loctite Threadlockers are known to use the best in chemical compounds to keep the adhesive in fluid state with quick curing time at room temperature, even in heavy-duty application settings. You get the assurance of a threadlocking product that can easily and uniformly spread across, fill the groves of threaded fasteners and create a sealed surface that is impossible to breach!
Bolt size, curing time and environment need to be considered before selecting a thread locker. Also, you need to consider the cases where surface activation is needed.
Consider the Bolt Size
Bolts in bigger sizes are generally found in critical structures that do not require frequent disassembly (above M20) and therefore require high/permanent strength threadlockers. In structures where smaller sized screws are already assembled, wicking grade or green thread locker are most widely used. Wicking thread lockers have low viscosity due to which they are able to flow and settle within the gaps in the screws. We would recommend Loctite 243 as the best option for medium strength applications while Loctite 263 is more suitable for permanent applications. Loctite 270, 2701 are best suited for high strength and high temperature applications.
The Need for Surface Activation
While some surfaces require activation before you can use the thread locker, others do not need any surface preparation. Active substrates like MS and non-coated surfaces do not need surface preparation and here the thread locker can be used directly. Passive substrates like plated zinc, stainless steel and aluminum need an activator such as Loctite 7471 to activate the surface so that it can be used in tandem with the thread locker. Activation charges the surface with positive ions making the locking more proficient and long-lasting. All thread lockers work generally up to 150 degrees Celsius. Pipe threads in acid environments and high temperature (54 °C to 1,315 °C) require Anti Seize compounds like LOCTITE® Nickel Anti-Seize Lubricant for lubricating and sealing.
Easily Removable?
In certain applications, bolts should be removable for repairing and maintenance. If you happen to have such bolts and handles, we suggest you to use a threadlocker of low-strength formulation for easy removal. You might pick a Loctite Threadlocker with medium strength, so that you can easily remove it using standard, handheld tools. Though high strength threadlockers can also be easily removed by exposing to high temperature and using power tools, it is always better to proceed by identifying the application and then choosing the most relevant Loctite Threadlocker.
Size of the Fastener Matters!
Strength and viscosity of any adhesive is directly proportional to the size of the fastener. Low-strength threadlockers that are usually used with screws are M6 in their diameter – they are used for adjustment and calibrations purposes. Medium-strength fasteners are just about M12 in diameter and are used with machine tools, presses, pumps, mounting bolts and compressors. High-strength threadlockers are definitely the best choice when you want a more durable, longer-lasting sealant application. (More than M20)
Lastly, seek a retail point where you get threadlockers systematically categorized in accordance with their type of application. Threadlockers are now expected to meet industry standards in terms of chemical stability and ease of application. This is why Loctite Threadlockers is assumed to have no competition in the market—this is the best threadlocking product money can buy!
New threadlocking technologies are emerging in the market to offer advantages to the customers that were not available before—making it difficult to buy a threadlocker. Read about how to choose threadlockers and why Loctite threadlockers bundle all the advantages associated with different surfaces, different temperature conditions, surface resistance, and unique application challenges.
