Product Overview
The Spring Washer is a dynamically acting fastener designed specifically to prevent loosening in bolted joints subjected to vibration, thermal cycling, or dynamic loads. Its split-ring, helical form exerts a continuous spring force against the nut or bolt head, maintaining clamp load and compensating for material relaxation. It serves as a cost-effective, reusable locking element in a wide range of industrial and automotive applications.
Key Advantages
Vibration Resistance: The primary function is to resist self-loosening under vibration (Junker test principle).
Constant Spring Force: Maintains tension in the joint, compensating for settlement and thermal expansion/contraction.
Reusability: Can generally be reused multiple times without significant loss of performance, unlike many chemical adhesives.
Easy Installation & Inspection: Simple to install and its visible compression indicates applied preload.
Electrical Contact: The cutting edges can bite through surface oxides, improving electrical continuity in grounding applications.
Material Specifications & Performance
| Material Standard | Grade / Type | Typical Hardness (HRC) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Steel | ASTM AISI 1050 / 1070 | 40 – 50 | High elastic limit, excellent fatigue resistance, general purpose. |
| Carbon Steel | ASTM AISI 1065 / 1075 | 38 – 45 | Good balance of strength and elasticity, commonly plated. |
| Stainless Steel | ASTM AISI 302 / 316 | – | Corrosion resistance for harsh environments, good spring properties. |
| Copper Alloy | C17200 / C51000 | – | Non-magnetic, good conductivity, moderate corrosion resistance. |
Product Series & Standards
Standard Helical Spring Lock Washers: Compliant with DIN 127, ASME B18.21.1, and ISO 10683.
Heavy-Duty Spring Washers: Thicker cross-section for higher loads (e.g., DIN 128 Form A).
Wave Spring Washers: Provide a lower spring rate and more uniform load distribution (DIN 2093).
Size Range: Covers standard screw sizes from M2 to M24 (Metric) and #4 to 1″ (Imperial).
Surface Finishes
| Finish Type | Standard / Specification | Primary Purpose & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plain / Uncoated (Spring Steel) | – | Standard finish, often slightly oiled for storage. |
| Zinc Plated (Blue/Trivalent) | ASTM B633 | Most Common. Provides basic corrosion protection (e.g., 72 hrs salt spray). |
| Phosphated & Oiled | – | Enhances corrosion resistance and facilitates break-in. |
| Passivation (Stainless Steel) | ASTM A967 | Maximizes the inherent corrosion resistance of stainless steel. |
| Electroplated Nickel | ASTM B456 | Good corrosion & wear resistance, decorative appearance. |
Function & Application Notes
Mechanism: Works through both elastic rebound and the bite of its sharp edges into the mating surface and fastener.
Correct Installation: Must be installed with the split side against the rotating component (usually the nut) for maximum effectiveness.
Limitations: Performance can be reduced on very hard or soft surfaces. Not recommended for joints subjected to extreme or continuous rotation.
Typical Applications: Automotive components, machinery bases, electrical panel grounding, pump and motor assemblies, fabricated structures.
Quality Assurance
Our spring washers are manufactured from certified materials and undergo process controls including:
Dimensional verification per applicable standards.
Hardness testing to ensure proper spring performance.
Salt spray testing on finished batches (as per finish specification).
Production under ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems.
Manufacturing Expertise
Our production utilizes precision stamping and heat treatment processes to ensure consistent cross-section, correct radial spring rate, and required hardness. Hebei Wohe Fastener Manufacturing Co., Ltd. leverages automated sorting and packaging to deliver defect-free products suitable for automated assembly lines, meeting the demands of global OEMs and distributors.
Availability: Full range of standard sizes are typically in stock.
Customization: Available in special sizes, non-standard materials, and unique finishes.
MOQ: Standard items: negotiable. Custom projects: subject to engineering review.
Lead Time: Standard items: 10-15 days. Custom items: quoted upon specification confirmation.
The effectiveness of a spring washer depends on correct joint design, proper installation torque, and application conditions. It is recommended to evaluate its suitability through testing for critical applications. Specifications are subject to change with product improvement.
