Is it becoming impossible to tighten/loosen the nuts and bolts?
Due to high pressure and friction between the nut and bolt, the threads cause abrasion in the surface.
The abrasiveness is caused because of the cutting threads method. The cutting method fabricates rough surfaces which have higher chances of galling.
There is no solution for galling, also called cold welding. To remove the bolt, either cutting of the bolt or the nut is done.
But you can prevent galling by following the mentioned methods.
Which Material to Choose?
Stainless steel is highly prone to galling due to its high ductility. The thick resistive layer on the surface reduces the friction, but constant withering or tightening of the fastener scrapes off the resistive layer, and thus the direct metal contact increases galling.
Quality Check
Damaged threads are more susceptible to cold welding. A nut would go smoothly on a perfectly threaded fastener. You should be able to tighten a high-quality bolt by hand.
Any kind of debris increases the possibility of a damaged fastener or galling. Always look for quality certifications when buying fasteners.
Installation Speed
Using power tools to install fasteners produces a high amount of heat due to friction, which results in galling.
Nyloc nuts are more prone to galling and require careful installation. Slow installation speed significantly enhances the fastener’s life.
Forcing the Components Together
Bolts should be installed where they fit the system and not force different components together. Installation of nuts and bolts needs to be smooth. It should be possible to tighten the nut with your hand until the final tightening.
Forcing components together will exert pressure on the fasteners and result in galling.
Lubrication
Using a lubricant to smoothen the uneven surfaces and ease the installation reduces the chances of galling.
Lubricants reduce the friction between nuts and bolts and save the wear and tear of fasteners. Besides, wax-coated fasteners are a great way to avoid galling.
Rolling or Cutting?
As said, the thread-cutting method creates an uneven thread surface, which increases friction. Before installing the fastener, ask the fastener manufacturing unit about the fastener specifications.
Rolled threads have a smoother surface which prevents premature failures and reduces the production cost.
If you have to constantly tighten and loosen the fasteners, then opt for rolled thread fasteners. It will prolong the wear and tear.
You can also opt for electropolishing to smoothen the sharp thread edges.
Why Choose Bhavya Industries?
Now you know how to prevent galling and what as a consumer you can do. Look for any signs of damaged or uneven threads during the fastener purchase.
Bhavya Industries is one of the leading fastener manufacturing units in Ludhiana for the past 25 years. We have served many clients in India and the U.S., and they have been with us ever since. We provide high-grade fasteners, which undergo national and international quality checks. We believe in improving the minuscule mistakes and providing satisfactory products to various industries.
