Metal Washers: Types, Uses, Features and Benefits

By A Mystery Man Writer

Last updated 17 Jul 2024

Metal Washers: Types, Uses, Features and Benefits

Multi-chapter guide to Metal Washers describing: what metal washers consist of, types of metal washers, how they are made, custom designs, and uses.
A metal washer is a small flat piece of metal that has a hole in the center and is used as a spacer, a method for absorbing shock, or distributing the load of a fastener. The hole in the middle of a metal washer allows for a bolt or screw to pass through. There are several methods used to produce metal washers, each of which is designed to produce them with a sufficient amount of strength and stress resistance. The manufacture of metal washers includes many different types of materials, with galvanized carbon steel and stainless steel being the most common. The variations in the metals used to produce metal washers and their many shapes have created a wide assortment of washer types, with plain, spring, and lock being the standard types. Under the three commonly used metal washers are several specialty washers designed to meet the needs of specific applications. There are endless uses for metal washers with specialty ones being manufactured for unique and unusual applications. Metal washers are designed to distribute the load of a fastener such as a screw, bolt, nut, or another form of connecting fastener that securely fits. Washers make it easier to loosen or remove a nut from a bolt and easily resecure it. There are many types of washers for home use as well as those that are produced for industrial applications.