Types of Washers Chart

Washers are multipurpose fasteners that are vital in a variety of applications. In general, washers have two main functions: to distribute the pressure of the nut evenly over a surface without damage, and to ensure that the nut is pressed against a smooth surface to reduce the chances of loosening over time.

What are the different types of washers?

Choosing the right type of washer for the task at hand first requires understanding the overall structure of the different kinds. Learn about the different types of washers to see which fits your needs:

Type of Washer	Description	Shape	Use
Structural	Top-bearing surface is cut at an oblique angle to compensate for nonparallel surfaces	Round or square	Structural leveling and shimming applications
Conical or Spring	Slight dish shape and edges that are sheared parallel to the center line to increase elasticity of join	Round	Good for absorbing shock and maintaining tension under dynamic loads
Countersunk	Allows flat or oval head countersunk screws to be flush	Round	Allows for a finished appearance
Fender	Large outside diameter provides extra wide bearing surface	Round	Used to distribute force/stress and can cover oversized holes
Flat	The most common type of washer, with two flat surfaces	Round or square	Used to distribute force/stress of a nut or bolt and reduces friction and heat during installation of threaded fastener
Sealing	Made of relatively soft materials	Round	Forms a seal around a bolt or fastener and sometimes bonds to metallic washers
Slotted	Has a slot the same width as the hold diameter that is cut from the center to the perimeter	Round	Slips on and off shaft without removing the fastener
Spherical	Two piece equalizing assembly with one flat washer and one dish-shaped washer	Round	Eliminates unequal thread loads and stress from misaligned parts and nonparallel surfaces
Split Lock	Split with one end bent slightly outward to bite in and prevent loosening	Round	Acts like a spring under compression to provide extra holding force and decrease frictional resistance during assembly and disassembly
Tooth Lock	Has directional teeth or serrated edges, also referred to as star washers	Round	Edges bite into fastener to prevent loosening
Wave	Wavy shape, hence the name	Round	Shape compensates spring force, increases load-bearing capacity, absorbs shock and vibrations, and resists loosening and fatigue

Sources:

https://www.reyher.de/en/download-area/catalogue-fastener-guide

The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.