Threadlockers fill the gaps between mating threads and cure into a solid plastic that blocks loosening and seals out moisture. Strengths are color-coded by common convention: purple for low strength on small screws, blue for medium strength removable with hand tools, red for high strength that usually needs heat around 250 C to break, and green for thin wicking grades applied after assembly. They come as liquids, sticks and pre-applied coatings.
Threadlocker on all the motor mount bolts, blue only, maintenance has to get these out.
Also heard as
- thread locker
- thread-locking compound
Related terms
Anaerobic adhesive
A one-part liquid that stays fluid in air but cures when sealed between metal surfaces away from oxygen.
Blue
Shop shorthand for medium-strength threadlocker, the removable kind; red means the permanent kind.
Wicking
Describing very thin adhesives that run into already assembled joints by capillary action.
Activator
A liquid applied to one surface to speed or start the cure of an adhesive placed on the other.