Prevailing-Torque Locking Wire Thread Inserts
This insert is wound from high-strength stainless steel wire with a standard free-running coil section plus a polygonal locking section. As the bolt passes through the locking coil, the coil deflects and grips the thread flanks, generating a repeatable prevailing torque that holds the bolt against rotation — meeting the functional principle of prevailing-torque type steel locking elements.
Because the locking force is produced by the insert geometry rather than a patch, it is insensitive to temperature well beyond the range of nylon patches, is immediately re-usable after removal, and adds no chemical contamination to the joint. The insert also converts soft parent threads in aluminum, magnesium and cast iron into a durable, wear-resistant steel thread.
Used in automotive powertrain and chassis joints, aerospace and low-altitude aircraft assemblies, rail equipment, and industrial electronics where bolted joints in light alloys must resist vibration and thermal cycling.
