WASHERS

Circulars disks made up of metallic or non-metallic material fixed with a nut are called Washers (plain, spring and locking washers). Also washers are placed beneath a joint to relieve friction, an axle bearing, to stop leakage and loosening, or to distribute pressure. In order to prevent the loss of preload after torque is applied bolted joints need hardened steel washers. The characterisation and measurement of washers is done by either metric or imperial design units and their dimension can be specified by standard and gauged values, or may be customised for particular applications.