Washers

Washers are essential components in many fastening applications, these metal discs with a central hole, though simple in appearance, play a critical role in enhancing the durability and effectiveness of threaded fasteners like screws or bolts. Their value lies in the numerous benefits they offer when used alongside these fasteners.

Types and Functions

1. Load Distribution The primary function of these components is to evenly distribute the load of a threaded fastener across the surface it secures. When a screw or bolt is driven into a material, especially softer ones like wood, there’s a risk of stress and damage around the entry point. These discs help mitigate this by spreading the load, reducing the likelihood of cracks or other damage. This is particularly important for delicate materials, ensuring that the fastener doesn’t compromise the integrity of the surface.
2. Surface Protection Plain variants serve to protect the surface being fastened. When tightened, a fastener can cause wear or damage due to the pressure exerted. These metal discs act as a buffer, preventing direct contact with the surface, preserving the material, and maintaining a cleaner, more professional finish. Additionally, they can provide insulation, such as electrical insulation, or accommodate holes that are larger than the fastener being used.
3. Vibration Resistance Spring types, also known as lock washers, offer axial flexibility and are designed to prevent the loosening of fasteners due to vibrations. These are particularly useful in environments where equipment or machinery is subject to continuous movement. Their spring-like design helps maintain tension in the fastener, ensuring a secure fit even under dynamic conditions.
4. Load Spreading Penny washers are flat discs with a particularly large outer diameter relative to the central hole. They are commonly used to spread the load over a larger surface area, making them ideal for thin sheet metal or other materials where there’s a risk of the fastener pulling through. The larger surface area provided by penny washers helps distribute the load more evenly, reducing stress on the material and enhancing the stability of the connection.

Additional Uses

1. Spacing Solutions These components can also serve as spacers in fastening applications. When the length of a fastener exceeds the depth of the material it secures, adding these discs can prevent the fastener from protruding through the other side. For instance, if a 4-inch screw is used on a 3-inch thick material, adding a few before tightening ensures that the fastener doesn’t extend beyond the material’s backside, offering a clean and secure finish.
2. Vibration Damping Certain types are specifically designed for vibration damping, made from materials such as rubber, plastic, or urethane. These absorb vibrations more effectively than metal ones, making them ideal for applications where one of the connected objects experiences frequent or intense vibrations. By isolating and absorbing the vibrations, they prevent damage to the other connected object, extending the life of both the fastener and the materials.
3. Liquid Sealing These components also play a crucial role in liquid sealing, particularly in plumbing and piping applications. Soft materials like rubber are often used to create a watertight seal around fasteners in water pipes and connections. They press tightly against the surfaces they secure, preventing the ingress of water and ensuring a leak-free connection.

Conclusion

Far from being mere accessories, these metal discs are critical to ensuring the longevity, stability, and effectiveness of fastened joints. Whether distributing load, preventing vibration-related loosening, serving as spacers, or sealing against liquids, they provide essential functions that protect both the fastener and the material. Our range includes various types and sizes, ensuring you have the right solution for any application, from heavy-duty industrial projects to delicate, precision work.