Washers are small but they have a huge part to play in every device with moving parts. You know washers as an important component of fastened joints. They can also perform different functions aside from securing bolts, nuts, rivets, screws and other fastening devices. Washers can seal, lock, insulate, align parts, and distribute loads.
There are many types of washers made from different materials. Types of washers include plain washers, spring washers and locking washers. Plain washers are also called flat washers; they function by spreading the load thereby preventing damage to the surface. Spring washers are used to avert the fastening of devices because of vibrations and locking washers work like spring washers – it can also avert the fastening of devices.
In terms of materials, the most common one is steel. Steel washers include carbon steel, spring steel, and stainless steel. There are other materials provided by EPDM Washer Manufacturer like metals (aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, iron, and zinc), plastics (Teflon and polyethylene) and specialty materials (leather, ceramics, and rubber). If you consider a material that ensures silent machine operation and non-corrosive, rubber washers are mostly used.
You might be confused but it is crucial that you choose the right one for optimum performance. Remember that failure to identify the correct washer can lead to machine downtime and inevitably a loss of profit at the end of the day. You do not want this. If you need washers, you need to decide based on the following factors:
Tolerance
Tolerance refers to an allowable amount of variation of a specified quantity. In the case of washers, the general rule is the tighter the tolerance, the more expensive the part is. The tolerance should be specified according to industry standards.
Material and thickness
Another factor to consider is the material and thickness. These should depend on the application requirements determined by standard tolerances.
Hardness
Hardness refers to the property of materials, which enable it to resist deformation. The hardness should be considered especially if it will be used on heat-treated parts. It should also comply with the standard ranges of the specific material.
Compatibility
Compatibility refers to devices working together without having problems. The physical dimension of the washer including heat treatment and load should be compatible to ensure that they have optimum performance.
Flatness
The industry standard states that the flatness of the washer’s outside diameter should not be greater than 0.01 total indicator reading per inch. This is to get rid of expensive secondary operations like flattening or grinding.
Finish
Finish or surface coatings are used to enhance the appearance of the washer. It is also a practical corrosion-resistant solution. Finish is also used to identify the thickness of the washers. For example, washers that are 0.005-inch thick are colored green while washers that are 0.008-inch thick are colored orange.
Now that you know these things, it will be easier to choose washer that is perfect for your application to ensure optimal performance. The factors will surely provide a guide in specifying washers. However, the engineers can significantly benefit from the experience of an established manufacturer. With this, you need to check the nearest manufacturer.