How to Choose Between Washer Types, Materials, and More

Washers are components found in countless fastened assemblies, serving various roles like distributing loads, reducing wear to surfaces, and minimizing effects of vibration. With various types of washers on the market, each with its own set of subtypes and variations, it becomes very important to know how to find the right option for a given application to ensure reliability and durability of the final structure. This blog will provide an overview of common forms of washers, their respective designs, and material choices to aid customers with selection tips.

For a majority of low-stakes situations where there is simply a need to distribute loads and protect the surfaces of assembly items, plain washers are among the most popular choices. Coming in the form of a cylindrical disk with a hole in the center, these washers are typically used in conjunction with bolts, head screws, nuts, and other similar forms of threaded fasteners as they secure parts together. Lock washers are another variation that is prized in applications where vibration forces are present, as they are specifically designed with teeth or nylon inserts that prevent fasteners from loosening due to movement or pressure. Beyond these common types, there are also specialized options like spring washers that provide shock absorption and maintain tension, as well as wave washers for handling axial loads and saving space.

The material of the chosen fastening element also plays a significant role in performance and durability across different environments. Common materials for washers include metals, rubber, nylon, and plastic, where each has distinct characteristics that are beneficial for varying needs. For example, metal washers made from stainless steel, brass, or aluminum are often used in high-strength applications due to their ability to withstand pressure and temperature extremes. Meanwhile, rubber and nylon variants are known for their flexibility and ability to create a tight seal between parts, which is essential in applications where waterproofing or insulation is necessary. These materials are also excellent for reducing vibrations, making them ideal for sensitive equipment. Plastic washers, though less common than others, find prevalence in lightweight applications where non-metallic materials are preferred to ensure specific resistances or insulation properties. By following a basic washer materials guide, finding the right fit is made simple.

When selecting a washer, it is crucial to consider the application and the strength of the bolt or screw being used. For high-strength fasteners, the chosen washer should be able to bear all loads without deforming to avoid the assembly being compromised. Another factor is size, as the diameter of the washer should align with the size of the bolt or screw to ensure a secure fit. Oversized washers may not distribute the load evenly, while undersized washers can cause the fastener to loosen over time. Similarly, the thickness of the washer affects its ability to handle pressure and prevent the fastener from pulling through the material being fastened. By paying attention to these specifications, you can be sure that the washer will perform its intended function and support the longevity of the assembly.

When selecting washers, it is also essential to consider factors such as installation requirements and ease of maintenance. Those that are easy to install and remove without necessitating complex tooling will generally help reduce assembly time and make maintenance more efficient. It is also useful to choose washers that have safeguards against any known elements that could pose an issue, ensuring that repairs and replacements do not have to be carried out as often.

For customers seeking competitive options on aircraft washers and other forms of hardware for operations, World of Fasteners is a one-stop shop with over 2 billion items currently available for purchase. All of these can be found across our curated catalogs and product lists, where Request for Quote (RFQ) forms are always readily accessible online for the means of obtaining tailored pricing information from our staff. Simply provide our staff crucial details concerning your operational needs, and a member of our staff will contact you in 15 minutes or less with customized solutions for your consideration. Experience all that we have to offer today when you get in touch with one of our industry experts.