When using fasteners to join two or more parts, you may want to secure them with locking wire. Fasteners can loosen over time. Loosening is particularly common with fasteners that are exposed to vibrations. Locking wire, however, will reinforce the fasteners so that they don’t loosen or otherwise fall off the parts with which they are used.
Easy to Use
Locking wire is easy to use. Also known as safety wire, it consists of metal wire. You can use locking wire by running it through a fastener or part, followed by twisting it around an adjacent fastener or part. There are other ways to use locking wire, but they all involve placing it through and/or around fasteners or parts; you don’t have to use any special tools to install locking wire.
Strong and Durable
You can rest assured knowing that locking wire is strong and durable. There are different types of locking wire, but they are all made of metal. Stainless steel is a common material used in the construction of locking wire. This iron alloy is strong, durable and resistant to corrosion. These properties make locking wire an attractive choice.
Prevents Vibration-Related Loosening
As previously mentioned, locking wire prevents vibration-related loosening. You can always join two or more parts using traditional fasteners like a bolt and nut. If the parts are exposed to vibrations, though, these fasteners may loosen. The nut may gradually work its way off the bolt. Once the nut has fallen off, the bolt may then fall off the parts. Locking wire will protect against vibration-related loosening such as this by reinforcing and holding the fasteners together.
Resists Tampering
A benefit of locking wire that’s often overlooked is tamper resistance. Locking wire can be used to provide tamper resistance by securing critical parts and preventing unauthorized access or modifications. You can use it to protect against tampering.
Inexpensive
Locking wire is inexpensive. There are other locking mechanisms available for parts and fasteners, such as adhesive-based threadlocker, but many of them cost more than locking wire. If you’re looking for an inexpensive locking mechanism, you can’t go wrong with locking wire. It costs less than other locking mechanisms, making it a popular choice for businesses on a budget.
Promotes Safety
Another benefit of locking wire is increased safety. It will increase the safety of equipment and machinery by holding the fasteners together. This helps to prevent accidents and injuries caused by loose or failing components.