A Lockwire is a locking device for nuts, bolts and any other fastener in its original spot and works against forces like a vibration that could be acting upon that point. However, are you aware of any particulars that result in a range of sizes, grades, and colors? Well, the first thing that you need to know is that you must always choose products that are certified. Also, you need to take into account various aspects discussed here.
Safety locking wire sizes
Most locking wires have a standard size ranging from 0.20” to 0.40″. These are the sizes used for some common applications. Nonetheless, you need to know that the size is usually factored in relation to the forces that are expected to act upon it. This brings you this mantra; the greater the anticipated force, the larger the safety locking wire required.
You can have a custom wire but in most cases, choosing standard sizes is a good decision. However, if you feel that the standard sizes may not serve you well, you can make your order. There are companies that can create custom lock wires for you. This may, however, come at a higher cost compared to those wires already in the shop.
Lock wire grades
A long time ago, this wire was made in various alloys like Inconel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and Monel. Nowadays you can find such alloys of stainless, Inconel, and Monel 316 or even 304. These are mostly utilized in high-risk applications. This is because they offer good strength balance, and are resistant to corrosion across different environments, particularly at high temperatures. From such characteristics, you can conclude that they are durable and can serve you well.
Colors
There are two factors of lock wire when it comes to color. To start, you can have a purely natural finish, but this would greatly depend on your application. Here, you get shiny silver or some kind of oxidized finish. So if that is what you need, you can choose between the two. In addition, you can have traditional colors. These colors are linked to the alloy or grade that you choose.
Bottom line
If you have a part in your automotive that may experience much vibration; you need to protect the nuts or bolts that hold certain parts together. You can achieve that by buying some safety lock wire. Do not wait until the nuts and bolts become loose due to the much vibration that they face.
You can choose the grades you want. Also, there are various sizes which may depend on your application. If you do not find a good size, you can have custom lock wire from certain companies that offer that service. Make sure you protect your bolts and any other parts that vibrate a lot. The safety lock wire will counter the forces acting upon the bolts. The wire is safe, strong, and can withstand high temperatures if applied in extremely hot parts.
