Lockbolts represent a revolutionary concept in fastening technology, offering superior performance and reliability compared to traditional nuts and bolts. Invented in the 1940s by Louis C. Huck, lockbolts were initially developed to address issues such as self-loosening and vibration-related failures common with conventional fasteners. Since then, lockbolts have evolved into a versatile solution used across various industries worldwide.
A lockbolt is a two-piece fastener comprising a hardened metal pin and a metal collar. Unlike conventional fasteners, lockbolts utilize a special installation tool to grip the pintail of the fastener and pull it, closing the gaps in the materials being joined. This process swages the collar into the grooves of the pin, creating a specific, measured clamp force to hold the assembled parts together. Lockbolts offer several significant advantages over traditional fastening methods. They provide quick installations, consistent high clamp force, maintenance-free joints resistant to vibration, and excellent shear, tensile, and fatigue resistance. Lockbolts are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 4.8mm to 36mm, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
Materials:
Lockbolts are typically made of carbon steel, with strength grades ranging from 5.8 to 10.9 for metric dimensions and grade 2 to 8 for imperial sizes. Additionally, stainless steel and aluminum lockbolts are available for applications requiring corrosion resistance or lightweight properties. Coatings such as zinc-flake systems are commonly applied to carbon steel lockbolts to enhance corrosion resistance.
Traditional Removal Methods:
Traditionally, the removal of lockbolts involves conventional methods such as drilling or grinding. However, these methods can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and may result in damage to surrounding structures or components.
How E-Drill is Better:
E-Drill offers a superior alternative for the removal of lockbolts, overcoming the limitations of traditional methods. With its advanced technology, E-Drill enables fast, precise, and non-contact removal of lockbolts, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding structures. E-Drill’s controlled and efficient process ensures minimal disruption and downtime during maintenance operations, enhancing safety and reliability in various industries.
