How To Use A Lock Washer

One of these specialty items is a lock washer, and you’ve likely used it without even knowing its purpose. While you may have heard the somewhat self-explanatory term tossed around in the DIY world, you might not fully understand what a lock washer is and how to properly use it.

Lock Washer vs. Standard Washer

A standard washer is simply designed to spread the load of the fastener against the material that’s being fastened. While there are various types and sizes of “standard” washers, this is generally the purpose of all of them. However, some specialty applications require a washer that does more than simply spread the load of the fastener, calling for one that will actively hold the fastener in place. This is when a lock washer is necessary.

How Does a Lock Washer Work?

Fasteners loosen for two reasons: spontaneous self-loosening and something called slackening. Spontaneous self-loosening AKA rotational loosening happens when a fastener experiences stress from dynamic use. Slackening occurs when the material beneath the fastener settles once the fastener has been tightened. Certain materials, especially softer ones, are prone to excessive settlement. The settlement of these materials releases the preload of the fastener, causing it to loosen. While lock washers are commonly used throughout many different industries to hold together critical joints, they’re not as common around the home. Here are a few everyday items that might call for a lock washer over a standard washer due to either spontaneous loosening as a result of dynamic use or slackening as a result of the material:

Automotive componentsHousehold appliancesFurniture piecesHVAC unitsSoft materials

Types of Lock Washers and When to Use Them

Listed below are common lock washer types and the applications in which each would be most useful. Split lock washer: Split lock washers are washers that have been split, resulting in two opposed edges. These sharp edges slightly dig into each side of the joint and create friction between the bolt and the bolted material, which helps to hold the bolt in place. This type of washer is most useful in applications that require a lightly torqued bolt driven into relatively soft material, such as soft metal, wood, or plastic. If the bolt is powerfully torqued, the split ring is flattened and compromised as a result. High collar lock washer: A high collar is similar to a split washer but much thicker and springier. These washers can be used in a similar way, but handle a significantly higher torque load. External serrated washer: External serrated washers look similar to a standard washer, but feature teeth along the edge. The serrated edge creates friction by digging into the materials. These are commonly used for appliances, HVAC units, and various electrical connections. Internal serrated washer: Internal serrated washers work similarly to external serrated washers, only the teeth are on the inside rather than the outside. This makes them suitable for smaller head bolts or instances when the teeth should be hidden. Belleville washer: A Belleville washer, otherwise known as a conical spring washer, is a conically shaped washer without splits or serrations. The conical shape makes the washer springy once a load is applied, which protects the bolt’s preload and prevents bolt creep. The lack of splits or serration is beneficial in applications in which the material’s surface could get damaged. Conical washers can be stacked to increase their spring effect and handle higher loads.