Flat washers are key parts used in many industries to spread out pressure and keep everything secure. Choosing the right size is crucial for performance. This guide will walk you through different washer sizes, helping you balance factors like load distribution and material strength, and make informed decisions for your needs.
Commercial Flat Washers
| Bolt Size In. | Outside Diameter In. | Inside I.D. In. | Thickness | Approx. Lbs per 100 Pcs. | Approx. No./Pcs. 50 Lbs. | Approx. No./Pcs. Per Lb. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3/16 | 9/16 | 1/4 | .036/.065 | 0.28 | 18,050 | 361 |
| 1/4 | 3/4 | 5/16 | .051/.080 | 0.67 | 7,450 | 149 |
| 5/16 | 7/8 | 3/8 | .064/.104 | 1.11 | 4,350 | 87 |
| 3/8 | 1 | 7/16 | .064/.104 | 1.49 | 3,350 | 67 |
| 7/16 | 1 1/4 | 1/2 | .064/.104 | 2.44 | 2,050 | 41 |
| 1/2 | 1 3/8 | 9/16 | .086/.132 | 3.85 | 1,300 | 26 |
| 9/16 | 1 15/32 | 5/8 | .086/.132 | 4.55 | 1,100 | 22 |
| 5/8 | 1 3/4 | 11/16 | .108/.160 | 7.70 | 650 | 13 |
| 3/4 | 2 | 13/16 | .122/.177 | 11.00 | 455 | 9.1 |
| 7/8 | 2 1/4 | 15/16 | .136/.192 | 15.30 | 325 | 6.5 |
| 1 | 2 1/2 | 1 1/16 | .136/.192 | 18.80 | 265 | 5.3 |
| 1 1/4 | 3 | 1 3/8 | .136/.192 | 22.00 | 225 | 4.5 |
| 1 3/8 | 3 1/4 | 1 1/2 | .153/.213 | 33.30 | 150 | 3 |
| 1 1/2 | 3 1/2 | 1 5/8 | .153/.213 | 38.40 | 130 | 2.6 |
| 1 5/8 | 3 3/4 | 1 3/4 | .153/.213 | 44.80 | 115 | 2.3 |
| 1 3/4 | 4 | 1 7/8 | .153/.213 | 50.00 | 100 | 2 |
| 1 7/8 | 4 1/4 | 2 | .153/.213 | 56.90 | 90 | 1.8 |
| 2 | 4 1/2 | 2 1/8 | .153/.213 | 63.00 | 79 | 1.6 |
| 2 1/4 | 4 3/4 | 2 3/8 | .193/.248 | 82.60 | 60 | 1.2 |
| 2 1/2 | 5 | 2 5/8 | .210/.280 | 96.10 | 52 | 1 |
| 2 3/4 | 5 1/4 | 2 7/8 | .228/.310 | 110.00 | 45 | 0.9 |
| 3 | 5 1/2 | 3 1/8 | .249/.327 | 130.00 | 43 | 0.8 |
Importance of Flat Washer Sizes
The size of a flat washer plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability and effectiveness of a fastening assembly. Therefore, choosing the right size is essential for your specific application. Balancing factors such as load distribution and surface protection can be challenging.
For instance, a washer that’s too small might not distribute pressure evenly, leading to potential damage. On the other hand, an oversized washer could affect the alignment and fit of the fastener. Thus, carefully considering these trade-offs and their impact helps you make the best decision for your project.
Materials and Their Impact on Washer Size
The material of a flat washer significantly impacts its performance and suitability for various applications. Common materials include steel, stainless steel, and brass, each offering unique benefits and trade-offs.
Steel Washers
Steel washers are renowned for their strength and durability, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. However, while they provide excellent load support, they can be prone to rust and corrosion if exposed to moisture. This trade-off between strength and susceptibility to corrosion is crucial when selecting the right washer for your project. The size chart for steel washers is detailed below.
Stainless Steel Washers
Stainless steel washers are designed to resist corrosion, making them perfect for outdoor or marine environments. Although they offer superior longevity and resistance, they may come at a higher cost compared to other materials. Balancing cost and durability is essential when choosing stainless steel washers. Here’s the size chart for stainless steel washers.
Brass Washers
Brass washers are valued for their good conductivity and resistance to corrosion, often used in electrical and plumbing applications. However, they may not be as strong as steel washers and can be more expensive. Understanding these trade-offs helps you select the appropriate washer for specific needs. Check the size chart for brass washers below.
How to Measure Flat Washers
Accurate measurement of flat washers is essential for ensuring a proper fit and optimal function. To measure washers effectively, start by determining the diameter, thickness, and other key dimensions. Firstly, measure the outer diameter to ensure it matches your application’s requirements. Next, check the thickness, as this affects the washer’s load distribution and overall performance. Additionally, measure the inner diameter to confirm it fits the bolt or screw properly.
Balancing these factors can be challenging. For example, a washer with incorrect thickness may not distribute pressure evenly, potentially leading to instability. Conversely, an oversized washer might interfere with the assembly. Thus, carefully measuring and considering these dimensions ensures the right choice for your needs and improves the performance of your fastening assembly.
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of using flat washers in commercial applications?
Flat washers are used to distribute the load of a fastener over a larger surface area, reducing the risk of damage to the material being fastened. They help improve the stability and evenness of the assembly by providing a smooth, supportive surface that helps prevent loosening and shifting of the fastener.
2. How do I choose the right size flat washer for my project?
To select the correct size flat washer, first measure the diameter and thickness of the washer to match your application requirements. Consider the size of the bolt or screw and ensure the washer’s inner diameter fits properly. Additionally, evaluate the material of the washer to ensure it meets the needs of your environment and application, such as resistance to corrosion or load-bearing capacity.
3. What are the differences between steel, stainless steel, and brass washers, and how do I decide which one to use?
Steel washers are strong and durable, suitable for heavy-duty applications but may rust if not properly protected. Stainless steel washers offer excellent corrosion resistance, making them ideal for outdoor or marine environments, though they may be more expensive. Brass washers are good for applications requiring conductivity and corrosion resistance but are less strong compared to steel. Choose the material based on the specific demands of your application, balancing factors such as strength, resistance to environmental conditions, and cost.