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Washers might seem like simple components, but they play a crucial role in various applications across industries. From distributing load forces to preventing fastener damage and ensuring tight seals, washers come in diverse types, each tailored to specific needs. Using the right washer will ensure your building is weather-safe and corrosion resistant. In this blogpost, we'll delve into the world of washers, exploring their various types, functionalities, and applications.
Flat washers are the most common type, featuring a simple, flat design with a central hole. They distribute load forces, prevent damage to surfaces, and provide a smooth bearing surface for fasteners, and they are ideal for general-purpose applications in indoor, non-corrosive environments. They also offer several advantages like distributing evenly, protecting underlying surfaces from damage, and reducing friction. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of industries, from automotive to construction. Flat washers also aid in alignment and prevent leakage when used with seals or gaskets.
However, their limitations include having limited load-bearing capacity, vulnerability to compression over time, and the potential for corrosion if not made from a corrosion-resistant material. However, here at Engineering Edge Singapore, DYNO® sells high tensile carbon steel washers for surface bearing applications. Download our DYNO® Brochure here.
Lock washers are mechanical devices used to prevent fasteners from loosening under vibration or torque. They come in various types, including split lock washer, ribbed lock washer and many more, each designed to provide a locking action when installed between the nut or bolt head and the surface being fastened.
A split lock washer, also known as a helical spring washer, is characterized by its helical or spiral shape with a split cut along one side. This design allows the washer to compress and exert spring-like tension when installed under the head of a bolt or the nut, creating a locking action that resists loosening caused by vibration or rotational forces. Download our DYNO® washer's brochure here.
Split lock washers are also commonly used in various industries and applications where maintaining joint integrity is critical, such as automotive, construction, machinery, and aerospace. They are particularly effective in applications subject to dynamic loads or frequent movement, as the spring tension helps to prevent the fastener from loosening over time.
Despite their widespread use, lock washers have limitations. They may not be effective in all applications, especially with hardened or smooth surfaces where they can deform without providing sufficient locking force. Additionally, lock washers can potentially damage softer materials or fail to prevent loosening under extreme vibration. As a result, in high-stress or critical applications, alternative locking methods such as adhesive thread lockers or double-nut arrangements may be preferred. However, when properly selected and installed, lock washers remain a cost-effective and widely used solution for securing fasteners in many industrial and automotive settings.
Ribbed lock washers feature internal or external serrations or ridges that grip the surface of the fastener and the mating surface. These ridges create additional friction between the washer and the substrate, preventing loosening caused by vibration or rotational forces. Ribbed lock washers are available in internal and external configurations, with the choice depending on the specific application requirements. Internal ribbed lock washers have serrations on the inner diameter, which grip the fastener shaft, while external ribbed lock washers have serrations on the outer diameter, which grip the mating surface. This design variation allows for flexibility in application, catering to different fastening needs. Ribbed lock washers are commonly used in automotive, machinery, and industrial applications where secure fastening is essential.
However, they may not be suitable for softer materials or surfaces that can be damaged by the serrations. Additionally, over-tightening can deform the washer, reducing its effectiveness. Despite these considerations, ribbed lock washers offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for preventing loosening in various fastening applications. Take a look at our DYNO® SELFLOK brochure here.
Bonded washers are innovative components used in various industries, known for their exceptional sealing, and fastening properties. These washers, typically made of rubber or elastomeric materials, feature a bonded metal backing that enhances their durability and performance. They are designed to provide a reliable seal and prevent leakage in applications where conventional washers may fail to deliver optimal results. Bonded washers include EPDM washers, metal bonded washers and many more.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) washers are crucial components used in a wide range of applications for their exceptional sealing properties and resistance to weathering, ozone, and UV exposure. These washers, commonly made from EPDM rubber, are known for their flexibility, durability, and ability to maintain a reliable seal even in harsh environments. EPDM washers are widely used in industries such as construction, automotive, and plumbing, where they play a vital role in preventing leaks and ensuring the integrity of joints and connections. With their excellent weather resistance and long-lasting performance, EPDM washers are an ideal choice for applications where reliability and durability are paramount. Watch our CORROSHIELD® Unplugged Podcast on Water Sealing Effectiveness here.
Our grey CORROSHIELD® EPDM washers also offer distinct advantages over black EPDM Washers. Unlike the black ones, our grey washers are free from galvanic corrosion and black streaks, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and overall performance. Additionally, grey EPDM washers exhibit no corrosion acceleration, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability in various applications. With these features, our grey EPDM washers provide superior corrosion resistance and aesthetic quality compared to black EPDM washers. Read our blog on EPDM washers here.
Metal bonded washers are essential components used in various industries for their ability to create a tight seal and prevent leakage in fastening applications. These washers typically consist of a metal washer with a bonded rubber or elastomer layer, providing both sealing and vibration-damping properties. The metal component offers strength and durability, while the bonded rubber layer ensures a secure seal, even in high-pressure or dynamic environments. Metal bonded washers are commonly used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications, where they help prevent water leakage, protect against vibration-induced loosening of fasteners, and provide electrical insulation in electrical connections. Their versatility, reliability, and ability to withstand extreme conditions make metal bonded washers indispensable in various engineering and manufacturing processes. Refer to our brochures here.
Direct Tension Indicating (DTI) washers are designed to visually indicate the tension in bolts or fasteners. They feature unique markings or protrusions that deform under load, providing a clear visual confirmation of adequate tension. Typically placed beneath the bolt head or nut, these DTI washers create a gap with the protrusions.
When the bolt is tense, the clamping force flattens the protrusions and diminishes the gap. This washer design ensures proper tension on bolts. Additionally, when the DTI washers are integrated into bolted connections, it helps engineers tighten fasteners to the correct preload. As a result, the risk of under-or-over-tensioning is minimized, thereby enhancing the overall reliability and safety of the assembly.
DTI washers are also easy to install and can be quickly inspected for tension status during maintenance checks. However, there are some disadvantages to consider. DTI washers can be more expensive than traditional washers, which may increase the overall cost of the assembly. Additionally, they may require additional training for personnel to correctly interpret the tension indication markings. Furthermore, DTI washers are typically single-use components, meaning they must be replaced after each installation, adding to the ongoing maintenance costs of the application.
Here at Engineering Edge Singapore, we offer DYNO® RIGHTITE, suitable for S325M and S490M bolts, ensuring optimal bolt tension for your applications. Download our DYNO® brochure here.
The selection of washers is influenced by various factors such as the type of fastener, the materials involved, the environmental conditions and the specific requirements of the applications. To know more on the common types of screws, download our free E-Guide here.
When choosing washers based on application and type, flat washers are ideal for general indoors use where corrosion isn't a major problem. In environments prone to vibration-induced loosening, such as machinery settings, opt for lock washers to secure fastenings effectively. In outdoor applications exposed to moisture, corrosion, and weathering, bonded washers offer optimal sealing and weatherproofing, ensuring long-term durability and protection against the elements. To know how to prevent corrosion, read our blog here.
When choosing the fasteners to use with different types of washers, it is essential to consider factors like material compatibility, size, thread type, and application requirements. To know more on the common fasteners, download our E-Guide here.
When selecting washers for your project, also consider factors such as the type of fastener being used, the environmental conditions the fastener will be exposed to, the level of vibration present, and the desired level of corrosion resistance. Additionally, pay attention to the material and size of the washer to ensure compatibility with the fastener and the application. It's also important to assess whether any special features, such as bonding for weatherproofing or ribbing for enhanced grip, are needed to meet the specific requirements of your project. Finally, consider the load-bearing capacity and longevity of the washer to ensure it will provide reliable performance over time.
Other considerations in choosing the right washers involve evaluating load requirements and assessing washer size and dimensions. Don't hesitate to consult us as we provide you with tailored insights and recommendations that meet your project needs. Contact us here.
Washers are indispensable components in various industries, providing essential functions such as load distribution, fastener retention, and vibration resistance. Understanding the different types of washers and their applications is crucial for selecting the right washer for specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in engineering and construction projects. Whether it's a flat washer for general-purpose use or a specialized lock washer for high-vibration environments, choosing the appropriate washer can make a significant difference in the integrity and longevity of the assembly.
Engineering Edge (Singapore) is your trusted fastener manufacturer with a legacy of delivering top-quality solutions. Our commitment to innovation and extensive Research and Development has led to exceptional fastening products, surpassing conventional designs. Our global customers benefit from dedicated support via our team of engineers and authorized distributors in over 20 countries worldwide.
Discover TAPPERMAN® Fasteners, the preferred choice of retail fasteners for builder's marts or hardware stores, offering versatile display and packaging solutions. Choose DYNO® Fasteners for quality-compliant structural solutions that guarantee peace of mind. For innovation-packed anti-corrosion premium fasteners, turn to CORROSHIELD® Fasteners. Extensive research has enabled us to design coatings tailored to various hostile environments.
All our products, TAPPERMAN®, DYNO®, and CORROSHIELD®,are tested and documented in accordance with the ISO 16228 Standard, ensuring excellence across our entire screw range. Stay connected with our latest innovations and product features by following us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. If you like to listen to interesting industrial how-tos and whys, listen to our podcast! Questions or inquiries? Reach out via our Contact Us page, and our experts will promptly assist you.