Flange nuts are a type of fastener that has a built-in washer, known as a flange, that provides a larger bearing surface. The washer helps to distribute the load evenly across the surface being fastened, preventing the nut from sinking into the material and providing extra resistance to loosening due to vibrations. In this blog, we'll discuss everything you need to know about flange nuts, including their types, materials, sizes, finishes, and applications.

Types of Flange Nuts

There are several types of flange nuts, each designed for specific applications. Here are the most common types:

  1. Serrated Flange Nuts: Serrated flange nuts have a serrated flange that provides a locking feature. The serrations bite into the material being fastened, preventing the nut from loosening due to vibrations.

  2. Non-Serrated Flange Nuts: Non-serrated flange nuts have a smooth flange and are commonly used in low-stress applications.

  3. Nylon Insert Flange Nuts: Nylon insert flange nuts, also known as nyloc flange nuts, have a nylon insert that provides a locking feature. The nylon insert creates friction between the nut and the bolt, preventing the nut from loosening due to vibrations.

  4. Top Lock Flange Nuts: Top lock flange nuts have a nylon insert at the top of the nut that provides a locking feature. The nylon insert creates friction between the nut and the bolt, preventing the nut from loosening due to vibrations.

Materials

Flange nuts are available in various materials, each with its own properties and benefits. Here are the most common materials:

  1. Steel: Steel flange nuts are the most common and cost-effective option. They are durable, strong, and resistant to corrosion. Steel flange nuts are available in different grades, each with varying strength and durability.

  2. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel flange nuts are resistant to corrosion and rust, making them ideal for outdoor and marine applications. They are also ideal for applications that require high strength and durability.

  3. Brass: Brass flange nuts are visually appealing and have good corrosion resistance. They are commonly used in decorative applications, such as furniture and lighting.

  4. Aluminum: Aluminum flange nuts are lightweight and have good corrosion resistance. They are commonly used in applications where weight is a concern, such as aerospace and automotive.

Sizes

Flange nuts are available in various sizes, each designed to fit a specific bolt or screw diameter. The size of the flange nut is determined by the thread size and pitch. Common sizes range from M4 to M24, with imperial sizes ranging from 1/4" to 1". It's important to use the correct size of flange nut for the bolt or screw being used to ensure proper tightening and holding strength.

Finishes

Flange nuts are available in various finishes, each designed for specific applications. Here are the most common finishes:

  1. Plain Finish: Plain finish flange nuts have no coating or plating. They are the most cost-effective option and are suitable for most applications.

  2. Zinc Plated: Zinc plated flange nuts have a thin layer of zinc coating that provides corrosion resistance. They are commonly used in indoor and outdoor applications.

  3. Black Oxide: Black oxide flange nuts have a black finish that provides corrosion resistance and a sleek look. They are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications.

  4. Chrome Plated: Chrome plated flange nuts have a shiny chrome finish that provides excellent corrosion resistance and a sleek look. They are commonly used in decorative applications, such as furniture and lighting.

Flange nuts are used in various applications across various industries, including:

  1. Automotive: Flange nuts are commonly used in automotive applications to fasten various components, such as engines, transmissions, and suspension systems. The flange provides extra resistance to loosening due to vibrations, making it ideal for automotive applications.

  2. Construction: Flange nuts are used in construction to fasten structural elements such as beams, columns, and braces. The flange provides a larger bearing surface, distributing the load evenly across the surface being fastened, preventing the nut from sinking into the material.

  3. Aerospace: Flange nuts are used in aerospace applications to fasten various components, such as engines, wings, and landing gear. The lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties of aluminum and titanium flange nuts make them ideal for aerospace applications.

  4. Electrical and Electronic: Flange nuts are used in electrical and electronic applications to fasten components and to provide insulation. The nylon insert in nylon insert flange nuts creates friction between the nut and the bolt, preventing the nut from loosening due to vibrations.

  5. Marine: Flange nuts are used in marine applications to fasten various components, such as rigging and hardware. Stainless steel flange nuts provide excellent corrosion resistance in marine environments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, flange nuts are a versatile type of fastener that provides extra resistance to loosening due to vibrations, making them ideal for applications where stability and reliability are essential. Understanding the different types, materials, sizes, finishes, and applications of flange nuts is important in selecting the right flange nut for a specific application. By selecting the right flange nut, you can ensure proper tightening and holding strength, which is essential for the safety and reliability of the application.

Buy or RFQ for Flange Nut Click Here