Jul 07, 2014

Types of Construction Washers

In general, construction washers are used as a means of distributing the load of a screw or nut. However, these devices can be far more specific in terms of their function, and there are three types of washers available to customers.

The Plain Washer

Plain washers are responsible for ensuring that the surface on which the nut or screw is located is not damaged. They can also provide different types of insulation, such as electrical. Several different washers fall into this category, including plain, fender, and penny washers. All of these devices are flat in appearance, which allows a load to be spread more evenly.

The Spring Washer

These washers have what is known as axial flexibility, and this feature prevents a fastening from loosening due to vibrations. One of the most powerful devices in this category is the Belleville washer, which possesses a conical shape that provides a large amount of axial force. Wave washers are other useful members of the spring group. Their name refers to the fact that they have a wave in the axial direction, providing them with spring pressure when compressed.

The Lock Washer

Lock and spring washers perform essentially the same function, and the names are often used interchangeably. Both are used as a way to prevent a fastener from becoming loose and unscrewing from a surface. A notable device found within this category would be the tooth-locked washer. The serrations that extend from the washer allow it to remain secured to a surface, and it is especially useful when being applied to softer materials such as aluminum or plastic.

Knowing the Right Type to Buy

There are so many different construction washers that fall into these three general groups. Some other notable kinds include fender, torque, and bridge washers. For people that need to use these tools in a construction project, they should consider which type of washer would be the best choice for their situation. Not every type would be appropriate for a particular project. Call (800) 603-6887 today to learn more about construction washers, bridge washers, and wave washers available at Copper State.