Are Spring Washers Necessary?

Yes, spring washers are necessary in many fastening applications because they maintain tension, resist loosening, and enhance joint reliability, especially in dynamic or high-vibration environments.

Though they may look basic, spring washers are essential components in many mechanical setups.

From automotive engines to industrial equipment, these small components provide essential resistance against bolt loosening. 

Understanding what a spring washer is, how it works, and where it’s most effective helps you determine whether it’s required in your specific project.

What is a Spring Washer?

A spring washer is a mechanical fastener designed to apply a continuous force or tension when compressed. 

Unlike flat washers, which primarily spread load, spring washers offer elasticity. 

They help maintain secure fastening by counteracting loosening from vibrations, temperature shifts, or shifting loads.

So, what are spring washers used for? In simple terms, they help ensure that the nut or bolt remains securely in place even when subjected to constant movement or stress. 

Whether you’re working with electronics, engines, or heavy equipment, the added tension of a spring washer can be the difference between stability and mechanical failure.

Why Use Spring Washers?

The main reason to use spring washers is to prevent fasteners from coming loose over time. Here’s why they are often included in assemblies:

• Vibration resistance: Machinery or vehicles in motion can cause fasteners to loosen. Spring washers absorb some of the shock.
  
• Compensation for expansion/contraction: Temperature fluctuations can lead to the expansion or contraction of metal components. Spring washers accommodate this movement.
  
• Maintained preload: They help keep tension on the bolt even if the material underneath compresses slightly.
  

So, when asking, why use spring washers? It’s primarily to preserve fastening integrity in challenging conditions.

4 Spring Washer Types

There are several spring washer types, each suited for different uses:

Split Lock Washers (Helical)

These are the most common and look like a ring with a gap. Their twisted shape applies spring tension when compressed.

Wave Spring Washers

Characterized by their curved shape, these provide balanced deflection and moderate pressure.

They’re ideal when space is limited and a more even load distribution is needed.

Toothed Lock Washers

Also called serrated washers, they have teeth or ridges that dig into the surface of the material to prevent slippage.

Conical (Belleville) Washers

Shaped like a cone, these washers offer high load capacity in a small space and are stackable for greater load handling.

Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the best washer lock spring for your application.

How to Use Spring Washers

Knowing how to use spring washers ensures you get the full benefits. Typically, the spring washer is positioned between the fastener—either a nut or bolt—and the surface it’s securing.

This positioning allows it to compress as the bolt is tightened, exerting a constant force against the nut to keep it in place.

When should you use a spring washer? Consider it in situations where:

• The joint may experience vibration
• The surface material may compress over time
• You’re working with dynamic or moving components
  

Just remember that not all joints require a spring washer, especially if the fasteners already have locking features or if preload isn’t critical.

Do Spring Washers Work?

Yes, spring washers do work, but their effectiveness depends on proper application. 

When matched with the right bolt size and torque, they create enough friction to reduce the chances of unintentional loosening. 

However, in high-vibration environments like aerospace or heavy automotive applications, they may need to be combined with additional locking mechanisms for best results.

That said, not all spring washers are created equal. Low-quality materials, incorrect installation, or using them in non-dynamic applications can limit their performance.

What Are Spring Washers For?

To put it simply, what are spring washers for? They’re designed to maintain tension and prevent fastener loosening. They’re particularly useful:

• In engines, where thermal expansion is constant
  
• In rail or marine applications exposed to constant vibration
  
• In electronic assemblies requiring compact load-bearing parts
  

They’re not mandatory for every use, but they are essential where joint integrity could be compromised by movement, vibration, or material settling.

How to Remove Spring Washers

If you’re wondering how to remove spring washers, the good news is that the process is straightforward. 

Simply unscrew the bolt or nut as usual. In some cases, especially if rust or deformation is present, you may need pliers to pry the washer off. 

Always check whether the washer has deformed; if so, replace it before reassembly.

Are Spring Washers Reusable?

Technically, yes, but it depends on the washer’s condition. 

Spring washers are reusable only if they haven’t lost their tension or suffered from fatigue, cracking, or permanent deformation. 

If the washer appears flat, rusted, or damaged, it’s better to replace it. Reusing compromised washers can result in failure of the fastening system.

Do You Always Need a Spring Washer?

No, you don’t always need a spring washer, but they’re essential in the right conditions. 

For example, in static assemblies with no vibration, a flat washer might be enough. 

In contrast, dynamic environments like engines, pumps, or conveyors almost always benefit from spring washers.

Alternatives to Spring Washers

While spring washers are highly versatile, some applications may benefit from alternatives such as:

• Thread-locking compounds (e.g., Loctite)
• Nylon insert lock nuts
• Prevailing torque nuts
• Serrated flange bolts
  

These alternatives can sometimes outperform spring washers, depending on the design requirements and environmental conditions.

Wave Spring Washers: A Closer Look

The wave spring washer deserves special mention. 

Unlike split washers that apply force in a single direction, wave washers provide multi-point, distributed pressure. 

This makes them ideal for thin materials or when deflection control is key.

Because of their shape, wave spring washers compress under load while maintaining a constant spring rate. 

They’re frequently used in electronics, small motors, and tight-space applications.

Washer Lock Spring Configurations

If you’re using a washer lock spring in a stacked or layered assembly, make sure to pair it correctly with other washers. 

One common question is about the placement: “Should the flat washer go before or after the lock washer?”

The general answer is: if you’re using both, the flat washer should go against the material surface, and the lock washer should go between the flat washer and the nut or bolt head. 

This setup ensures the spring washer grips the fastener while the flat washer protects the surface.

Conclusion: Are Spring Washers Necessary?

To recap, spring washers are necessary in many, but not all, applications. 

If your project involves motion, heat, or vibration, a spring washer provides the needed support to keep fasteners tight and prevent damage or failure. 

Understanding the different spring washer types, knowing how to use spring washers, and evaluating your assembly’s needs are key to making the right choice.

While alternatives exist, the simplicity and effectiveness of spring washers continue to make them a trusted solution in countless industries.