Wondering which threadlocker to use on your repair or assembly? There are several kinds to choose from...and your choice matters. Don’t get confused – get educated with our quick and easy guide to Loctite threadlocker.
Threadlockers are simply adhesives that are applied to a bolt or other threaded item just before screwing it into place to keep it from loosening up later. Think of it as Loctite for bolts. Thread locking adhesives are recommended when a bolt or fastener is going to be subjected to a lot of vibration or other constant stress that might cause it to loosen up on its own. They are crucial when a loose bolt might cause a machine to fail, potentially leading to an accident.
Threadlockers come in various strengths and qualities and are often distinguished by different colours. You will find low, medium, and high-strength threadlockers as well as some that have additional advantages, such as also acting as a sealant to prevent leakage and corrosion.
A low-strength threadlocker can be used to keep a fastener tight, but it is an item that will often need to be disassembled for maintenance or adjustment. This type of bond can easily be broken with hand tools. Medium-strength threadlocker is used where adhesion is more critical and disassembly would be only occasional, say, for repair. This variety is usually removed with power tools. High-strength or permanent thread lock is called for when disassembly is not likely or failure would be disastrous. This type of bond is broken with a combination of heat and power tools.
Using a threadlocker is very simple. Just apply a small amount of threadlocker to the front threads of the bolt. As it screws into place, the thread lock glue will coat the threads and harden. Only a small amount is needed – often just a drop or two.
Loctite has a full line of thread locking adhesives for all your needs. Here are a few highlighted products.
Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 is designed to lock and seal bolts that require regular disassembly with hand tools. Threadlocker Blue prevents not only loosening but also rust and corrosion.
Loctite Threadlocker 243 is the perfect medium-strength threadlocker that stands up to high temperatures and will even cure in less than perfect conditions. It also creates a reliable seal, keeping fluids from leaking past the bolt.
When fastener integrity is crucial, use Loctite Threadlocker Red 271. It is designed to permanently lock and seal threaded fasteners and will stand up to extreme vibration and heat. It is only removable by heating the parts to 260°C (500°F).