{"id":2436,"date":"2026-05-06T23:29:47","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T21:29:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/estampacionenfrio.com\/blog\/types-of-washers-and-their-functions-in-fastening-systems\/"},"modified":"2026-05-27T23:35:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-27T21:35:35","slug":"types-of-washers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/estampacionenfrio.com\/en\/blog\/types-of-washers\/","title":{"rendered":"Types of washers and their functions in fastening systems
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Loosening under vibration, deformation of the base material, corrosion between dissimilar metals or loss of sealing. These common failures in bolted joints originate from an apparently minor decision: which type of washer<\/strong> to place between the fastener and the surface. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In sectors such as automotive, aeronautics or industrial machinery, choosing the correct washer is a technical decision with direct consequences on the reliability of the assembly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below we explain the main types of washers, the function each one performs, the materials they are manufactured in and how they are produced by cold stamping.
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What is a washer and what is it used for<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A washer is a metallic (or polymeric) disc with a central hole placed between the head of the bolt (or nut) and the bearing surface. Its primary function is to distribute the clamping load over a larger area to prevent the fastener from damaging or deforming the base material. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Depending on its design, a washer can also prevent loosening under vibration, seal the joint against liquids or gases, electrically isolate two metals to prevent galvanic corrosion, or compensate for surfaces that are not perfectly parallel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Types of washers and when to use them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The most practical way to classify washers is by the problem they solve: vibration, load, sealing or insulation. This allows you to start from the technical requirement and arrive at the specific type.
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Load bearing and distribution washers
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The flat washer <\/strong>(DIN 125) is the most common type in industry. It is placed under the bolt head or nut to distribute clamping pressure and protect the surface. For soft materials or oversized holes, the wide\/Fender washe<\/strong>r (DIN 9021) is used, offering a larger contact surface. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Safety and locking washers
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Prevent the bolt or nut from rotating and loosening. Toothed washers <\/strong>(external or internal toothing) bite into the bearing surface when tightened. Tab washers lock <\/strong>by bending a tab against the bolt or nut. Circlips or Seeger rings<\/strong> sit in shaft grooves to prevent axial displacement of components such as bearings or gears. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Spring and pressure washers
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Designed to maintain joint tension in environments subject to vibration or thermal cycling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Grower washer<\/strong> (DIN 127) is a helical ring that generates friction when compressed, effective for moderate vibration. The Belleville washer <\/strong>(DIN 6796) is a conical disc that acts as a spring and compensates for thermal expansion. Wave washers <\/strong>dampen minor vibrations.
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Sealing and gasketing washers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Combine a metallic component with an elastomer to create a hermetic seal. EPDM washers<\/strong> (steel and vulcanised rubber) prevent water ingress in roofing, industrial facades and electrical enclosures. Copper or aluminium washers<\/strong> function as gaskets in hydraulic and pneumatic circuits. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Need help?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact our technical office<\/strong> and tell us about your project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We will study your case and propose a solution to manufacture them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Materials used for washer manufacturing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The washer material must be compatible with the fastening element and the working environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n