Intro to Millwright Practice Exam

What is a six-sided, self-locking fastener that utilizes stainless steel wire to prevent loosening?

1. Cap Nut

2. Wire Nut

3. Castle Nut

4. Flange Nut

The correct answer is: Wire Nut

The correct answer identifies a six-sided, self-locking fastener that utilizes stainless steel wire, which is a feature that describes a wire nut. Wire nuts are commonly used in electrical work to connect multiple wire ends securely. They have a spiral design that allows them to securely grip the insulated wires, and while they are not traditionally described with six sides, the reference to a self-locking mechanism and the use of wire aligns with the purpose of a wire nut in preventing loosening through its design. In contrast, a cap nut typically has a dome shape that covers the end of a bolt, but it does not have a locking mechanism like stainless steel wire to prevent loosening. A castle nut is designed with slots on the top to allow a cotter pin to be inserted, which secures it in position, but it does not utilize wire for locking. A flange nut incorporates a built-in washer to distribute load but does not employ a self-locking feature involving stainless steel wire. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the correct answer relates to the unique locking capabilities attributed to wire nuts in various applications.