CLICK HERE FOR INDEX PAGE
 
LOCK NUTS
V. Ryan © 2004 - 2018
 

Lock nuts are very useful and are used by engineers and mechanics. The diagram opposite shows a wheel pushed onto a threaded shaft. Washers are placed on either side of the wheel and a lock nut is finally threaded in position. This is a highly effective method of securing a wheels on shafts / axles.
 

 
 
 

A close look at the lock nut shows that it has a nylon sleeve. As the nut is tightened, the thread on the shaft / axle cuts into the nylon, holding it firmly in position.
As the wheel rotates a normal nut will loosen because of friction and vibration of the wheel. However, the nylon holds the nut firmly in position.

An alternative is to use two threaded nuts as seen in the drawing above. The second locks the first in position and in this way keeps the wheel firmly in position.
 
 
 

PDF FILE - CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE VERSION OF EXERCISE SHOWN BELOW

 
 
   

QUESTIONS:

1. Draw a sketch showing the use of lock nuts, as shown above.

2. Explain how and why they are used.

   
   

CLICK HERE FOR RESISTANT MATERIALS INDEX PAGE

   
 
Google
 
Web www.technologystudent.com