KEP “K” Nuts
18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel

Stainless steel Kep nuts are a practical solution when you need secure fastening that holds under vibration. These fasteners, also called Keps nuts or K-lock nuts, combine a hex nut with a free-spinning lock washer.

That built-in washer helps prevent loosening. It also speeds up installation since you do not need a separate washer.

Manufactured from 18-8, or 304 stainless steel, these locking nuts offer strong corrosion resistance. They perform well in environments exposed to moisture, humidity, and mild chemicals.

You will find stainless steel Kep nuts used in:

  • Machinery and equipment assembly

  • Automotive components

  • Electrical enclosures

  • Construction hardware

They are a reliable choice when you need consistent fastening and quick installation.

AdobeStock 857604174 scaled - KEP "K" Nuts<br />18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel

Our Range of Stainless Steel Kep Nuts Includes

Marsh Fasteners offers a wide range of stainless steel kep nuts, including the following:

External Tooth Kep Nuts

External tooth Kep nuts feature a lock washer with teeth that extend outward. These teeth bite into the surface during tightening.

That added grip improves resistance to vibration.

Common Applications
  • Machinery assembly

  • Sheet metal fastening

  • Automotive parts

  • Electrical mounting systems

Available Options
  • Multiple thread sizes

  • 18-8 / 304 stainless steel construction

  • External star washer locking design

Kep Nuts

Internal Tooth Kep Nuts

Internal tooth Kep nuts have a washer with inward-facing teeth. This design provides a cleaner external profile while still delivering locking performance.

These are useful where space is limited.

lock nuts vs standard nuts
Common Applications
  • Electrical enclosures

  • Electronic equipment

  • Precision machinery

  • Tight clearance assemblies

Options
  • Various thread sizes

  • Stainless steel construction

  • Internal tooth locking washer

Standard Stainless Steel Kep Nuts

Standard stainless steel Kep nuts combine a hex nut with a captive washer for general-purpose use.

They are widely used across industries due to their ease of installation.

Common Applications
  • Equipment assembly

  • Construction hardware

  • Mechanical installations

  • Industrial machinery

Available Options
  • Standard thread sizes

  • Corrosion-resistant stainless steel

  • Integrated locking washer

AdobeStock 578405804 scaled - KEP "K" Nuts<br />18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel

Technical Specifications

Product Type Sizes (Leg Length × Thickness × Length) Materials Typical Load / Strength Standards / Notes
External Tooth Kep Nuts Various UNC / UNF thread sizes 18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel Strong locking resistance against vibration External tooth washer improves grip
Internal Tooth Kep Nuts Multiple thread sizes 18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel Moderate locking strength Lower external profile
Standard Kep Nuts Common machine screw thread sizes 18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel Secure fastening with integrated washer Eliminates need for separate lock washer
Captive Washer Design Washer rotates freely before installation Stainless steel Simplifies assembly and installation Combines nut and washer in one component

Benefits of Stainless Steel Kep Nuts

Understanding the benefits of Kep nuts helps you choose the right fastener for your project. The benefits include:

Integrated washer design

  • No need for a separate lock washer

  • Reduces installation steps

  • Improves assembly speed

Vibration resistance

  • Helps prevent loosening under movement

  • Ideal for machinery and vehicles

  • Supports long-term reliability

Corrosion resistance

  • 18-8 / 304 stainless steel resists rust

  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use

  • Performs well in humid environments

Consistent performance

  • Reliable clamping force

  • Reduced maintenance needs

  • Strong fastening in demanding applications

These vibration resistant nuts are commonly used where movement or mechanical stress is present.

Choosing the Right Kep Nut for Your Project

Selecting the right fastener matters. Poor selection can lead to loosening or failure.

Match the thread size

Choose a Kep nut that fits your bolt or screw exactly. Incorrect sizing leads to poor performance.

Select the correct washer style
  • External tooth for stronger grip

  • Internal tooth for a cleaner profile

Your application will determine the best option.

Consider material requirements

18-8 stainless steel works for most environments. It provides solid corrosion resistance without added cost.

Evaluate the environment

Ask yourself:

  • Will there be moisture exposure?

  • Is vibration a factor?

  • Are chemicals present?

These factors affect fastener performance.

Factor in installation needs

Kep nuts simplify assembly because the washer is already attached. This reduces labor time and improves efficiency.

Why Choose Marsh Fasteners?

Marsh Fasteners supplies high-quality stainless fasteners for a wide range of industries.

What you can expect

  • Large inventory of stainless steel nuts and hardware

  • Reliable supply for contractors and manufacturers

  • Competitive pricing for small and bulk orders

  • Consistent product quality

  • Knowledgeable support team

You get access to a trusted stainless fastener supplier with experience in marine, construction, and industrial applications.

What Our Customers Say

These guys always have what I’m looking for in stock. I got tired of going to Home Depot to in search of the fasteners I needed for a project only to find out that either they didn’t stock that size, they were out of them or they only had packages of one or two of that particular fastener. Not to mention spend 15 minutes sorting through various packages put back in the wrong place. I’m always building or repairing things and some of the fasteners I need are a weird size. Marsh Fasteners always has them in stock, their staff is polite, and their prices are fair.

Brian Artigas

I love marsh fasteners!! Kathy and her grandson are the nicest people you will ever meet!! Kathy and Chris were my old bosses. Kathy is the best.

Kyle Cirasuolo

This is a great company to buy stainless steel fasteners from. Fast service, quality products, and competitive pricing. Don’t waste your time at the Big Orange or Big Blue box stores.

James Tinsley, Jr

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These products help create complete fastening systems that perform reliably.

Contact Us

Need help selecting the right stainless steel Kep nuts?

The team at Marsh Fasteners can help you choose the correct size, material, and configuration for your application.

Contact us for:

  • Product recommendations
  • Bulk pricing
  • Availability and lead times

Reach out today for expert support and fastener guidance.

10 Essential Fasteners Every DIY Enthusiast Should Have in Their Toolkit - KEP "K" Nuts<br />18-8 / 304 Stainless Steel

FAQ’s

Do Kep nuts require a separate washer?2026-05-12T06:51:45-04:00

No. The washer is permanently attached to the nut.

What sizes are available for Kep nuts?2026-05-12T06:51:26-04:00

They are available in a wide range of standard thread sizes.

Can stainless steel Kep nuts be used outdoors?2026-05-12T06:50:26-04:00

Yes. 18-8 stainless steel performs well in outdoor environments.

Are Kep nuts resistant to vibration?2026-05-12T06:50:07-04:00

Yes. The integrated washer helps resist loosening caused by vibration.

What does 18-8 stainless steel mean?2026-05-12T06:49:39-04:00

It refers to the composition of the stainless steel. It typically contains 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel, which improves corrosion resistance.

Are Kep nuts reusable?2026-05-12T06:49:13-04:00

They can be reused in some cases. However, repeated use may reduce locking effectiveness.

What is the difference between a Kep nut and a standard hex nut?2026-05-12T06:48:46-04:00

Kep nut includes a built-in washer. A standard hex nut requires a separate washer for locking.

What is a Kep nut?2026-05-12T06:47:07-04:00

Kep nut is a hex nut with an attached lock washer. The washer helps prevent loosening caused by vibration.

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