In 2010, German manufacturer HEICO Befestigungstechnik GmbH founded the new business unit HEICO-LOCK®.
HEICO-LOCK® stands for high-quality anti-vibration security for the most demanding bolted joint applications – even under extreme vibration or dynamic loads – providing maximum security.
HEICO explains that HEICO-LOCK is a wedge lock system consisting of two special shaped washers. When the bolt or nut is tightened the external radial teeth of the HEICO-LOCK Wedge Lock Washers embed themselves in an interlocking fashion with the respective mating surface. If the bolt or nut tries to rotate loose, movement is only possible between the internal, wedge shaped washer surfaces. Due to this movement, an expansion in thickness occurs. This expansion leads to an increase of the clamping force within the bolted connection and therefore to a self-locking behaviour.
Besides the basic HEICO-LOCK Wedge Lock Washers, HEICO launched two further innovative products based on the proven HEICO-LOCK principle:
HEICO-LOCK® Ring Lock Washers
The ring locking system guarantees that the two wedge lock washers are always secured in the correct position with the wedge-shaped cams on the inside and the radial teeth on the outside. Whereas the wedge lock washers secure the bolted connections reliably, the polyamide ring on the outside holds the two individual washers together in the correct position permanently. HEICO says that this means the bolt locking system is always easy, safe and quick to install, even for non-special users and repeated use.
HEICO-LOCK Ring Lock Washers are available from M4 – M24 in both steel and stainless steel and with a normal or an enlarged outside diameter.
HEICO-LOCK® Wedge Lock Nut,
The nut and the HEICO-LOCK Wedge Lock Washers are combined in a captive and rotary way, ensuring that the HEICO-LOCK Wedge Lock Washers and the nut are fixed permanently in the correct position. HEICO explains that due to the one-piece design of the HEICO-LOCK Wedge Lock Nut it eliminates the risk of misuse and breakdowns in production lines – caused by faulty bolted connections. It also ensures a safe and fast assembly, as well as easy handling, especially in hard to reach areas, and the captive design of the HEICO-LOCK Wedge Lock Nut guarantees a safe and fast reuse in most applications. The nuts are available in carbon steel from M6 – M22 in both coarse and fine thread.
“Customised HEICO-LOCK products are available with non-standard dimensions or special materials such as Inconel or SMO254 and are available upon request. Our global customer service and in-house laboratories offer a high level of technical advice, as well as individual testing facilities. For further information please visit our website or contact us directly.”
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
