What Is a Lock Washer?
Lock washers, designed to prevent loosening of bolts, screws, and nuts, play a vital role in securely fastening components together.
A washer is a thin metal ring placed between the head of a bolt (or screw) and the nut. Its primary functions are to prevent loosening and to protect the surface of components from damage during tightening.
Various types of lock washers exist, including nord-lock washers, ribbed-lock washers, spring washers, belleville washers, conical spring washers, and serrated conical spring washers.
Uses of Lock Washers
Lock washers are essential in machinery and vehicles subject to intense vibrations, preventing loosening that could lead to malfunctions or accidents. High-performance lock washers like nord-lock and ribbed lock washers are particularly effective in preventing both rotational and non-rotational loosening.
They are also crucial in electrical and precision machinery, where contact resistance is key. Lock washers increase the contact area, enhancing electrical signal transmission and reducing resistance.
In outdoor or humid environments, corrosion-resistant lock washers made of stainless steel or titanium are used to prevent rust and corrosion by creating a gap between the bolt or nut and the joined material.
Principles of Lock Washers
Lock washers address two main causes of loosening:
Rotational loosening: Caused by vibrations leading to reverse rotation of the bolt or nut.
Non-rotational loosening: Due to material contraction, such as in wood.
Types and principles:
1. Nord-Lock Washer
Nord-lock washers, with their unique two-piece serrated design, prevent rotational loosening by increasing tightening force when a bolt attempts to rotate in the opposite direction.
2. Ribbed-Lock Washer
Ribbed lock washers, with tapered ribs, embed into bolt seats and materials, maintaining tightening force over time to prevent rotational loosening.
Spring washers, with their simple spring-like design, offer cost-effective protection against both rotational and non-rotational loosening. Serrated conical spring washers provide enhanced resistance against loosening due to their serrated surface.
How to Choose Lock Washers
Selection of lock washers should be based on the specific causes of potential loosening, such as vibration, corrosion, or material contraction. Factors like size, type of screws, operating environment, and required resistance properties should guide the choice of washer.
Other Information on Lock Washers
About Magic Ring
The magic ring on titanox washers is a wedge-shaped mechanism that converts vibrations into increased tightening effects. This feature is particularly effective against vibrations from natural events or machinery, ensuring long-term strength and reliability in wooden structures.