Experience with Aerotight nuts

[rmw]

I am wondering if anyone has had any particular experience with Aerotight nuts, specifically stainless nuts on stainless bolts in medium temperature service (400F/200C) where the bolts or nuts have to be repeatedly removed and reinstalled. I am looking for any issues with galling due to the nature of the locking device on the nut.

rmw

 

[berkshire]

Just running stainless on stainless sets you up for galling unless the threads are lubricated.
B.E.

 

[rmw]

A given, but thanks.

rmw

 

[unclesyd]

I haven't used this particular configuration for a locking nut. I checked today with two shops that are always looking for anything to gain advantage over loose fasteners. One rebuilds large pusher type centrifuges and the other builds animated displays and neither had been exposed to them.

On larger nuts I have used a very similar approach by cutting a radial slot to about the central axis of the nut. In looks essentially like the Aeronut except it doesn't have the axial cut. To lock the prepared nut you stake it down or use a screw to deform the cut section of the nut to where it will cause interference in the threads. I have not tried to reuse this configuration, only using it one time. It locks and so far I've had no problems.

 

[berkshire]

RMW,
Did you solve your problem with Aerotight nuts?
One alternative might be the CLEVELOCK nut this does not have the sharp edges of the Aerotight nut which seems to start galling as it comes off.

http://www.simmondsmarshall.com/page2.html

Even this, oval distressed thread nut will cause galling on removal on stainless,but it does not seem to be as bad as the Aerotight, if it is lubricated. Remember my experience is aircraft related.
B.E.

 

[rmw]

Thanks Berkshire,

My quest is not so much to find an alternative (and I have used the clevelock type nut in steel applications with good results) but to evaluate the Aerotight nut specifically. We use SS fasteners in our process and have to insure that they are securely locked in place to prevent downstream equipment damage.

I was hoping to get a clear picture from anyone who had used Aerotight as to whether the 'sharp edge' you mention does or does not enhance a SS fastener's propensity to gall in the best of conditions.

My eyeball, calibrated by experience (maybe I should say jaundiced), sees a problem waiting for a place to happen with the locking device being a place to start the sequence that produces the galling, but true world experience might state otherwise and if so, I was hoping to find that out.

rmw