Two Way Reversible Lock Nuts in Zinc Plated Steel

Hex Centerlock All Metal Lock Nuts

Two-way Reversible Lock Nuts (also known as Centerlock Nuts) get their name because of the distorted thread in the middle and ability to be used either top-up or top-down. The distorted internal threads increase resistance on the mating part. This creates a locking mechanism in the center of the nut, which helps it resist loosening from vibration. With the locking mechanism being at the center of the nut, centerlock nuts can be started from either side.

Having the locking portion within the hex nut offers several benefits, including versatility in application, application speed (which helps on assembly lines), and application environment versatility. All metal lock nuts can be used in high heat or highly corrosive applications where a nylon insert would not be suitable. Bolts or Screws used with Two Way Reversible Lock Nuts can also be shorter than the nut because the locking occurs in the center. For this reason, the end of the bolt or screw does not have to extend beyond the end of the nut.

All Centerlock nuts feature indentations on the nut's outside flats to mark them as center locking nuts. They would otherwise be indistinguishable from standard hex nuts.

Zinc Plated Steel

Zinc is by far the most common and economical type of plating for fasteners. The zinc plating adds a protective "sacrificial" top layer against corrosion while also adding a shiny finish to the fastener. Zinc plating is ideal for indoor use where it won't be constantly exposed to harsh elements.

---

FAQs

What is a reverse lock nut?

Reversible lock nuts are nuts with distorted threading in the middle of the nut, which causes a locking action when a screw or bolt is threaded through it. Because the distortion is in the center, reverse lock nuts can be started from either side. They are also known as two-way and center lock nuts.

What is a center lock nut?

Centerlock nuts are all-metal lock nuts with distorted threading in the center of the nut. The distorted threading increases the friction between the nut and screw being fastened through it, increasing the nut's resistance to loosening over time. Because the distortion is in the middle of the nut, it can be installed from either side. This is why center lock nuts are also known as two-way or reversible lock nuts.

How do you tighten a centerlock nut?

Center lock nuts can be tightened by turning them clockwise onto the bolt, screw, or stud they are being installed on. They are installed the same way as standard hex nuts and can be started from either side of the nut. Unlike standard hex nuts, however, center lock nuts are much harder to unfasten.

What are locking nuts for?

Lock nuts are an easy to use, cost-effective solution to protecting against vibration-related loosening. They're used to protect applications from loosening over time.

What is zinc plated steel?

Zinc plated steel is steel that goes through the process of adding a layer or coating of zinc to protect the steel from corrosion. The added layer of zinc sacrifices itself to keep the steel from rusting, even if the plating is damaged.

Is zinc plated steel rust proof?

No. Zinc plating adds a layer of corrosion resistance for rust protection. Still, it's a thin plating, and it's not as rust resistant as hot-dip galvanizing, which also uses a zinc top layer. While not the most corrosive resistant of materials, zinc plating is easily the most economical and commonly used.

Can zinc plated steel be used outside?

Zinc plating is not a good form of corrosive protection for outdoor use, especially near saltwater or in marine environments. For those applications, stainless steel or potentially hot-dip galvanized steel would work better. Zinc-plated steel is better for indoor use.