Exploring the Diversity of Aircraft Washers:Types and Applications

An unsung hero in aviation maintenance is the aircraft washer, these small yet essential components coming in various types that are each designed for specific purposes. While useful in a number of industries, washers of various types are pivotal for the standard operations of aircraft. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of aircraft washers, discussing the most common types and their applications in aviation maintenance.

Plain Washers

Plain washers, also known as flat washers, are the most basic and commonly used type in aircraft maintenance. They have a simple, flat, and circular design with a central hole, and they serve several critical functions in aircraft assemblies. Firstly, they distribute the loads of fasteners evenly across a surface, preventing damage to the installation material. Secondly, plain washers act as a spacer, helping to maintain proper distance between parts. Lastly, they can be used to reduce friction and provide a smooth surface for a fastener to rotate against.

Split Lock Washers

Split lock washers are designed to provide additional security to fasteners, especially in applications where vibration and loosening are concerned. These washers have a split cut, creating a spring-like effect when compressed, and this tension helps prevent the nut or bolt from backing out due to vibrations or other external forces. In the aviation industry, split lock washers find their niche in critical areas such as engine mounts and landing gear, offering invaluable added assurance in these high-stress environments. Ensuring that fasteners remain securely in place is a top priority in aviation maintenance, and split lock washers are a key component in achieving that goal.

Wave Washers

Wave washers, also known as wave springs, have a distinctive waveform shape. Their unique design allows them to provide a high load with a small deflection, making them ideal for applications requiring both spring force and axial space-saving. Wave washers are commonly used in aircraft landing gear assemblies to absorb shock and maintain the desired preload on wheel bearings.

Belleville Washers

Belleville washers, also known as disc springs, are characterized by their conical shape, these washers being designed to provide a high spring load in a very limited space. In the aviation industry, Belleville washers are frequently employed in situations where there is a need to maintain constant tension or compression force, such as in aircraft hydraulic systems or actuator assemblies.

Toothed Lock Washers

Toothed lock washers, as the name suggests, have teeth or serrations on one side. These serrations bite into the surface of the material and the fastener, creating a locking effect that prevents the nut or bolt from coming loose due to vibrations or other external forces. In aircraft applications, toothed lock washers are commonly used when it is essential to prevent the loosening of fasteners, where a split lock washer may otherwise not be suitable due to its larger profile.

Conclusion

While aircraft washers may be small and unassuming components, they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of an aircraft. From the simplicity of plain washers to the specialized designs of split lock, wave, Belleville, and toothed lock washers, each type serves a specific purpose in aviation maintenance. When you are in search of in-demand aircraft washers and other similar items that trace back to reputable manufacturers that you can trust, look no further than Surge Purchasing. As an AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accredited company, we consistently surpass industry expectations to deliver the best products and services for our customers. With this in mind, get in touch with one of our industry experts today, and see how we can serve you as your strategic sourcing partner for all your project requirements.