Analysis of the Service Life of Self-Locking Nuts

The service life of self-locking nuts is closely related to factors such as material, processing technology, and operating environment. In the aviation field, the service life of self-locking nuts typically needs to be determined through rigorous testing and evaluation. Generally speaking, the service life of self-locking nuts can be divided into the following stages:

1 Initial Stage

In the initial use stage of self-locking nuts, due to the large frictional force generated by plastic deformation, the stability of the threaded connection is high. At this stage, the self-locking nut can effectively resist vibration and load changes, ensuring the safety of the threaded connection.

2 Stable Stage

As the duration of use extends, the self-locking nut enters a stable stage. At this stage, the frictional force between the thread pairs maintains a relatively stable level, and the self-locking nut can still provide good anti-loosening effects.

3 Decline Stage

Under long-term dynamic loads and vibrations, the self-locking nut gradually enters the decline stage. At this point, the friction coefficient between the thread pairs begins to decrease, the self-locking torque gradually diminishes, and the stability of the threaded connection is affected.

2 Analysis of Anti-Loosening Methods and Tightening Structures for Self-Locking Nuts

To improve the anti-loosening performance of self-locking nuts, the following are common anti-loosening methods and tightening structures:

Anti-Loosening Methods

Coating Anti-Loosening

Applying a special anti-loosening coating, such as Loctite threadlocker, to the surface of the thread pairs can increase the friction between the threads and enhance anti-loosening performance.

Material Optimization

Selecting high-strength, wear-resistant materials to manufacture self-locking nuts can improve their fatigue resistance and anti-loosening capabilities.

Structural Improvement

By improving the structure of the self-locking nut, such as adding locking slots, serrations, etc., the thread pairs can maintain a certain level of friction when subjected to vibration.

Tightening Structures

Shear Tightening

Setting a shear plane at the root of the threads in the self-locking nut, when the threads are subjected to external forces, the shear plane will produce plastic deformation, thereby locking the threads.

Compression Tightening

Using elastic elements such as compression springs or rubber rings to keep the thread pairs in tight contact under the action of pre-tension, achieving an anti-loosening effect.

Wedge Tightening

Utilizing the wedge principle, a wedge-shaped locking element is set between the thread pairs. When the threads are subjected to vibration, the wedge element will automatically lock, preventing loosening.

In conclusion, the application of self-locking nuts in the aviation field is of great importance. Through the analysis of the service life, anti-loosening methods, and tightening structures of self-locking nuts, a strong guarantee can be provided for the safety of threaded connections in aviation engines. In practical applications, the appropriate self-locking nuts and anti-loosening measures should be selected based on specific circumstances to ensure the reliability and safety of threaded connections. At the same time, continuously researching and developing new anti-loosening technologies and improving the performance of self-locking nuts is of great significance for promoting the development of the aviation field.