Correct Usage of Washers

In the field of mechanical design and manufacturing, washers are commonly used parts that fill the gaps between two components to enhance the stability and sealing of the connection. There are many types of washers, among which toothed washers, double-stacked self-locking washers, and spring washers are frequently used by mechanical engineers. Below, we will discuss the characteristics, application scenarios, and correct usage methods of these three types of washers.

1. Toothed Washer

A toothed washer, as the name suggests, has teeth on its edge and is primarily used to enhance the anti-loosening performance of the connecting components. Toothed washers are commonly used in applications with many fasteners, such as in engines, gearboxes, and other transmission system components.

1. Usage Method:

(1) Clean the washer and the mating surface of the components to ensure there is no oil, rust, or other impurities.

(2) Place the washer on the mating surface between the two components, ensuring the washer is in the correct position.

(3) Pass the bolts through the washer, avoiding excessive tightening to prevent damage to the washer.

(4) Tighten the bolts to the specified torque to ensure a stable connection.

2. precautions:

(1) Choose an appropriate washer size to ensure proper tightness.

(2) Avoid using the wrong washer material, which could cause the washer to fail or be ineffective.

2. Double-Stacked Self-Locking Washer

A double-stacked self-locking washer is made up of two overlapping metal plates and has high elasticity and self-locking properties. This type of washer is widely used in engines, transmission systems, and other components of vehicles such as cars and motorcycles.

1. Usage Method:

(1) Clean the washer and the mating surface of the components to ensure there is no oil, rust, or other impurities.

(2) Place the double-stacked self-locking washer under the bolt, with the washer's outer diameter matching the size of the mating component.

(3) Pass the bolts through the washer, tighten appropriately to allow the washer to perform its self-locking function.

(4) Tighten the bolts to the specified torque to ensure a stable connection.

2. precautions:

(1) Do not use double-stacked self-locking washers in high-temperature, high-pressure, or corrosive environments.

(2) Avoid overtightening, which could damage the washer.

3. Spring Washer

A spring washer is a non-metallic washer with elasticity, usually made of materials such as silicone or rubber. Spring washers are primarily used to fill small gaps and improve the sealing performance of connecting components and are widely used in electronics, electrical appliances, and instruments.

1. Usage Method:

(1) Clean the washer and the mating surface of the components to ensure there is no oil, rust, or other impurities.

(2) Place the spring washer on the mating surface between the two components, ensuring the washer is in the correct position.

(3) Pass the bolts through the washer, tighten appropriately to allow the washer to perform its sealing function.

(4) Tighten the bolts to the specified torque to ensure a stable connection.

2. precautions:

(1) Choose an appropriate spring washer material to suit different operating environments.

(2) Avoid using the wrong washer size, which could lead to an unstable connection or reduced sealing performance.

In conclusion, toothed washers, double-stacked self-locking washers, and spring washers have significant application value in the field of mechanical engineering. Understanding their characteristics, application scenarios, and correct usage methods is essential for improving the efficiency of mechanical engineers and ensuring product quality. It is our hope that this article will help you better master the usage techniques of these three types of washers and contribute to our engineering endeavors.