Washers are one of the most common hardware items that are used in many applications. Washers are flat and thin plates with a hole in the center. It is common because it can be used to evenly distribute the load of a nut or screw. Washers can also be employed as spacers, wear pads, locking devices plus it can minimize vibrations.
You are familiar with the concept of washers but you will be surprised to learn that there are different types available. It is important that you know how to distinguish between the washers and the materials used. Here are the types of washers and what materials they are fabricated from:
What are the types of washers?
Superior Washer Company categorizes washers in three types:
• Plain washers: this is the most common type of washer. It is also known as flatwashers. These washers are created to evenly distribute the load at the same time protect the surface from damage. Examples of plain washers include fender washer, spherical washer, anchor plate and torque washer.
• Spring washers: the next type is a spring washer. Spring washers are known for its axial flexibility. Spring washers are important for machines or equipment that generate strong vibrations. Examples include Belleville washers, wave washers, split washers, tab washers and serrated washer.
• Locking washers: locking washers are special washers that are employed to avoid loosening or fastening. In fact, it works like a spring washer.
What about the Type A and B washers?
Aside from the three types of washers mentioned above, you might come across washers with labels “Type A” and “Type B”. These are actually standards created by the American National Standards Institute. Do not be confused. Type A refers to washers with a wide tolerance. Type B, on the other hand, refers to washers with a tighter tolerance.
What are the material types?
Now that you know the different types of washers, it is time to consider the different materials they are fabricated from. The most common type of material used is steel. Steel washers include spring steel, carbon steel, and stainless steel. Other materials used to fabricate washers include metal (such as copper, brass, iron, bronze, aluminum, titanium and zinc), alloy (such as silicon bronze, Inconel and Hastelloy), plastic (like Teflon, polyethylene and other thermoplastics) and specialty (such as ceramics, leather, felt, and rubber).
If the application involves exposure to moisture, steel or metal washers are not ideal because Superior Washer Company can lead to rust, which can highly damage the joint. If this is the case, rubber washers should be used since it is corrosive resistant. Aside from that, rubber materials also ensure silent machine operation.
