A washer is a simple tool that can sometimes be the difference between a successful and an unsuccessful use of a machine. A washer is a small disc that fits between a bolt and a surface. You can also put washers on the nut side of the nut and bolt. They work well since they offer a strong, resilient surface into which to mount your bolt. Washers also spread the amount of force expressed on the bolt over a wider area. Even an area of a few millimeters can make the difference when it comes to diffusing force.
Washers can diffuse force simply by existing, and are the most common ones you’ll find from a flat washer supplier. There are also conical washers, spring washers, and many others. In most applications, a flat washer is actually sufficient. Depending on the amount of spring you need, you might choose a different material.
Spring Steel
Spring steel is a low-carbon steel, typically high in nickel and/or chromium. The nickel and/or chromium gives them an amount of flex that doesn’t warp or break the washer. A flat washer supplier typically has many options for spring steel washers.
There are other types of washers made from similar steels as well.
Plastic or Nylon
Plastic or nylon flat washers serve their purpose well since they are bendable and very flexible. However, they will warp under high pressure. A plastic or nylon washer is best used for lower pressure applications, especially when the surface can be damaged by metal washers.
There are also many other materials you could use for a washer. Copper is a metal that has many of the features you might want from a plastic washer. Iron, on the other hand, is unbendable. It might break under enough pressure, but will not bend.