Washers
Stock up on Washers, Spring Washers, and Crush Washers at Repco
The humble washer is more than just a round piece of metal with a hole in it. Available in a multitude of sizes and materials and specific to particular jobs, Repco has the right washer for you. Whether you need a quality spring washer, a durable crush washer or just an assortment of flat washers we have all these and more at your local Repco store. Carrying the full range of Champion Fasteners as well as washers from Partswise and GJ Works makes Repco your one stop shop for washers.
Understanding Washers, Spring Washers, and Crush Washers
Washers are small, flat components commonly used in conjunction with bolts, screws, and nuts to distribute load, prevent damage to surfaces, and reduce the risk of loosening. While they may seem like simple hardware, their functionality is critical in a wide range of applications. Among the various types of washers, spring washers and crush washers stand out for their unique purposes and designs.
Flat Washers: The Basics
Flat washers, often referred to simply as washers, are the most common type. They are typically circular with a central hole to accommodate a fastener. Their primary role is to distribute the load of a fastener evenly across a surface, reducing the chances of damage or deformation. Flat washers also help prevent fasteners from loosening by providing a stable base. They are available in various materials, such as stainless steel, brass, and nylon, to suit different environments and requirements.
Spring Washers: Adding Tension
Spring washers, also known as lock washers, are designed to prevent fasteners from loosening due to vibrations or dynamic loads. Unlike flat washers, they have a split or coiled design, which creates tension when compressed. This tension helps maintain the tightness of the fastener, making spring washers ideal for applications where movement or vibration is a concern, such as in automotive or machinery settings. It is important to select the correct type of spring washer for the specific application, as their effectiveness depends on proper sizing and material selection.
Crush Washers: Ensuring a Tight Seal
Crush washers are specialised washers designed to create a secure seal between two surfaces. They are commonly used in automotive and plumbing applications, particularly in situations where fluids or gases need to be contained. Made from soft, malleable materials like copper or aluminium, crush washers deform slightly when tightened, filling any gaps to create a leak-proof seal. They are often employed in oil drain plugs, brake line fittings, and other critical sealing points. It is essential to replace crush washers after each use, as their deformation makes them unsuitable for reuse.
Choosing the Right Washer
When selecting a washer, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements of the application, including load distribution, vibration resistance, and sealing needs. Each type of washer serves a distinct purpose, and using the correct one can significantly enhance the performance and longevity of the fastener assembly. By understanding the differences between flat washers, spring washers, and crush washers, users can make informed decisions and ensure reliable results in their projects.
Repco are your home of quality fasteners and fixings
Never get caught short on all your workshop consumables when Repco supply everything you need. Whether a new pack of split pins, through to clips, nuts & bolts or new rubber grommets your local Repco store has them all.