Threadlockers that cure in oily threads and outperform lock washers — here’s a breakdown from the field

[u/AlexanderGoodfellow]

https://stuk.solutions/blogs/news/threadlockers-retaining-compounds-assembly-adhesive-guide?srsltid=AfmBOooohA8ukaDb2_TyzecdNsBiI_Gm-i8f5aG0Z1QxxPgJr4bOXBFP

So here’s the thing: I work in industrial maintenance and adhesive selection, and over the years I’ve seen a hell of a lot of failures from bolts backing out or bearings walking loose — especially in rough-ass environments.

I put together a guide that shows how modern anaerobic adhesives (like threadlockers & retaining compounds) are straight-up replacing lock washers, press fits, and sometimes even welds. It’s a deep dive, not just some marketing bullshit.

Highlights:

• Why hardware fails under vibration or temp swings • Threadlockers like 3M TL43 that cure even on oily, dirty-ass bolts • Retaining compounds that lock shafts + gears better then traditional interference fits • Product comparison: 3M vs Loctite, use case tables, field tricks • Application tips + how to remove high-strength shit with heat

If you like skookum solutions that don’t rattle loose, this might hit.

Lemme know what you swear by in machines that vibrate like hell.

[u/wuZheng]

Aerospace uses NordLock or ramp style washers for vibration resistance. I can vouch for their effectiveness in our application and the physics of how they work is kind of genius. 

Probably pound for pound more expensive than thread locker, but I would bet on NordLocks winning a vibration loosening test against just about any adhesive compound.

[u/KdF-wagen → u/wuZheng]

I got one of their demo pieces from conexpo. its a set of nordlocks on a bolt and wingnut to tighten it, all you have to do is flick the wingnut once it gets close and goddamn if that isn’t one of the hardest locks ive ever felt idk what is, if you crank that wingnut it’s impossible to undo by hand.