What Is Threadlocker and When Should You Use It?

Threadlocker is a liquid adhesive that cures in the absence of air and in the presence of metal, creating a secure bond that prevents fasteners from loosening due to vibration, thermal cycling, or shock. Used across industries including automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, and manufacturing, threadlockers are critical for safety and performance. This guide explains the different grades of threadlocker, how to apply them correctly, and how OneSource’s offerings compare to industry giants like Loctite and Permatex. 

What Is Threadlocker? 

Threadlocker is an anaerobic adhesive designed to secure and seal threaded fasteners. When applied to the threads of a bolt or screw and assembled into a metal part, the threadlocker cures in the absence of oxygen, locking the threads and preventing loosening. 

Threadlockers are ideal for components exposed to vibration, temperature variation, or mechanical shock—such as engines, pumps, gearboxes, and industrial machinery. 

Grades of Threadlocker: Red, Blue, Green 

Aerosols aren’t a type of cleaner—they’re a spray format. Many household cleaners come in aerosol cans to help you reach tight spots or apply an even layer. 

Red Threadlocker (High Strength): Used in permanent applications where disassembly is not expected. Ideal for heavy machinery, suspension bolts, and motor mounts. 

Blue Threadlocker (Medium Strength): Removable with hand tools. Commonly used for machine guards, brackets, and small equipment fasteners. 

Green Threadlocker (Low Strength/Wicking Grade): Applied post-assembly to secure already-tightened bolts. Excellent for electronics or tight-clearance assemblies.


How to Apply Threadlocker Properly 

  1. Clean all threads using a solvent or degreaser to remove oil, dirt, or old adhesive.
  2. Apply 1-2 drops to the bolt threads.
  3. Assemble and torque as needed.
  4. Allow 10-20 minutes for handling strength, 24 hours for full cure (or use an activator to speed up). 

Note: Avoid using threadlocker on plastic parts or with fasteners larger than M36 unless a gel or stick formulation is specified. 

Industrial Use Cases for Threadlocker

- Automotive: Suspension components, engine blocks, exhaust manifold bolts.  
- Manufacturing: Assembly lines, conveyor system hardware, press fasteners.  
- HVAC: Fan housings, vibration-prone ducts, blower mounts.  
- Aerospace: Panels, internal bracketry, access doors.

Comparison: OneSource vs. Loctite vs. Permatex  

OneSource Supply Co. offers a curated selection of industrial-grade THREADLOCKERS & RETAINERS  that match or exceed the quality of major brands like Loctite and Permatex. Unlike off-the-shelf consumer-grade products, OneSource formulations are designed for volume usage, bulk application, and include fast cure options for high-throughput operations. 

Loctite: Known for its precise formulations and color-coded strengths, Loctite remains the gold standard in many automotive and aerospace environments.
Permatex: Offers a wide range of consumer-accessible threadlockers with solid performance, often used in general maintenance and smaller shops. 
OneSource: Ideal for facility-wide procurement. Offers volume-friendly pricing, customizable kits, and compatibility with professional MRO environments.  

Buying Tips for Threadlocker   

  • Always match the threadlocker to the torque requirement and operating environment.
  • Stock multiple grades for flexibility across departments.
  • Look for packaging suited to your workflow: bottles, pens, or pre-applied patches.
  • Choose threadlocker from suppliers who can bundle it with fasteners or offer restocking programs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid   

  • Not cleaning threads before application (reduces bonding strength).
  • Using the wrong grade—e.g., red where removability is required.
  • Over-applying product, causing squeeze-out or thread overflow.
  • Using expired or improperly stored product (always check date codes). 

Real-World Case Study   

An industrial equipment manufacturer experienced frequent loosening of motor mounting bolts on an automated conveyor system. After switching to a high-strength threadlocker from OneSource, bolt failures dropped by 95%, and maintenance intervals extended from weekly to quarterly, saving over 80 labor hours annually. 

Conclusion 

Threadlocker is a low-cost, high-impact solution that plays a critical role in industrial safety and reliability. Whether you're assembling heavy machinery, maintaining vehicle fleets, or repairing HVAC systems, having the right grade of threadlocker can prevent costly downtime and failures. 

OneSource Supply Co. offers a full line of THREADLOCKERS & RETAINERS or professional use. Backed by MRO expertise and bulk supply options, OneSource delivers quality that stands up to Loctite and Permatex—without the premium markup. 

Visit https://onesourcesupplyco.com to request your custom maintenance supply plan or explore our industrial adhesives today.