A Complete Guide to Thread Lock

There are many benefits and advantages to using thread lock, including:

• Versatility and adaptability

• Suitability for use with a wide range of materials and components

• Protects against corrosion

• Ease of application

• Lubricates threads

• Provides a high level of chemical resistance

Thread Lock Strengths

Thread lock is typically available in three different strengths – low, medium, and high. Each has unique benefits and best-suited applications, so the best strength thread lock will ultimately depend on your specific project requirements.

Low Strength

• Best suited to use with small parts

• Straightforward to remove

Medium Strength

• Can be used with larger components

• Designed to be removed with hand tools

High Strength

• Suitable for use with the largest fasteners

• Localised heat will be required for removal

Thread Lock Colours

Thread lock can also be categorised by colour. In the majority of cases, the different colours typically refer to the different grades of thread locker. In essence, think of it as a handy colour code designed to help you distinguish between the different types. While not all manufacturers use this colour code, many leading brands such as Loctite do. Therefore, it is important to ensure you are aware of the meaning behind each colour.

Applications and Uses

Thread locker uses are varied and can encompass a wide range of applications and environments. However, in simple terms, thread lock is primarily used to prevent unwanted loosening of fasteners.

Some of the most notable thread lock applications include:

• Securing components and assemblies

• Protecting against loosening via vibration or thermal expansion

• Acting as a sealant to protect against potential leaks

• Providing a certain level of corrosion resistance

• Acting as a thread lubricant

• Keeping assemblies in good working order

Additional uses for thread lock are explained below.

Types of Thread Locker

There are various forms of thread locker, each best suited to different applications and environments. The different types of thread locker are available in a range of strengths, including low-strength, medium-strength, and high-strength adhesive. However, it should be noted that even high-strength threadlocking types are not permanent and all forms of thread locker can be removed with the application of heat, tools, and varying levels of effort.

Some of the key types of thread lock are detailed below.

FAQs

What Materials Can Be Used with Thread Lock?

Thread lock can be used on a wide array of different materials, including plastics, composites, and metals. Some types of thread lock are best suited for use with specific materials, so be sure to double-check before use. It is also worth noting that you may find it advantageous to use a specialist primer before applying thread lock with certain materials such as inactive metals (plated or oxidised metals, for example).

How Long Does Thread Lock Take to Cure?

Various factors dictate the length of time that thread lock takes to cure, and you should always take care to familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s guidelines before use as cure time will vary between different thread locking products.

Other considerations you should bear in mind include:

• The material where the thread lock will be applied

• Environmental factors such as temperature

• The size of the part or component and the amount of adhesive required

However, with that in mind, most standard types of thread lock have a curing time of 24 hours. Some quick-drying varieties take only 1-3 hours to cure, while others can take up to 72 hours for full curing.

How Do You Remove a Fastener Once Thread Lock is Cured?

Thread lock is not a permanent solution, but the ease of removal will depend on the strength of the particular adhesive in question. Low and medium-strength thread lock should be fairly straightforward to remove with the application of standard hand tools. However, higher-strength thread lock will likely need the use of localised heat as well as hand tools to be successfully removed.

Once the adhesive has been removed, you should be able to easily access the fastener or component as usual. Thread lock is a popular option thanks to the ease of disassembly it offers, especially when compared to alternative types of adhesive.