Other Industries

For more than 75 years, APM Hexseal has been creating innovative sealing solutions for customers in every industry. The company leverages its extensive knowledge and hands-on experience to create innovative sealing fasteners that meet the most rigorous expectations. In this article, APM discusses the purpose of washers and their uses with fasteners.

A washer is a mechanical component that consists of a circular flattened metal, plastic, or rubber disk with a hole through the middle. Washers are typically used with fasteners such as screws and bolts to distribute the load of the fastener, prevent damage to sensitive surface materials, and reduce the potential for leaks. Are washers necessary? That depends largely on the application and the substrate. 

How do washers work with fasteners?

To enhance fastener performance, a washer is placed on the bolt or screw between the head and the mating surface. In some applications, washers may also be placed between the nut and object surface. 

What is the purpose of a washer?

Fasteners join two or more surfaces together through the use of threaded screws or bolts. Washers are incorporated into fastening hardware for everything from wooden furniture to automotive engines. 

Since not all applications require them, it can be difficult to determine when to use washers. To determine whether a washer is appropriate for your application, it is important to know how washers work with bolts, screws, and other fasteners. Washers serve a variety of purposes, including: 

• Load Distribution: Fasteners exert high levels of force when installed. Washers help to distribute that load over a larger area to prevent damage to the material. Without washers, materials are more likely to crack due to tightening pressure.
• Spacing: If the length of the bolt or screw is greater than the object’s thickness, it is impossible to sufficiently tighten the fastener without the screw protruding from the other side. By adding washers before installation, you can create enough space to prevent the fastener from going too far into the substrate.
• Absorbing Vibrations: Washers made from plastic or rubber absorb vibrations in high vibration applications. Vibration reduction keeps the fasteners from loosening over time and helps to protect both the fasteners and the attached equipment from vibration damage.
• Sealing Connections: Washers can be used to seal joints on piping, tubing, and ductwork, to create a waterproof seal that prevents gas or fluid leakage. By creating an airtight, watertight seal, washers can prevent liquid from leaking around the drilled fastener holes.

Seeloc^® washers from APM Hexseal

Using the latest technology, APM Hexseal has created a self-sealing washer that provides all the benefits of traditional washer materials, with an added robust sealing component, in one convenient package. APM’s state of the art Seeloc^® washers consist of strong, corrosion-resistant stainless steel bonded to flexible silicone rubber, for a soft yet durable sealing and fastening solution.

Seeloc^® washers are self-sealing for use with traditional screws, nuts, and bolts. The business also offers captivated designs for time-sensitive applications. They are available in imperial and metric sizes, in both standard and heavy duty. The captivated Seeloc^® washers remain attached to the screw, which reduces the potential for lost parts and allows for quicker, easier installation. These washers are durable, robust and reusable – making them a smart economic choice for applications where frequent access or maintenance are required. They are also UL listed, making them ideal for NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) rated enclosures.

Learn more about APM’s quality sealing solutions

Whether a vibration-absorbent bonded washer for industrial machinery or a captivated sealing washer for automotive equipment is needed, APM Hexseal has the ideal solution for any applications. For more information on our innovative self-sealing fasteners and other sealing solutions, ask the experts at APM Hexseal.