Thread Locking Screws.

What are Thread Locking Screws?

Accu's thread-locking screws are specialist fasteners engineered with a pre-applied thread-locking compound that ensures a secure, vibration-resistant fit. Unlike traditional precision screws, these screws with thread lock feature a patch of pre-applied threadlocker on their threads. When tightened, this compound fills the gaps between the mating threads to help create a strong, reliable hold.

This design is particularly useful for high-vibration applications, keeping assemblies tight and reducing the risk of fasteners loosening over time. It's also highly beneficial in assembly line scenarios where a pre-applied threadlocker can reduce installation time significantly and reduce guesswork for how much to apply.

How Thread Locking Screws Work

When installed, the pre-applied thread lock creates friction between the surfaces of the screw and the component’s internal thread. This friction helps the screw stay firmly in place, even when it’s subjected to shocks or intense movement. Industries such as automotive, aerospace and electronics use thread-locking screws to keep assemblies safe and efficient, especially in critical equipment that must withstand constant vibration. Why not read our "What is Thread Lock?" article for a more thorough understanding?

In a real-life scenario, a thread-locked screw, on a robotic arm for example, can significantly reduce downtime by preventing the arm’s critical joints from loosening. By integrating these pre-applied thread-locking compound fasteners early in the assembly process, teams can save maintenance costs and enhance overall reliability.

Materials Thread Locking Screws Are Made From

Our range of locking compound screws is available in multiple high-grade materials to suit diverse environments. Stainless steel (A2) is popular for its general corrosion resistance, while marine stainless steel (A4) is ideal for saltwater and other corrosive settings.

For higher strength-to-weight ratios, titanium (Grade 5) is a go-to. Meanwhile, high-tensile stainless steels (A2-70, A2-80, A4-70, A4-80) deliver additional strength for demanding applications such as heavy machinery.

These material options allow you to balance cost, durability and weight based on your project’s specific requirements.

Size And Type Thread Locking Screws Available

At Accu, we stock metric thread locking screws from as small as M1 (1mm) to M52 (52mm), covering lengths from 2mm up to 500mm. For imperial, we offer thread sizes from 0-80 UNF to 1"-8 UNC in lengths ranging between 1/8" and 20". This range ensures you can find the perfect screw for intricate assemblies or large-scale industrial projects.

We offer various drive types, such as socket hex, Torx, Phillips and Pozi to name a few to suit your tooling needs. Head types also range from cap and button to countersunk, hexagon, grub (Set) and even more specialised forms like shoulder and flanged heads.

Most importantly, you can also customise the type of thread lock compound used like AccuLock (a low-strength reusable option effective at -50°C to 75°C), Anu-Lok 180 (a nylon patch variant for medium duty up to 120°C) or Precote 80 (a single-use high-strength epoxy threadlocker).

Each thread-locking screw features pre-applied thread sealant that can help reduce assembly time and ensure consistent results. Whether you’re building a single prototype or assembling millions of components, a reliable pre-applied thread-locking compound boosts productivity and lowers the risk of fastener failure.

FAQs

Q: How does pre-applied threadlocker work?

A: Pre-applied threadlocker is a specialised patch of compound applied directly to a screw’s threads during manufacture. Once the screw is installed, this compound is compressed between the male and female threads, forming a secure, vibration-resistant lock that prevents loosening over time.

Q: Which thread lock compound should I choose?

A: For low-strength, anti-vibration performance and reusability up to five times, AccuLock R360 is an ideal choice. For medium-duty use and higher temperature tolerance up to 120°C, Anu-Lok 180’s nylon patch performs reliably across multiple installations. Precote 80 is recommended for single-use, high-strength locking in demanding conditions up to 170°C, such as automotive or aerospace assemblies.

Bespoke Thread Locking Screws Manufacture.

High precision, bespoke manufacture of Thread Locking Screws to customer specification. State of the art facilities specialising in both small batch prototyping and large scale manufacture.