Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
(OP)
We have an exterior base plate in a dry climate for a very light weight sign. Client doesn't normally use grout, and that's how most of these are done around here so they can easily swap out the sign as the tenant changes over the years (when axial load and bending on plate don't require the bearing area of the grout).
Anyway, so we have leveling nuts, and some architect or something that reviewed the plans asked the question about using a locking thread adhesive (like Loctite) for the leveling nuts, to which I kind of want to say "are you kidding me?"...never heard of using it in this application, or, at least never heard of the structural engineering specifying it.
If my client wants to use it, then fine, but I don't really see a need for me to specify...
Thoughts??
Anyway, so we have leveling nuts, and some architect or something that reviewed the plans asked the question about using a locking thread adhesive (like Loctite) for the leveling nuts, to which I kind of want to say "are you kidding me?"...never heard of using it in this application, or, at least never heard of the structural engineering specifying it.
If my client wants to use it, then fine, but I don't really see a need for me to specify...
Thoughts??





RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
The Caltrans report "Evaluation of Several Brands of Anaerobic Threadlocking Compounds Used for Various Bolting Applications" covers testing performed for the US Federal Highway Administration. Products are considered acceptable for certain structural uses.
Your client probably wants a "weaker" thread-locking blend so the nuts can be turned in the future.
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RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
Dik
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
Dik
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
1. The leveling nuts are intended for reuse in the future.
2. The Client wants to use threadlocking compound on the leveling nuts, even though it may not be needed.
3. Thanks to Caltrans, you have now heard that (at least in principle) there are structural applications for threadlocking compounds.
4. Should you "just leave up to the installer...?".
IMHO... No Way! If the installer does something "stupid", it is YOUR fault. You are in a better (technical) position to make the decision.
Seems like a good time for some "technology transfer". Loctite is widely used (successfully) in industry. Take the time to find out (and learn) about it. I've attached a basic "decision tree" on which Loctite product to use for various applications. NONE of the recommendations will apply to your situation... so use engineering judgement. To me, either the low strength (purple) or medium strength (blue) would be a reasonable choice. The nice thing is that even if the threadlocking compound "fails", the leveling nuts will be just fine.
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RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
Easy to apply to the top nut, and if the leveling plate is slotted, pretty easy to apply to the under-nut also.
https://ir0.mobify.com/600/https://www.transpo.com...
It might be easier and "fool proof" to use nuts with nylon locking pellets, but the anchor bolts will need to be nicely deburred to avoid tearing up the pellets.
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
How removable is Loctite 290? I was under the impression that was permanent.
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JHG
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
RE: Thread Locking Adhesive on leveling nuts?
For Disassembly
1. Remove with standard hand tools.
2. In rare instances where hand tools do not work because of excessive engagement length, apply localized heat to nut or bolt to approximately 250 °C. Disassemble while hot.
270 Works QUITE well on assembled carb adjustment screws that run thru brackets ( limited engagement) that by design may have had a tensioning spring or less. Like the fast idle screw here -
http://carbkitsource.com/carbs/tech/Ford/4100/expl...
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For REAL fasteners in bolted structural joints I concentrate on enlisting proper (sufficient) tightening/clamping and joint preparation and smooth hard washers and ≥ 7 diameters of grip length etc to take loosening out of the equation.
I suppose Adding a little Loctite might help with total fastener loss during the zombie apocalypse, but I would never ask it to prevent structural fastener loosening