Fastener Vibration

Vibration is repeated oscillating motion that can affect a bolted or screwed joint by causing small movements between the clamped parts. Over time, this motion can reduce clamping force and lead to self-loosening, especially if the joint was not preloaded enough to keep the parts firmly seated. Vibration can come from rotating machinery, engines, vehicles, pumps, compressors, and many other sources where loads and acceleration change continuously.

Vibration matters in fastening because it can drive gradual loss of preload through a combination of embedding (surface settling), micro-slip at the joint interface, and thread movement. To improve vibration resistance, designers often focus on achieving correct bolt preload and using proven locking methods when needed, such as prevailing-torque locknuts, threadlocker, lock washers where appropriate, or mechanical locking devices. Selecting the right fastener grade, using proper tightening procedures, and designing joints to minimize slip are usually more effective than relying on a single “anti-vibration” component alone.