In the world of manufacturing, engineering, and equipment maintenance, the security of a threaded assembly is a fundamental requirement. Components are constantly subjected to dynamic stresses, including vibration, thermal expansion, and shock loads, all of which can cause fasteners to loosen and fail. While traditional mechanical locking devices like lock washers and split pins offer some resistance, they are often not enough to ensure lasting reliability in demanding industrial environments.

For professionals, the solution lies in the strategic use of threadlockers. These anaerobic adhesives provide a robust, full-contact seal that not only locks fasteners in place but also protects against corrosion, ensuring the long-term integrity of a joint.

Beyond Lock Washers: Why Threadlockers Are a Modern Necessity

The limitations of traditional locking methods are clear. Lock washers can lose tension over time, while nylon inserts can be compromised by chemical exposure or high temperatures. Threadlockers, in contrast, offer a superior and more durable solution:

• Complete Gap-Filling: Anaerobic adhesives cure in the absence of oxygen, filling all microscopic voids between threads. This creates a solid, full-contact bond that prevents movement.
• Corrosion Protection: By completely sealing the threaded joint, threadlockers prevent the ingress of moisture, air, and corrosive chemicals, significantly extending the life of the fastener.
• Vibration & Shock Resistance: The cured adhesive provides a structural lock that resists loosening from constant vibration and impact, a critical benefit in machinery and equipment.
• A Targeted Solution: Unlike a single mechanical device, threadlockers come in a range of strengths and formulations, allowing professionals to choose the perfect product for a specific application.

Selecting the Right Threadlocker: A Targeted Approach

The key to a successful application is matching the threadlocker’s strength and properties to the specific needs of the job. The Incure Re-Lok™ series offers a comprehensive range of anaerobic threadlockers, each engineered for a distinct purpose.

For Light Duty & Servicing (Low Strength)

For small fasteners and assemblies that require frequent inspection or disassembly, a low-strength threadlocker is the ideal choice.

• Incure Re-Lok™ B22 Purple Threadlocking Adhesive is a low-strength, thixotropic adhesive designed for fasteners up to M6. Its controlled lubricity ensures precise clamp loads, and it can be easily disassembled with standard hand tools, making it perfect for small, serviceable assemblies where removability is a priority.

For General-Purpose & Oily Surfaces (Medium Strength)

Medium-strength threadlockers are the workhorses of many industrial applications, providing a reliable lock that can still be disassembled with hand tools when needed.

• Incure Re-Lok™ B43 Blue Threadlocking Adhesive is a medium-strength, oil-resistant formula that works effectively on inert and oily surfaces. Its fast curing and secure bonding make it ideal for machinery where fasteners up to M20 require reliable locking under challenging, oily conditions.
• Incure Re-Lok™ B90 Green Threadlocking Adhesive is a low-viscosity, wicking-grade adhesive. It is designed for locking and sealing pre-assembled bolts (M2 to M12). Its low viscosity allows it to penetrate into existing threads, making it a valuable tool for sealing porous metal parts and securing fasteners without the need for disassembly.

For Permanent & Extreme Applications (High Strength)

For mission-critical, permanent applications where the fastener should not be removed under normal circumstances, a high-strength threadlocker is required.

• Incure Re-Lok™ B77 Red Threadlocking Adhesive offers high strength with high viscosity and excellent chemical resistance. It is perfect for permanent locking and sealing of large bolts up to M36, providing long-lasting protection in harsh, chemical-rich environments. Disassembly requires heating and hand tools.
• Incure Re-Lok™ B72 Red Threadlocking Adhesive is a high-strength threadlocker engineered for extreme temperatures up to 230°C. It is ideal for locking and sealing cylinder threads and bolts up to M36 in heavy-duty applications exposed to high heat. Its fast curing and ability to work on uncleaned surfaces make it a practical solution for demanding environments.

Practical Insights for Threadlocking

• Match the Strength: The most critical decision is choosing the right strength. Do not use a high-strength threadlocker on a small fastener that may need to be disassembled.
• Surface Preparation: For optimal performance, always ensure threads are clean and free of grease and oil. However, formulations like Re-Lok™ B43 and B72 are designed to provide reliable results even on surfaces with some contamination.
• Wicking vs. Standard: Use a standard threadlocker (e.g., Re-Lok™ B43 or B77) before assembly. Use a wicking grade (Re-Lok™ B90) for fasteners that are already assembled.

The Incure Advantage: Engineered for Your Success

Choosing the right threadlocker is a critical decision that impacts the safety and longevity of your products and equipment. At Incure, we understand the stakes. Our Re-Lok™ series is not just a collection of adhesives; it is a comprehensive, purpose-built line of products designed and tested to solve the unique challenges you face.

Here’s how Incure can help individuals and professionals with their projects:

• Comprehensive Product Line: We offer a full spectrum of threadlockers, from low-strength removable to high-strength permanent solutions, including specialized formulations for high temperature and oily surfaces.
• Reliability & Performance: The Re-Lok™ series is built on the foundation of anaerobic technology, providing a reliable, full-contact seal that protects against loosening and corrosion.
• Technical Support: Our team of experienced professionals provides in-depth guidance on selecting the right adhesive for your mission-critical applications, ensuring you have the right solution for every challenge, every time.

Secure Your Assemblies with Confidence

The integrity of your threaded assemblies is the foundation of a safe and reliable operation. By choosing a high-performance threadlocker engineered for your specific needs, you are not just applying a product—you are investing in the security and longevity of your equipment.

Incure is dedicated to empowering industry professionals with the cutting-edge adhesive solutions and collaborative support needed to master their projects.

Contact Incure today to discuss your threadlocking requirements and discover how our Re-Lok™ series can secure your mission-critical applications.