Lockbolt Fasteners: The Key to Structural Integrity

Lockbolt Fasteners: The Key to Structural Integrity

In the world of heavy-duty fastening, where strength, vibration resistance, and long-term reliability are critical, lockbolt fasteners stand out as a superior choice. Often used in demanding industries such as aerospace, construction, transportation, and mining, lockbolts offer a robust alternative to traditional bolts and rivets. But what exactly are lockbolt fasteners, and why are they such a game-changer?

What Are Lockbolt Fasteners?

A lockbolt is a type of high-strength, permanent mechanical fastener that combines the features of a bolt and a rivet. It consists of two main components:

• A pin (similar to a bolt or rivet body)

• A collar (which deforms and locks into place during installation)

  
  

When installed, the collar is swaged (compressed) onto the grooves of the pin using a specialized tool. This creates a vibration-resistant and tamper-proof joint that will not loosen over time, unlike conventional nuts and bolts.

Key Advantages of Lockbolt Fasteners

1. Superior Vibration Resistance

Lockbolts are immune to loosening from vibration and dynamic loads. That’s why they’re heavily used in railcars, bridges, and heavy trucks—places where traditional bolts would require constant monitoring and maintenance.

2. Permanent Installation

Once installed, lockbolts are virtually impossible to remove without destroying the fastener. This makes them ideal for applications where security and longevity are priorities.

3. Consistent Clamp Force

Unlike torque-based fasteners, lockbolts don’t rely on friction. The swaging process delivers a consistent, predictable clamp force that remains stable over time.

4. Quick and Clean Installation

Lockbolts are faster to install than traditional bolting systems and don’t require torque checks, washers, or lock nuts. Their smooth, finished appearance also reduces snag points and improves overall aesthetics.

Common Applications

• Heavy-duty trucks and trailers

• Cranes and mining equipment

• Aerospace structures

• Steel bridges and infrastructure

Lockbolt fasteners may not get the spotlight often, but their performance and reliability make them indispensable in industries where failure is not an option. If you're working on an application that demands structural integrity, vibration resistance, and maintenance-free reliability, it's worth taking a closer look at what lockbolts have to offer.