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renjith_p
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Does a left hand thread offer any advantages over a right hand thread?
obafgkmrns said:Some cars (MGs, e.g.) used to have left-hand lug nuts on the left side, but that's not so common anymore.
LJW said:They prevent unscrewing in applications where the screw fixes a rotating object, and also help to differentiate gas from hydraulic/liquid/etc lines in cars, burners, etc.
Left hand thread and right hand thread refer to the direction in which the threads on a screw or bolt are cut. Left hand threads are cut in a counterclockwise direction, while right hand threads are cut in a clockwise direction. This means that left hand threads tighten in a counterclockwise direction, while right hand threads tighten in a clockwise direction.
The choice between left hand thread and right hand thread depends on the application. Left hand threads are commonly used in situations where the rotation of an object could cause a right hand threaded fastener to loosen, such as in bicycle pedals or rotating machinery. Right hand threads are more commonly used in most applications, including general household use and automotive applications.
It is generally not recommended to use left hand threaded fasteners with right hand threaded fasteners. This is because the direction of rotation needed to tighten or loosen the fasteners is opposite, and using them together can cause confusion and potential damage to the fasteners or the object they are securing.
Left hand threads are typically identified by a marking on the fastener, such as "LH" or a left-facing arrow. Right hand threads are usually not marked, but can be identified by the direction in which they tighten. Additionally, left hand threaded fasteners will have a different thread pitch than right hand threaded fasteners.
In most cases, left hand threaded fasteners can be more difficult to find and purchase compared to right hand threaded fasteners. This is because they are not as commonly used and therefore may not be stocked at all hardware or home improvement stores. However, they can be easily found and purchased online or at specialized stores that cater to specific industries, such as automotive or machinery repair.