What is nyloc nut?
Nyloc nuts, also known as nylon-insert lock nuts, are a type of lock nut commonly used in mechanical and structural applications to prevent loosening due to vibration or torque. They feature a nylon insert within their collar, which makes contact with the threaded bolt when tightened. This creates friction that resists the nut loosening under dynamic conditions.
Key Features of Nyloc Nuts:
- Nylon Insert: The main distinguishing feature. The nylon deforms slightly as the nut is threaded onto a bolt, providing a secure grip.
- Reusable: They can be reused, but their locking effectiveness decreases after repeated use as the nylon insert wears down.
- Vibration Resistance: Especially useful in applications where vibration or movement could cause standard nuts to come loose.
- Material Options: Typically made from stainless steel, brass, or other metals, and the nylon insert is usually resistant to chemicals and oils.
- Sizes: Available in various sizes to suit different applications, from small electronics to large industrial machinery.
Common Applications:
- Automotive assemblies.
- Machinery and equipment.
- Aerospace components.
- Building and construction projects.
- Sporting goods and recreational vehicles.
Their use is widespread because they provide a simple, effective, and cost-efficient method of securing fasteners.
What is the material grades of nyloc nut and what is the material specification of nylon insert?
Material Grades of Nyloc Nuts
Nyloc nuts are made from various metal grades to suit specific applications, and their material grade often corresponds to the application’s strength, corrosion resistance, and environmental requirements. Common materials include:
- Carbon Steel
- Grades: 4, 5, 8, and 10 (ISO or SAE standards)
- Surface Treatment: Often zinc-plated or galvanized to resist corrosion.
- Stainless Steel
- Grades: A2-70, A2-80 (304 stainless steel equivalents) or A4-70, A4-80 (316 stainless steel equivalents).
- Features: Highly resistant to corrosion and suitable for marine or chemical environments.
- Brass
- Features: Resistant to corrosion, especially in non-sparking or decorative applications.
- Alloy Steel
- High tensile strength for heavy-duty or high-stress environments. Often used in aerospace or industrial settings.
- Aluminum
- Lightweight, suitable for low-stress applications where weight is critical.
Material Specification of the Nylon Insert
The nylon insert in Nyloc nuts is typically made from polyamide 6 (PA6) or polyamide 66 (PA66), which are types of engineering plastics. These materials are chosen for their strength, durability, and resistance to deformation under load.
Key Specifications:
- Material Type:
- Nylon 6 (PA6) or Nylon 66 (PA66).
- Properties:
- Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +120°C (with some grades up to +150°C).
- Resistance to Chemicals: Resistant to oils, greases, and some solvents; susceptible to strong acids and alkalis.
- Elasticity: Provides a tight grip and allows minor deformation to securely lock threads.
- Self-Lubricating: Reduces friction during assembly.
- Standards:
- The nylon material often complies with engineering standards like ISO 1043 or ASTM D4066 for polyamides.
- Customization:
- Enhanced nylon formulations may be used for high-temperature or chemically aggressive environments.
The combination of the metal body and nylon insert makes Nyloc nuts versatile, enabling them to perform in a wide variety of demanding conditions.
Here is an image of nyloc nuts in various sizes and materials, showcasing their hexagonal shape and the nylon insert within their collars.