What are wing nuts?
A wing nut description is in the name itself. Also known as a butterfly nut or butterfly wing nut, two wings – oppose each other on opposite sides of the nut’s threaded hole. Thanks to these tabs, a wing nut is even easier to use than a hexagonal nut, giving you a sure grip for tightening and loosening without the need for tools. Learn more in this guide, which covers:
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Wing Nuts
Comparison of Plastic Wing Nuts to Traditional Metal Nuts
Different Types of Plastic Wing Nuts for a Variety of Industries
Choosing the Right Plastic Wing Nut for Your Application
Installation and Removal of Plastic Wing Nuts
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Wing Nuts
The wing-nut purpose is first and foremost to fasten two or more objects together. But what is the advantage of using wing nuts? Convenience. For starters, you don’t need a tool to remove wing nuts. Sometimes called a wing screw, their protruding tabs make installation and removal fast and easy. They’re particularly convenient when frequent adjustments or disassembly is required. And not just convenient – this saves time and effort in field or on-site installations.
There are few drawbacks to wing fasteners: they have less torque, as they’re usually applied by hand, which reduces clamping force. Wing nuts can also loosen in vibrating applications.
Large-eared wing nuts are also vulnerable to tampering. Depending on the application, security measures, such as safety wire, might be necessary. Another disadvantage is their unsuitability for heavy-load applications, which again comes down to hand tightening. For these situations, wing nut vs. hex nut is no contest. Choose hex or flange nuts, which are designed for greater loads. You can also get metal or plastic wing nuts.
Comparison of plastic wing nuts to traditional metal nuts
All nuts are types of fasteners with threaded holes to secure bolts, and sometimes screws. Traditional nuts are designed in a hexagonal shape, with six sides to make it easier to install and remove with a wrench. Like traditional nuts, wing nuts hold two or more materials together using a bolt. Applying the wing nut is just a matter of screwing it on, like any other nut.
You can learn more about nuts in our guide What are the different types of nuts and bolts?
How does a traditional metal nut compare with a plastic wing nut?
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Traditional Metal Nuts |
Plastic Wing Nut |
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Material Strength & Durability |
Generally strong & more durable; can withstand higher loads & resist deformation |
Lower load-bearing capacity |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Depends on alloy – stainless steel offers excellent resistant to oxidation |
Plastics are generally corrosion resistant, but some degrade or weaken when exposed to chemicals or harsh environments |
|
Installation & Removal |
Typically require tools: wrenches, sockets, or pliers – involves more effort |
Faster & easier |
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Weight & Density |
Denser & heavier – good when stronger fastening or stability required |
Lighter in weight – good when light weight is needed, or to prevent damage to surfaces |
|
Cost |
Generally more expensive |
More affordable |
Both plastic and metal butterfly nuts are ideal for low-torque applications. As already mentioned, if high vibration is present, they can loosen. That said, plastic – particularly nylon wing nuts and bolts – do a good job of standing up to vibration. In fact, plastic butterfly nuts have been proven to provide a secure joint when installed correctly, but you should always test any nut before making a decision.
If you’re using metal wing nuts, you can use a wing nut wrench or wing nut spanner to gain more torque.
An advantage to metal is that decorative wing nuts are available, typically in cast iron to give an antique or vintage feel. Brass wing nuts are also a good option when appearance matters. This is certainly an option to consider if the nut will be visible, and if aesthetics matter. If not, it’s hard to justify the extra cost.
Different Types of Plastic Wing Nuts for a Variety of Industries
What are wing nuts used for? There is no typical wing nut application. These handy fasteners are used across different industries when low-torque is acceptable. The most widely used plastic wing-nut material is nylon and is used in these industries:
● Electronics
● Electrical enclosures
● Light Machinery
● Small Domestic Appliances
● Furniture
● Medical & Lab Equipment
● Point-of-Purchase Displays
Choosing the Right Plastic Wing Nut for Your Application
Wing-nut uses vary. The features of these wing styles give you a clue for how to use wing nuts.
Style one: Nylon wing nuts
● Small wing nuts
● Large-eared wing nuts available
Large tabs for an easy grip make it perfect for applications where frequent adjustments will be necessary.
Style two: Nylon wing nuts
● Large wing-nut tabs for easy grip
● Easily tightened and loosened without the need for tools
Ideal for fast assembly and disassembly of pop-up stands.
How to measure wing-nut size
Wing-nut size is easy to measure. Common metric sizes include an M4, M5 and M6 wing nut. Also easily available is an M7 wing nut, M8 wing nut, M10, and M12 wing nut. You can even get an M12 wing nut. Wing-nut dimensions also come in imperial sizes, such as a 3/16 wing nut.
You can learn about measuring fasteners in our guide What’s the difference between metric and standard fasteners?
Installation and Removal of Plastic Wing Nuts
There are different types of wing nuts, but they’re generally installed and removed the same way – and it’s typically a straightforward process. Still, handle them with care, as excessive force or overtightening can lead to damage or stripping of the threads. It’s also a good idea to consult with the manufacturer about any additional considerations or recommendations during installation and removal.
How to install wing nuts
1. Ensure the threads of the mating component (bolt, stud, or threaded rod) are clean and free from debris.
2. Place the plastic wing nut onto the mating component with the wings facing outward.
3. Hand-tighten the wing nut by rotating it in a clockwise direction. Use the wings on the nut to provide leverage for easier tightening.
4. Continue tightening the wing nut until it reaches the desired level of tightness. Take care not to overtighten, as plastic wing nuts may be more susceptible to damage compared to they’re metal counterparts.
5. Once tightened, check that the wing nut is secure and adequately holding the components together.
How to remove a wing nut
1. If the plastic wing nut has been overtightened or is stuck, or you’re using a locking wing nut, you might need hand tools such as pliers, a wrench, or an adjustable spanner for added grip and leverage.
2. Position the tool securely on the wings or the flat sides of the wing nut, ensuring a firm grip without applying excessive force.
3. Rotate the plastic wing nut counterclockwise to loosen it from the mating component.
4. Once loosened, continue rotating the wing nut by hand until it can be fully removed.
5. If the wing nut is still difficult to remove, applying some lubricant or penetrating oil to the threads can help ease the process. Allow the lubricant to penetrate for a few minutes before attempting to remove the nut again.
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. You can also request free samples to make sure you’ve chosen exactly what you need. If you’re not quite sure which butterfly wing nut will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you.
You should also check out our Ultimate Guide to Fasteners.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.