Washers are usually a circular pieces of metal with a hole formed in the center. You can use these by placing it on the end of a bolt to separate a nut from the surface from which the bolt is extending. This tool can work to provide a surface that the nut can tighten against. This can also work next to the head of a bolt to secure it in place when tightened. In general, this will lock the nut in place and tighten down on the bolt. Using a washer will help to prevent the nut from working loose during use. Manufacturer of Flat Washers has many types of locks with the assorted sizes. Know the common sizes necessary for home projects for an easy buy.
The Washer Styles
You can find many washer styles available at the home improvement centers. There are six basic types of washers today: the flat, shoulder, tab, lock, countersunk and spring. These types have a few specialty styles to work on.
- The Flat Washer. This is the most common type that includes a large number of washer configurations. You can see this in thin, flat and circular style with a hole in the center. This is actually for general-purpose works. The shapes will vary depending on the function of the washer.
- Shoulder Washers. This type is also known as a step or flange washers with an integral cylindrical sleeve. The shape gives them the appearance of a low-crowned top hat. This style is useful and designed to mate with a cutout. This can also segregate the fastener from the material it works on. These washers work as insulators in the electronic equipment industry.
- Tab Washers. This is usually round in shape and often manufactured with a single and many tab notches. This lock washer forms to shape around bolts or nuts or designed to lay flat. This type is ideal for use in harsh environments. This can lock parts into place in with extreme heat or heavy vibrations.
- Lock Washers. These washers can help secure fasteners that tend to rotate or lose friction. This one can exert a load, deform and lock a fastener in place. It has a split coil that bites into the head of the fastener and against another flat surface. This can work along with a flat washer to distribute an even load without deforming the assembly.
- Countersunk Washers. These are the finishing washers that captures the head of the fastener. The countersunk provides a flush surface and are available in several shapes. You can find this type on some of the consumer products.
- Spring Washers. This is also known as a disc washer. This type compress with a proportionate resistance to return to their pre-deflected shape. Use this washer for applications that need a part to take up play and maintain assembly tension. This can also compensate for expansion or contraction in materials. Using this washer is ideal to absorb intermittent shock loads.
Spring washers provide a controlled reaction under dynamic loads. These are cheaper, small and generally weigh less than alternative fasteners. You can find three basic types of spring washers. This comes in a cylindrically curved, wave and Belleville shape.
When buying a lock washer, make sure that it is large enough to slip and place the bolt tightly. You can make use of the types as described above in selecting the specific uses.