Spring washers are essential fastening components designed to prevent nuts and bolts from loosening due to vibration or movement. These specialised washers feature a split ring design with a helical spring action that maintains constant tension on the fastener, providing reliable locking performance in demanding applications. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of spring washers in various materials and finishes to suit different environmental conditions and structural requirements.

Available in both A2 304 and A4 316 stainless steel grades, as well as zinc-plated options, the spring washer selection at MyToolShed caters to professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts requiring corrosion-resistant and durable fastening solutions. The spring action creates a continuous load on the threaded joint, compensating for material compression and thermal expansion whilst maintaining secure assembly integrity over time.

Applications

Spring washers are widely used across numerous trades and industries, including:

Construction and Steelwork: Structural steel connections, framework assemblies, and building installations where vibration resistance is critical
Automotive and Transport: Vehicle manufacturing, repair, and maintenance applications requiring secure fastening under constant movement
Mechanical Engineering: Machinery assembly, industrial equipment installation, and maintenance operations
Electrical Installations: Securing electrical equipment, control panels, and junction boxes where connections must remain tight
Marine Applications: Boat building and repair, particularly when using A4 316 stainless steel variants for superior saltwater corrosion resistance
General Maintenance: Workshop repairs, equipment refurbishment, and DIY projects requiring reliable fastening

Choosing The Right Spring Washers

When selecting spring washers from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these important factors:

Material Grade: Choose A2 304 stainless steel for general indoor and outdoor applications with good corrosion resistance. Select A4 316 stainless steel for marine environments, coastal locations, or exposure to chemicals and chlorides. Zinc-plated options offer economical protection for dry or indoor applications.

Size and Compatibility: Ensure the internal diameter matches your bolt size and the outer diameter fits within your assembly clearances. Spring washers should fit snugly over the bolt shaft without excessive play.

Load Requirements: Consider the mechanical loads and vibration levels in your application. Spring washers are ideal for moderate vibration environments but may require additional locking methods for extreme conditions.

Environmental Conditions: Match the washer material to the installation environment, accounting for moisture, temperature variations, and potential chemical exposure to ensure long-term performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between A2 and A4 stainless steel spring washers?
A2 304 stainless steel offers excellent general corrosion resistance suitable for most applications, whilst A4 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum for superior resistance to marine environments, chlorides, and aggressive chemicals. A4 is the preferred choice for coastal and marine installations.

Can spring washers be reused?
Spring washers should generally not be reused as they lose tension and spring characteristics after initial compression. Always use new spring washers when reassembling joints to maintain proper locking performance and safety.

Do I need spring washers with self-locking nuts?
Self-locking nuts (nyloc nuts) typically don't require spring washers as they incorporate their own locking mechanism. However, in high-vibration applications, combining both can provide additional security depending on the specific requirements of your assembly.