In this article, APM Hexseal discusses what washers actually are and why they’re typically used with fasteners such as screws and bolts to distribute the load of the fastener.
A washer is a mechanical component that consists of a circular flattened metal, plastic, or rubber disk with a hole through the middle. As well as to distribute the load, washers are typically used to prevent damage to sensitive surface materials, as well as reduce the potential for leaks. Are washers necessary? That depends largely on the application and the substrate.
For more than 70 years, APM Hexseal has been creating innovative sealing solutions for customers in every industry, using its extensive knowledge and hands-on experience to create cutting-edge sealing fasteners that meet the most rigorous expectations.
The purpose of washers
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.
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.
Since not all applications require them, it can be difficult to determine when to use washers. Washers serve a variety of purposes, including:
- Load distribution: Fasteners exert high-levels of force when installed. Washers help to distribute that load 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, 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 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.
Why washers are used with fasteners
To determine whether a washer is appropriate for your application, it is important to know how washers work with bolts, screws, and other fasteners. When you add a washer, the force exerted by the fastener is spread out over a larger area, reducing the potential for cracks due to pressure and stress.
Washers also help to ensure that the bolts and screws fit snugly. By threading the fastener through the washer before installation, it ensures that the fastener doesn’t go too deeply into the surface material. Washers are also used for vibration reduction. Vibration isolation washers are manufactured using soft vibration-absorbent materials like rubber or plastic. They help to absorb vibration, reducing the amount of stress applied to the fastener and surrounding equipment. By creating an airtight, watertight seal, washers can also prevent liquid from leaking around the drilled fastener holes in plumbing and process piping and connections.
Seeloc washers from APM Hexseal
Using the latest technology, APM Hexseal has created a washer that provides all of the benefits of traditional washer materials in one convenient package. 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. Also available are 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.
Whether you need a vibration absorbent bonded washer for industrial machinery or a captivated sealing washer for automotive equipment, APM Hexseal has the perfect solution.
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
