Fastener Guide / Technical Reference

Lock Washers and Locking Methods

A split lock washer is the most common locking device and one of the least effective against vibration. Maintaining preload is what keeps a joint tight.

Last reviewed 2026-09-10 · Governing standard: ASME B18.21.1-2009 (R2016) (washers); product standards · reference FG-5CC20C · Report an error on this sheet

Locking methods compared

MethodHow it worksNotes
Split lock washerSpring tensionLittle resistance to transverse vibration
Nylon-insert nutPrevailing torqueAbout 250 F (121 C) max
All-metal locknutDistorted threadHigh temperature, reuse limited
Serrated flangeBites the surfaceNeeds a hard mating surface
ThreadlockerAnaerobic adhesiveChanges the torque K factor
Wedge-lock washer pairCam actionStrong vibration resistance

Governing standards: ASME B18.21.1-2009 (R2016) (washers); product standards. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always take precedence over this sheet.

These tables carry the same figures as the printed sheet below.

The printed sheet

Lock Washers and Locking Methods

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Text version of this sheet

Lock washers and locking methods

What it is

FIELD IDENTIFICATION

A split lock washer is the most common locking device and one of the least effective against vibration.

Maintaining preload is what keeps a joint tight.

SPLIT LOCK (TOP)

SIDE

Split lock washer

Locking methods compared

Method

How it works

Notes

Split lock washer

Spring tension

Little resistance to transverse vibration

Nylon-insert nut

Prevailing torque

About 250 F (121 C) max

All-metal locknut

Distorted thread

High temperature, reuse limited

Serrated flange

Bites the surface

Needs a hard mating surface

Threadlocker

Anaerobic adhesive

Changes the torque K factor

Wedge-lock washer pair

Cam action

Strong vibration resistance

Governing standards: ASME B18.21.1-2009 (R2016) (washers); product standards. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing

standard always take precedence over this sheet.

torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability

arising from reliance on this reference.

Fastener Guide reference FG-5CC20C · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/technical-reference/lock-washers-and-locking-methods · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.

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