Speed nuts are fasteners made of spring steel with spike-like protrusions that grip the threads of bolts or screws, acting as a locking mechanism. They save time and money, eliminating the need for a wrench and lock washer. They are commonly used in low-end and high-volume manufacturing processes, including in the automotive industry.
A nut is a type of fastener made from stamped spring steel. In place of threads, such as those found inside a typical metal nut, the speed nut has two or more thin spike-like protrusions that grip the threads of the bolt or screw on which they are used. As the nut is tightened, the spring steel prongs are pulled towards the base of the screw and act as a type of locking mechanism. This allows the nut to be used successfully without a lock washer. There are many different designs of quick nuts, from flat, square pieces to acorn-type nuts and wing nut-like versions that can be easily snapped into place.
Many manufacturers have moved from the traditional nut and bolt assembly to the screw and nut quick fix system. By using this type of fastener, you can save time and money, adding to the total profit margin of the product. The simple speed nut can be held in place by hand while a screw is driven into the material. This eliminates the need for a wrench on each side of the fastener and speeds up the whole process as no time is wasted threading a nut onto a bolt and then tightening it in place.
The typical speed nut is a single use component and works well in the initial application. Made from spring steel, the nuts are made with a slight outward bend that grips the nut in place as the screw pulls it down. The pressure of the spring steel pushing up and against the screw gives the fastener a gripping function similar to a lock washer, holding it securely in place. On some exposed fasteners, the acorn nut is used to give a more aesthetic and finished look to the fastener. When using this type of nut, a wrench is also sometimes employed to grip the acorn nut as it is being tightened.
Common uses for this type of nut are fastening electronic panels in appliances and radios, building children’s toys, and pressed wood furniture. There are many other uses for fasteners, but the most common are found in low-end and high-volume manufacturing processes. Auto manufacturers use this type of high-speed fastener to apply badges, ornaments, and other types of trim to the exterior of vehicles, as well as many interior trim components of vehicles.
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