Different Types of Metal and Rubber Washers
Washers are essential fastening components that enhance the efficiency, safety, and durability of mechanical assemblies. Below is a detailed breakdown of different types of washers with their specifications.
Metal Washers
| Material |
Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, Aluminum, Alloys |
| Shape |
Flat circular disc with central hole |
| Function |
Load distribution, surface protection, spacing |
| Applications |
Machinery, automotive, structural fastening |
| Features |
High strength, corrosion-resistant options available |
| Benefits |
Prevents damage to surfaces, extends bolt/nut life |
Copper Washers
| Material |
Pure copper / copper alloys |
| Properties |
High malleability, corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity |
| Applications |
Hydraulic systems, plumbing, electrical fittings |
| Features |
Provides excellent sealing, anti-galling |
| Standards |
DIN 7603, ISO, ASTM standards available |
| Benefits |
Ideal for sealing in high-temperature or high-pressure environments |
Alloy Washers
| Material |
Nickel alloys, titanium alloys, high-strength steel alloys |
| Properties |
Superior hardness, wear resistance, tensile strength |
| Applications |
Aerospace, defense, heavy machinery, oil & gas |
| Features |
Withstands extreme loads and environments |
| Benefits |
Long service life, high durability |
Aluminum Washers
| Material |
Aluminum alloys (5052, 6061) |
| Properties |
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, non-magnetic, good conductivity |
| Applications |
Automotive, aerospace, marine, electronics |
| Features |
Low weight, easy to machine, anodized finish available |
| Benefits |
Reduces assembly weight, corrosion resistant, aesthetic finish |
Metric Washers
| Standard |
ISO 7089/7090, DIN, JIS |
| Sizes |
M2 to M64 (varies by type) |
| Applications |
Machinery, automotive, construction using metric fasteners |
| Features |
Dimensional accuracy, standardized thicknesses, interchangeable |
| Benefits |
Easy compatibility with metric bolts, ensures proper load distribution |
Plain Washers
| Material |
Steel, stainless steel, brass, aluminum |
| Shape |
Flat round disc with central hole |
| Applications |
General fastening, load distribution, surface protection |
| Features |
Simple geometry, multiple finishes, economical |
| Benefits |
Prevents surface damage, distributes bolt load |
Stainless Steel Washers
| Material Grades |
SS 304, SS 316, SS 410 |
| Properties |
Corrosion-resistant, durable, hygienic |
| Applications |
Marine, chemical, food processing, outdoor structures |
| Features |
Durable finish, long life in corrosive environments |
| Benefits |
Minimal maintenance, rust-resistant, reliable in harsh conditions |
Washer (General)
| Definition |
Thin plate with central hole to distribute load or act as spacer/seal |
| Types |
Flat, spring, lock, countersunk, cup, sealing |
| Applications |
All mechanical, electrical, industrial assemblies |
| Benefits |
Improves fastening reliability, prevents loosening, protects surfaces |
| Material |
Natural rubber, EPDM, Neoprene, Nitrile, Silicone |
| Properties |
Flexible, compressible, vibration damping, sealing against liquids/gases |
| Applications |
Plumbing, appliances, sealing, vibration isolation |
| Benefits |
Prevents leaks, reduces noise, protects surfaces |
Cup Washers
| Material |
Steel, Brass, Stainless steel, Plated finishes |
| Shape |
Cup-shaped with central hole, may be countersunk |
| Applications |
Furniture, decorative fixtures, visible fastenings |
| Benefits |
Provides neat finishing, secures fasteners, distributes small loads |
Felt Washers
| Material |
Compressed felt (wool or synthetic fibers) |
| Properties |
Cushioning, sound & vibration damping, oil retention |
| Applications |
Musical instruments, machinery, automotive components |
| Benefits |
Reduces vibration, prolongs equipment life, absorbs oils |
| Material |
Mild steel with zinc coating (hot-dip/electro-galvanized) |
| Properties |
Corrosion-resistant, economical, durable outdoors |
| Applications |
Construction, fencing, roofing, structural fixings |
| Benefits |
Affordable corrosion protection, reliable in outdoor use |
Brass Washers
| Material |
Brass (Copper-Zinc alloy, e.g., C260) |
| Properties |
Corrosion-resistant, attractive finish, non-sparking |
| Applications |
Plumbing, marine, decorative fittings, electrical connectors |
| Benefits |
Durable, corrosion-resistant, aesthetically pleasing |
Mild Steel Spring Washers
| Material |
Mild steel, heat-treated optionally, plated (zinc/black oxide) |
| Properties |
Elastic, maintains preload, resists loosening under vibration |
| Applications |
Automotive, machinery, electrical cabinets |
| Features |
Split or conical type, spring action for bolt tension |
| Benefits |
Prevents loosening, improves bolted joint reliability |
Choosing the right washer type depends on application requirements, load conditions, and environmental exposure. From stainless steel for corrosion resistance to rubber for sealing, each washer plays a specialized role in ensuring fastening reliability.
