Stainless Steel Spring Washers

Spring washers have a unique split-ring design. This gives the component a spring like action when it is compressed during an application. This function provides certain mechanical properties to an application. Spring washers provide elasticity, which is able to store potential energy when it is compressed. The spring washer will respond to compression by exerting an equal force in the opposite direction. This pushes back against both the nut and the surface it is being fastened to, creating tension. Being under tension means the spring washer will help to keep the nut above it secure. This provides an element of vibration damping and reduces the ability of vibrations, thermal expansion and external forces to loosen the nut.

One common use case for spring washers is within the manufacturing industry where they are used to secure various machine parts that are commonly exposed to vibrations during operation. Spring washers are also used in the railway industry during the installation of railway tracks. When used with fasteners to secure rail joints the spring washers will assist with withstanding the forces and vibrations exerted by trains travelling over the tracks. Spring washers are worth considering as part of a fastening solution for an application that will experience vibrations and impacts from external forces.

Spring washers are often referred to as split washers, due to their split ring design. Some people might also describe them as spring lock washers and crescent washers. It is also common to use DIN standards to specify different types of spring washers. To give an example, we sell din127 spring washers which utilise a rectangular shaped cross-section at the washer's split. Similarly, din7980 is used to refer to another variety which includes a square shaped section at the split.

Vital Parts takes pride in offering a wide selection of spring washer sizes, we offer metric sizing from M2 up to M48. Historically, m8 spring washers have been our bestselling product. This is closely followed by m6 spring washers and m10 spring washers. If you do need a size of split washer that isn't listed here please contact us and we will be happy to help source your requirements.

One advantage of using spring washers for an application is that they are generally reusable. This is especially true for spring washers made from high quality materials. Premium products like our stainless steel spring washers will usually retain their spring-like properties and elasticity long after their initial application is completed. These spring washers can easily be removed and re-installed into a new application. However, spring washers should be cleaned thoroughly and inspected for signs of deformation or damage before reusing them. It is also not advisable to reuse spring washers in critical or high load applications.

Spring washers and split washers refer to the same component. A split washer is a helical ring with a cut (split) that creates spring tension when compressed under a fastener. This spring force helps prevent nuts and bolts from loosening due to vibration, movement or thermal changes. The term "spring washer" describes its function, while "split washer" describes its shape.

Use stainless steel split washers when you need a locking effect to stop a nut or bolt from loosening over time. Split washers apply spring tension against the fastener, making them ideal for machinery, engines, structural fixings and outdoor installations. Flat washers, on the other hand, only spread load and do not prevent loosening, so they are not suitable for high-vibration or dynamic assemblies.

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