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Plain Steel Slotted Hex Nuts

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Why Choose Plain Steel Slotted Hex Nuts?

Our plain steel slotted hex nuts at AlbanyCountyFasteners.com, also known as plain steel castle nuts, are hexagonal nuts with slots cut into the top, designed for use with a cotter pin to lock the nut in place, preventing rotation in high-vibration applications. Made from low carbon steel (Grade 2) without a coating, these nuts are a cost-effective solution for dry, non-corrosive indoor environments. Their hexagonal shape allows easy wrench tightening, ensuring secure fastening. Available in imperial sizes like 1/4"-20, 5/16"-18, 3/8"-16 to 1"-8, they meet ASME B18.2.2, IFI tolerances, REACH, and RoHS standards, making them ideal for automotive, machinery, and industrial projects requiring reliable locking on a budget.

  • Vibration Resistance: Slots allow cotter pin locking to prevent loosening.
  • Cost-Effective: Affordable for high-volume, indoor applications.
  • General Purpose: Ideal for dry, non-corrosive environments.
  • High Standards: Compliant with ASME B18.2.2 for reliable performance.

Applications for Plain Steel Slotted Hex Nuts

Plain steel castle nuts are designed for projects requiring secure, vibration-resistant fastening with bolts or studs in dry indoor settings, using a cotter pin to lock the nut in high-stress applications. Their versatility makes them suitable for:

  • Automotive and machinery components
  • Industrial equipment and assemblies
  • Construction and structural fittings
  • Indoor mechanical systems

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are plain steel slotted hex nuts?

Plain steel slotted hex nuts are hexagonal nuts made from low carbon steel without a coating, with slots cut into the top for cotter pin locking, preventing rotation in high-vibration indoor applications.

How do plain steel slotted hex nuts differ from zinc plated slotted hex nuts?

Plain steel slotted hex nuts lack a coating, making them suitable for dry indoor settings, while zinc plated slotted hex nuts have a zinc coating for moderate corrosion resistance in sheltered environments.

Are plain steel slotted hex nuts suitable for outdoor use?

No, plain steel nuts lack corrosion resistance and are best for dry indoor settings. For outdoor or corrosive environments, use zinc plated, 316 stainless steel, or silicon bronze slotted hex nuts.

How do I install plain steel slotted hex nuts?

Thread the nut onto the bolt, tighten to align a slot with the bolt’s hole, insert a cotter pin through the slot and hole, and bend the pin’s ends to secure.

How do I choose the right size plain steel slotted hex nut?

Select based on the bolt’s thread size, such as 1/4"-20, 3/8"-16, or 1/2"-13. Ensure the nut’s thread pitch matches the bolt and the slot aligns with the bolt’s hole for the cotter pin.