The advantages to using threadlockers are as follows:
- They are low-cost materials. You do not need to spend much on a thread-locking fluid because it doesn’t cost a lot. It also reduces frequent purchase of screws and other fasteners.
- They prevent corrosion and leakage. Since the fluid covers the threads then hardens, it would also act as a protective coating to prevent corrosion and leakage.
- They are good for all shapes and sizes. It doesn’t matter what size or shape the fasteners are since they are fluid. You just need to apply it then it will work its magic.
- They keep fasteners locked and sealed. This is its primary purpose. They keep screws and other fasteners in their place even in the midst of vibration.
They are a better alternative to mechanical locking devices. Since it is a liquid that hardens at the absence of air, you won’t need to worry about rusting or corrosion unlike mechanical locking devices who are prone to rusting because of the moisture they attract. There are two major types of thread-locking fluids: permanent and removable. Permanent threadlocker, like the name implies, will remain in the fasteners unless forcefully taken off or until it wears off. Removable, on the other hand, allows you to remove the fasteners whenever you want.
How does it work? As the fluid hardens or cures with contact on active metals, it forms polymer chains that work their way to every corner of the threads. The adhesive completely fills the gaps in the threads to lock the fasteners in their place, preventing any movement and providing protection against corrosion and moisture.
It takes about 24 hours for threadlockers to fully harden but you can also speed it up with the use of heat. You can heat the fluid-covered fastener at 121°C for an hour. Unfortunately, heating it will also reduce its strength and effectiveness. They can also be applied to parts that were riddled in oil so long as the fastener has been wiped clean before applying the product.
They come in different viscosities: gel, liquid and semisolid. They also vary in strength. Low strength threadlockers allows you to disassemble fasteners easily with the use of hand tools. Medium strength gives difficulty in removing the fasteners even while using hand tools. High strength on the other hand can only be removed if heated.