
A washer is a flat piece of metal that has a hole in the middle. It is used for several reasons. It can be a spacer and it can distribute the load of the fastener. The bolt will pass through the hole in the washer. Metal washers are produced using a number of methods.

There are different washer categories including plain, lock and spring. Each category has several different types of washers. They are used for a variety of different applications. They can be used with bolts, nuts, screws or any other type of fastener. When there is a washer in the fastener combination, you will find it easier to remove a nut from the bolt and it will be easier to install it as well. If you don’t include a washer in the fastener combination, they tend to deform or you will see small cracks on the surface.
They are also used as spacers; in certain instances you will notice that there is a space between the work piece and the head of the fastener. This space can be bridged using a metal washer. There are also sealing washers that are used to prevent leaks. It has a layer of neoprene or any other material that is bonded to the metal of the washer to create a tight seal.
Metal washers are made by a stamping process. There is a die attached to the power press ram that will determine the form of the washer. You can stamp or press a large number of washers from one sheet of metal. The gauge of the metal used will determine the thickness of the washer. This will contribute to the damping abilities, support and rigidity of the washer. There are standards provided for the manufacturing of washers.
You will find different quality standards for industrial and public applications. The type of metal the washer is made out of will have an impact on the cost, strength and corrosion resistance. You need to choose a washer that matches the materials that are used. A copper crush washer can be used for heat dissipating applications as well. Copper is a ductile material which makes it easier to shape the metal to the specifications you require.
Stainless steel is commonly used to create washers as it doesn’t corrode. You will find these mostly used in the automobile and aerospace industry. Galvanised steel has a coating of zinc and the surface of the washer is rough and uneven. You will also find that it comes in different colours. These washers are generally used in marine applications as zinc can withstand the effects of salt water.

Brass alloy has low friction properties and therefore, they are used in electrical and plumbing work. Aluminium also has protection against corrosion as it will create a layer of aluminium oxide when it is exposed to air. They are used in applications that require heat dissipation. This is because aluminium has a high level of electrical and thermal conduction.