For reusability, what can I expect on the 5th, 10th, and 50th installations?
Our tests show a natural and normal decline in the prevailing torque on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd installations and then a "plateauing" effect to infinity. The result will, in fact, exceed any applicable IFI (Industrial Fastener Institute) standard by a wide margin. Remember, torque is not a condition necessary for absolute performance of the Security Locknut. (The typical standard for prevailing torque locknuts is IFI100/107).

Why are Security Locknuts the answer to my fastener problems? How do they work so well, even in the most extreme environments?
The secret lies in the one part/two piece design. By separating the locking feature (insert) from the loading feature (nut body), we can overcome the most severe vibration problems. The body carries the load, and the insert does the locking. The nut is designed so that the insert actually raises away from the nut body, thus creating "isolation" from the load. This is true REGARDLESS of your ability to achieve "perfect" torque. You could say the Security Locknut is a forgiving or "compensating" locknut.

What are your recommended installation torques?
Our standard product is designed to achieve Grade 5 or 8 installation torques depending on the product type ordered. Click here for a table showing our recommended installation torques.

What is "prevailing torque"? I always thought that the higher the prevailing torque the better the lock. Is this true?
Absolutely not! When using more "traditional" locknuts, a high prevailing torque indicates the presence of friction and galling. The nut holds the bolt by, in effect, "self-tapping" or cold welding itself onto the threads. This is NOT a desirable result, especially for resusable parts. Security Locknuts deliver the load to the bolt more efficiently, effectively, and consistently than "traditional" locknuts.

Due to the spring action of the locking insert and its unique engineered design, Security Locknut prevailing torques are as much as 80% - 90% less than other "high performance" locknuts. Nylon, distorted, and "flex-type" locknuts all rely on a self-tapping or high friction/galling fit. On the other hand, Security Locknuts use spring action and separation of the locking and loading feature to achieve their lock. The result is a better locking feature with a lower prevailing torque resulting in a more efficient, secure joint.

In order to increase input torque efficiency even more, we recommend use of a lubricant (such as ANTI-SIEZE) with all of our parts, especially sizes over 1". A lubricant will not affect performance, however, we do recommend installation torques be adjusted for the lubrication factor.