The use of washers, specifically those that are flat and designed to sit under a nut or extend just slightly beyond a nut, is a must have item in most Omaha fabrication, manufacturing and service industries.
The humble flat washer is actually an important part of any nut and bolt combination and offers a both security in holding the nut in the tightened position as well as a way to evenly distribute the pressure from the nut across the surface of the materials being fastened.
Materials
There are many different types of flat washers that are available. Choosing the ideal option will help to not only secure the nut but also to provide the additional requirements needed for a particular job.
All flat washers will be a ring shape, with an inner diameter that matches the bolt diameter and an outer diameter that is at least the diameter of the nut. In some situations, two or more flat washers can be used together, or a very wide outer diameter can be used to distribute the pressure of the nut and bolt across a wide surface. This prevents dimpling at the sight of the fastener.
Common materials for plain washers include stainless steel, most metals including aluminum, copper, bronze, and iron, as well as specialized alloys such as Inconel and Hastelloy and plastics or nylon. Other materials can also include ceramics, fiber, leather, felt and rubber.
Characteristics to Consider
The specific characteristics of the material need to be considered when selecting the correct washer. For example, in an Omaha outdoor area or where high humidity may be a concern, stainless steel, Inconel or even some of the plastics would be a superior choice to a fiber material such as felt.
In most applications, the stainless steel, metal or plastic washers are considered good options for general use. Other factors such as heat and cold, exposure to chemicals or other factors may also need to be considered.
