Washer

Overview of Our Washer Collection

Washers are often the most overlooked component in a fastener assembly, yet they play a vital role in mechanical stability. A washer acts as a smooth barrier, protecting the mating surface from the rotation of the bolt or nut, while also expanding the surface area to distribute pressure. Our inventory focuses on the three most critical types: Flat Washers for general load distribution, Spring Washers for preventing loosening due to vibration, and Square Washers for heavy-duty channel or timber applications.

Selection Guide: Washer Types and Functions

While all our washers are made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, the shape defines the function. Choosing the correct profile is essential for the safety of the joint.

Washer Type	Key Characteristic	Primary Function	Typical Application
Flat Washer	Smooth, flat ring.	Distributes load; protects surface from damage.	General assembly, preventing bolt heads from pulling through soft materials.
Spring Washer	Split ring (helical coil).	Acts as a spring to maintain tension; prevents loosening.	Machinery, automotive parts, and assemblies subject to vibration.
Square Washer	Square plate with central hole.	Larger surface area; prevents rotation in channels.	Timber construction, strut channels, and heavy structural fastening.

Quality Assurance and Documentation

Material consistency is crucial for preventing corrosion failure. We provide EN 10204 Type 3.1 Material Test Certificates (MTC) free of charge upon request. This document verifies the chemical composition of the stainless steel batch, ensuring it meets the required A2 or A4 specifications. Please indicate your need for this documentation when placing your order. Third-party inspections are also available for an additional fee.

Industrial Applications

Our stainless steel washers are essential in industries where longevity is required. Flat washers are standard in electrical enclosures to protect delicate coatings. Square washers are heavily used in construction and timber framing to prevent bolt heads from crushing wood fibers. Spring washers are a staple in industrial machinery to counteract the effects of operational vibration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use a stainless steel washer with a stainless steel bolt?

Using the same material is critical to prevent galvanic corrosion. If you use a carbon steel washer with a stainless steel bolt, the washer will rust sacrificially and stain the assembly. Furthermore, using a stainless washer ensures consistent thermal expansion rates, keeping the joint tight during temperature fluctuations.

Do spring washers actually lock the bolt?

Spring washers (split lock washers) do not "lock" the bolt in the traditional sense like a distinct locking nut or chemical adhesive. Instead, they provide a live spring action. As the bolt is tightened, the washer flattens, exerting an axial force that increases friction at the threads, which helps prevent the fastener from rattling loose under light to moderate vibration.

When should I use a square washer instead of a flat washer?

Square washers are typically larger and thicker than standard flat washers. You should use them when fastening into soft materials like wood (to prevent crushing) or when working with metal channels (Uni-strut) where the square shape wedges against the channel walls to prevent the washer and bolt assembly from spinning during tightening.