Between a lock washer vs Loctite glue, which one is a cheaper and lasting solution? Read on to discover how the two compare.
I have always had a problem fastening the brake levers on my mountain bike. the bolts keep loosening whenever I ride on rough patches. A friend of mine advised I get metal fasteners to improve the strength of the bolts and nuts. I went for flat washers because I was more familiar with them. I soon discovered that lock washers are more ideal because they lock the bolt and joint surface. Though this works, I did not fancy the idea of carrying a box of lock washers around whenever I am cycling. This is when I discovered Loctite glue. It is a small tube that fits into my pocket but has the power of binding joints. In this review, I compare lock washer and Loctite glue to help you make an informed decision when buying fasteners.
Differences Between Lock Washer and Loctite-How Do They Compare?
| Lock Washer | Loctite | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Threadlocking Glue |
| Quantity | 100 pieces | Single,2, 5, and 12 Pack |
| Application | Helps tighten joints | Binds Bolt and Nuts |
| Check price | Check price |
Lock Washer vs Loctite- A Detailed Comparison
Functionality
How easy is it to work with lock washers and Loctite glue? Lock washers have been around for a while and are the choice fasteners for most domestic and commercial projects. Loctite threadlocking glue came about when fasteners became inefficient. The discovery of Loctite glue was to stop bolt joints from loosening.
Not all lock washers are able to withstand vibration loosening. For split lock washers, they contain a split end that locks onto the bolt and joining surface. This helps stop the bolt from rotating and loosening under high vibration. For this to work, one has to ensure they do not screw the washers too tight. This ends up flattening the split end rendering the washer ineffective.
Loctite threadlocking glue hardens once applied on a surface. The glue fills up the thread lines of a bolt. As you tighten a nut over the thread, it creates a vacuum which enables the glue to harden. This forms a firm bond which prevents the bolt from rotating.
Experts argue that Loctite glue is more effective because it has a wide surface area for bonding. For lock washers, it is possible for the split ends to wear off causing the bolt to loosen. Threadlocking glue offers a more permanent solution for fortifying joints.
Quantity
How many lock washers or how much glue do you need to complete your project? Lock washers come in packages that contain up to 100 lock washer pieces. This can be enough to cover your entire project. You also have extra washers to replace the ruined ones. For larger applications, you might want to get several packs.
Loctite glue comes in a 0.2 oz. bottle. You only need to apply a small amount of glue on thread lines to adhere to the nut. One tube is ideal for a small assembling project. You can also get Loctite glue in packs contain 2, 5, or 12 threadlocking glue tubes.
Application
How versatile is a lock washer or Loctite glue in application? Lock washers are applicable in any project where you are working with joints. These washers boast of a stainless steel construction. It makes them ideal for projects that involve extreme conditions.
Though Loctite glue is as effective as lock washers, it has its limitations. It is not applicable in extreme situations like the presence of high heat.
Lock Washer
Split lock washers are handy when you want to maintain the integrity of a joint even in extreme condition. This particular lock washer comes on a convenient pack containing 100 pieces. These are enough washers to last you through your refurbishing project.
Each lock washer boasts of premium 830666 stainless steel. The washers are durable and have top notch performance in extreme situations. If you are working on joints that will easily succumb to extreme heat or vibrations, lock washers can help keep the joints stead.
A split lock washer distribute pressure evenly in joints. Since pressure is not exerted on one area alone, the chances of the bolt loosening are slim. These washers help fortify the joints of furniture, electric appliances, or industrial equipment.
Pros
- Tough durable material
- Enough pieces to last a full project
- Ideal for heavy duty projects
Cons
- No color variety
Loctite
Loctite threadlocking adhesive is a quick-fix solution for binding joints. This adhesive glue spreads evenly on thread lines and hardens under airtight conditions. This establishes a strong bond that prevents bolts from loosening under vibration.
One tube contains 0.2 oz. of threadlocking glue. Apply a fine layer of glue on bolt thread lines before screwing in the nut. The airtight environment created by screwing the nut allows the glue to harden and bond. This is a cost effective way of ensuring your bolts do not loosen under vibration.
Once applied, allow the glue to set for about 10 minutes. Give the joint 24 hours to fully dry before testing it. This threadlocking adhesive is ideal for use when repairing or refurbishing mowers or small electrical appliances.
Pros
- Spreads evenly on thread lines
- Forms a strong airtight bond
- Not bulky to carry
Cons
- Can be messy to work with.
Conclusion
Since I am always looking for quick fix solutions to holding nuts and bolts together, I can say Loctite is my preferred fastener. It reduces the bulk of carrying fasteners and still prevents bolts from loosening under vibration.
FAQ
How long does Loctite glue dry?
It should take about 10 minutes for the threadlocking adhesive to set. Give the bond up to 24 hours to fully dry.
Can you use Lock washer with Loctite?
Both lock washer and Loctite work as fasteners. You do not need Loctite if you already have lock washers.
Do I need to replace lock washers?
Lock washer have a stainless steel body that makes them durable. They are easy to replace when they wear out as well.
How much Loctite should I apply?
Apply a thin layer of Loctite on bolt thread and allow it to set. Applying too much threadlocking glue will make it impossible to unscrew the nut later.