Metric, Washers

Metric washers are important fastener components that are used to provide structural support to bolted connections and ensure their stability. These washers share loads equally, minimize friction, and keep fasteners from loosening because of vibrations. Metric washers are available in a variety of materials and sizes and are widely utilized in industries such as automotive, construction, electronics, and manufacturing. Understanding these types, materials, and applications of metric washers will help you to make an informed purchase from reputable stores online. 

Types of Metric Washers

Metric washers are available in a variety of styles, each made for a specific need. Here are the types of metric washers at Canada Bolts: 

• Metric flat washers: They are the most widely used washers. Metric flat washers are thin and flat discs that are used to evenly distribute the load of a fastener, like a bolt or nut. They are used to protect surfaces from damage and maintain even pressure distribution.

• Lock Washers: Lock washers keep fasteners from rotating and loosening over time. They are perfect for applications where there is motion or vibrations.

• Fender Washers: Fender washers have a greater outside diameter than typical flat washers. It provides an additional surface area to spread the weight.

• Lock Washer with Internal Tooth: The inner edge in a lock washer has teeth that grasp the bolt or screw used for limiting rotation and guaranteeing a tight fit in applications with limited external clearance.

• Lock Washer with External Tooth: The exterior edge in a lock washer has teeth that are used to grip the assembly's surface and offer excellent resistance to loosening in high-vibration settings.

• Rib Lock Washer: A washer with ribs on the surface is used to resist rotation and improve grip. They are used in assemblies that require extra security under heavy loads.

• Wave Washer: A flexible washer with a wave-like form gives light spring pressure by making it excellent for shock absorption and tension maintenance in small assemblies.

Materials for Metric Washers

The material of a washer is used to improve its longevity, corrosion resistance, and applicability for various applications. Here are common materials used in metric washers:

• Stainless Steel Metric Washers: Stainless steel metric washers are known for their superior corrosion resistance and strength. They are perfect for outdoor and marine applications. They are extremely durable and provide a clean, polished appearance.

• Brass Washers: Brass washers are perfect for industries that require minimal friction and good thermal conductivity. 

• Carbon Steel Washers: Carbon steel washers are durable and cost-effective and are perfect for heavy-duty applications. However, they can need a coating to prevent corrosion.

• Plastic Washers: Plastic washers are lightweight and nonconductive and are perfect for electrical applications and in areas where corrosion is most likely to occur.

Different Metric Washer Sizes

Metric washers are available in a variety of sizes to match metric bolts and nuts. When you are choosing the right size, you should consider the following dimensions:

• Inner Diameter (ID): This is the size of the hole from which the bolt or screw will pass.

• Outer Diameter (OD): This is the overall diameter of the washer, which allows load distribution.

• Thickness: It specifies the washer's strength and suitability for load-bearing applications.

Metric washers are of M2 (2mm inner diameter) to M36 (36mm inner diameter) sizes. You have to select the right size to match your metric fastener washers for the best results.

Applications for Metric Fastener Washers

Metric washers are important for various types of industries: 

• Automotive: In the automotive industry, metric washers are used to give solid and strong connections, particularly in engine and chassis systems.

• Construction: Metric washers in building projects are used to protect materials like wood and metal from fastener pressure.

• Electronics: Metric washers are used to protect fasteners and prevent electrical conductivity in sensitive electronic components.

• Machinery: Washers in industrial machinery will prevent surface wear and tighten fasteners.

How to Select the Right Metric Washer

To select the appropriate washer for your application, you should follow these guidelines: 

• Material Requirements: You should select materials like stainless steel for corrosion resistance in outdoor or maritime applications, or plastic for non-conductive situations.

• Washer Type: Choose a suitable type of metric washer like a flat washer for load distribution or a lock washer for vibration resistance.

• Size Compatibility: Check the washer's inner and outer diameters, and thickness, to match with the measurements of your fasteners.

• Application Environment: When you are selecting the right washer for your needs, you should consider temperature, moisture, and vibration exposure.

• Load Requirements: If you are using metric washers for heavier-duty applications, use stronger washers such as carbon steel or rib lock washers.

Benefits of Metric Fasteners Washers

Metric washers have various benefits: 

• Distribute Loads: Metric washers can evenly distribute fastener loads and also reduce stress on connected surfaces.

• Surface Protection: They can protect surfaces by forming a barrier between the fastener and the material.

• Corrosion Resistance: You can use stainless steel metric washers because they are highly resistant to rust and are perfect for tough settings.

• Vibration Resistance: You can use lock and spring washers to tighten fasteners and prevent them from loosening for high-vibration situations.

• Wide Compatibility: Metric washers are available in a variety of sizes and types, so they are compatible with a wide range of fasteners used in a variety of industries.

• Increased Durability: They are made from high-quality materials that improve the longevity of fastener assemblies, even under high loads.

• Ease of Use: Metric washers are easy to install and provide dependable performance in industrial and residential operations.

Where Can I Buy Metric Washers Online?

Many online platforms sell a wide range of metric washers, including stainless steel metric washers and specialty washers for industrial applications. You have to find reputable providers who offer detailed descriptions about washers and a range of metric washer sizes to meet your requirements.

Shopping for washers online will allow you to compare them, read consumer reviews, and check different prices by ensuring that you buy metric washers online that match your projects. Finding high-quality metric washers online is critical for dependable and long-lasting fastener assemblies. Here are a few reputable platforms:

Canada Bolts

Canada Bolts is a reputable platform that sells a wide range of metric washers, including stainless steel and metric flat washers. They give detailed product descriptions to know which is perfect for you and at reasonable prices for both industrial and DIY tasks.

Fastenal

Fastenal specializes in industrial and construction supplies, providing a wide selection of metric washers, including stainless steel and other varieties. Their inventory includes detailed descriptions to choose the appropriate washer for your purpose.

Grainger

Grainger is a reliable industrial supplier that offers bulk purchase options for metric washers, which are suitable for large-scale applications.

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is known for its large collection and sells metric fastener washers in a variety of materials and sizes, with quick shipping choices.