Jam Nuts

What is a Jam Nut?

A Jam nut is a low-profile nut designed to be tightened against the mating material. It should then have a finished or heavy hex nut tightened against the jam nut to keep it from loosening.

More information about Jam Nuts

3 Items

Image of item: Standard Thin Hex Jam Nuts Stainless Steel 18-8 — **Standard Thin Hex Jam Nuts Stainless Steel 18-8**

Image of item: Standard Thin Hex Jam Nuts Grade 2 Steel Zinc Plated — **Standard Thin Hex Jam Nuts Grade 2 Steel Zinc Plated**

Image of item: Standard Thin Nylon Insert Hex Jam Lock Nuts Stainless Steel 18-8 — **Standard Thin Nylon Insert Hex Jam Lock Nuts Stainless Steel 18-8**

3 Items

When to Use Jam Nuts

When fastening soft or brittle materials it is suggested to use a jam and hex nut assembly to keep the materials in place without damaging them from pressure. Jam nuts are also used in applications where a component is needed to move freely on the bolt of stud. In areas where space is limited, a jam nut can be used instead of a standard hex nut but is recommended to use thread locker if vibration is a concern. A double nut assembly can also be used if there is concern of stripping the threads of the bolt or stud.

Hex Jam Nuts - Key Features

There are several features that set jam nuts apart from other nuts, as seen below.

Low Profile

One of the key features of jam nuts is that they have a much lower profile than regular nuts or lock nuts. This makes them ideal for spaces where other nuts don't fit.

Tight Locking Abilities

Jam nuts work well with a secondary type of nut or lock washer to ensure that the fastening locks tightly.

Resistance to Vibration

When installed correctly, lock nuts work much better than typical hex nuts. This is largely because they are resistant to vibration, meaning they don't come loose as easily.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jam Nuts

What's the difference between a jam nut and a regular nut?

The only real difference is that a jam nut only has about half the height of a regular hex nut. It gets its name because this nut should jam up against a standard nut to lock both in place.

Which materials are thin or jam nuts made of?

Thin or jam nuts typically consist of either steel or stainless steel.

Can jam nuts be used alone?

Yes, jam nuts can be used alone. However, when not using them with a regular nut, you should incorporate a lock washer.

Are jam nuts and lock nuts the same thing?

They are similar, but not the same. Jam nuts are thin-profile hex nuts that work with a range of nuts. However, lock nuts work with a far broader range of nuts that feature a locking mechanism, locking them into place.