Prevailingtorquenötter

Prevailingtorquenötter, commonly known as prevailing torque nuts or self-locking nuts, are fasteners designed to resist loosening due to vibration and torque. Their mechanism relies on creating a higher friction force between the nut and the bolt threads than would be present in a standard nut. This increased friction prevents the nut from backing off under dynamic loads.

There are several types of prevailing torquenötter, each employing a different method to achieve self-locking. One common design incorporates a deformed section, often at the top of the nut, which creates a tight fit against the bolt threads. This deformation can be achieved through various manufacturing processes, resulting in an elliptical or oval shape. As the nut is threaded onto the bolt, this deformed section grips the bolt threads, generating the necessary prevailing torque.

Another type utilizes an integrated locking element, such as a nylon insert or a metal cap, which deforms and presses against the bolt threads. The nylon insert, often referred to as a nyloc nut, deforms and bites into the bolt threads, creating a friction lock. Metal prevailing torque nuts might feature a split collar or a specially shaped insert that wedges against the bolt.

Prevailing torquenötter are widely used in applications where vibration is a significant concern, such as in automotive assemblies, machinery, and aerospace components. They provide a reliable and often reusable solution for maintaining the integrity of bolted joints, reducing the need for secondary locking devices like lock washers or cotter pins. The effectiveness of these nuts is measured by the amount of torque required to both install and remove them.