Match the washer's inner diameter to the fastener diameter and thread system. Check outer diameter and thickness against the required bearing area.
Spread Fastener Load and Protect Joint Surfaces
Washers sit beneath compatible bolt heads, screws or nuts to distribute load, protect surfaces or support a specified locking arrangement. MacBlair groups this range within nuts, bolts and threaded fixings, making it easier to match the product to the wider task. Choose inner diameter, outer diameter, thickness, material, hardness and finish for the fastener and joint. A washer must pass over the thread without excessive clearance and provide the bearing area required by the design.
Check whether the connection calls for a plain, large-diameter or locking washer, and place it on the specified side of the joint. Keep surfaces flat and free from burrs. For the next stage, matching threaded nuts can support a related part of the job. Tighten the fastener evenly so the washer remains centred and does not dish, split or bite into a surface beyond what the design expects.
Washers should be used with the material, load and working conditions in mind. A washer cannot compensate for an oversized hole, weak base material or incorrect bolt grade. Do not stack miscellaneous washers to adjust length in structural or safety-critical work unless the design permits it. engineering bolts may also be useful where the task extends beyond this category.
Store types and sizes separately, keep surfaces free from corrosion and discard bent, cracked or heavily scored items. Check ratings, fixings, working parts or material condition before reuse, and remove damaged items from service. sockets and spanners helps complete the surrounding work without substituting one product for another. Inspect after tightening to confirm the washer is fully seated and not bridging an edge, slot or uneven surface.
Washers FAQs
It spreads load over a wider area where the material and joint design require it. It is not a repair for a damaged or oversized hole without approval.
Follow the connection detail. Washers may be required beneath the nut, bolt head or both depending on surface, rotation and load.
Avoid unplanned stacks, which can alter grip length and joint behaviour. Use the correct spacer or fastener length specified by the design.
Plain washers may be reusable if undamaged and the specification permits it. Replace distorted, corroded or locking washers whose performance depends on one-time deformation.