Swagefast gives a few tips on what to consider when selecting thread lockers

Factors to Consider When Selecting Threadlockers 

A number of factors must be considered to ensure selecting the right thread locking adhesive for an application. In certain applications, bolts must be removable and reusable for ongoing equipment maintenance and repair. 




Contrary to common belief, any bolt that has been locked with thread locking adhesive may be reused by removing old adhesive before applying new and reassembling. Thread lockers are available in low strength formulations for easy removal, medium strength grades that can be removed using common hand tools, and high strength formulations that offer the highest holding abilities. 

However, no thread lockers are permanent; even the highest strength thread lockers can be removed using standard hand tools following direct exposure to 450°F temperatures. The strength and viscosity of the adhesive needed for an application are directly related to the size of the fastener used. Low strength thread lockers are used on screws up to ¼-inch in diameter, such as adjustment and calibration screws, meters, gauges, and other fasteners that will need ongoing adjustment. 

Medium strength materials are for fasteners up to ¾ inch in diameter used in machine tools and presses, pumps, compressors, and as mounting bolts. High strength thread lockers are best used on fasteners up to one inch in diameter found in permanent assembly applications such as heavy equipment and a variety of mounts. Low viscosity penetrating thread locking formulations are also available that easily wick into pre-assembled fasteners up to ½ inch in diameter. 

The operating conditions of the end use environment also dictate the thread locking formulation that should be selected. The newest thread locking technologies offer many advantages formerly unavailable, including surface insensitive varieties, high temperature formulations, chemically resistant materials, and formulations engineered to withstand extreme vibration. 


The type of metal used on the fastener is also critical to the performance of the adhesive. If the fastener is made of two inactive metals such as stainless steel, zinc, magnesium, black oxide, cadmium, anodized aluminium, or passivated titanium, a primer may be required to facilitate cure. If only one inactive metal is present, however, no primer will be required.