What Are Washers?
Washers are flat discs, typically with a central hole, installed between a fastener and the material it clamps. Their primary function is to distribute the applied force over a larger surface area, reducing the likelihood of surface deformation, loosening or fatigue. Common types include lock washers, Type A narrow (SAE), Type B wide (USS) and custom washers.
What Are Commercial Flat Washers?
Commercial flat washers are general-purpose components made to nonstandardized but commonly accepted dimensions. They are typically manufactured from unhardened materials and are ideal for use in assemblies that do not require exacting specifications. Flat washers increase the bearing surface of a bolt head or nut and distribute pressure away from the points of the hex or square.
Their large bearing surface makes them suitable for distributing loads in assemblies using softer or less uniform materials. At the same time, their availability in a wide range of alloys allows for reliable performance in harsh or corrosive environments.
Industries and Applications
Commercial flat washers deliver consistent, reliable performance across numerous industries, helping maintain assembly strength and stability.
Construction
Commercial flat washers improve reliability in light and heavy construction assemblies, especially where fasteners contact soft substrates or require additional bearing surface.
- Applications: Steel frameworks, wooden beams, concrete structures
- Materials: Stainless steel, aluminum alloys
Manufacturing
Washers in manufacturing settings reinforce machine assembly joints and protect delicate surfaces from fastener stress.
- Applications: Equipment frames, conveyor systems, tooling fixtures
- Materials: Stainless steel alloys, Hastelloy®, Inconel®, Monel®
Industrial Equipment
In manufacturing and heavy machinery, commercial flat washers help reduce maintenance by supporting secure, long-lasting fastener joints.
- Applications: Machine frames, conveyor assemblies, electrical enclosures
- Materials: Stainless steel alloys
Household Appliances
Commercial flat washers help prevent damage and distribute load in household appliances.
- Applications: Television sets, Wi-Fi routers, electric kettles
- Materials: Stainless steel, aluminum alloys
Chemical Processing
Commercial flat washers made of exotic alloys prevent localized stress and surface damage in corrosive settings.
- Applications: Pump housings, containment systems, pipe supports
- Materials: Hastelloy®, Monel®, Alloy 20
Tips for Purchasing Commercial Flat Washers
Selecting the right commercial flat washer requires consideration of several key factors:
- Verify dimensions: Check the inner and outer diameter and thickness against your bolt or screw specifications.
- Match material to environment: Select alloys that withstand your project’s temperature or corrosion requirements.
- Request custom solutions: For specialized needs, consult with Nickel Systems about custom manufacturing or exotic material options.
- Check load requirements: Ensure the washer’s size and thickness support the expected mechanical load.
