Among the myriad of parts used in aircraft assembly, washers hold a significant position. While they might seem like inconsequential components, they serve to distribute loads, prevent the loosening of fasteners, and protect surfaces from damage due to friction or corrosion. In this blog, we will discuss some of the various types of washers that are utilized in aircraft construction, helping you have a better understanding of their integral role and applications.
Essentially, a washer is a thin plate with a hole in the center, often being made of metal, plastic, or rubber. Its primary purpose is to distribute the load of a threaded fastener, such as a bolt or a nut, over a larger area to prevent damage to the surface being fastened or to provide a smooth bearing surface. In aircraft construction, the choice of washers is critical.
While they may be the same variants as those used in other assemblies, washers utilized in aircraft must undergo rigorous testing and inspection processes to ensure they meet the exacting quality and performance standards demanded by the aerospace industry. Additionally, aircraft washers are typically made from high-strength materials such as titanium, stainless steel, or nickel alloys to withstand the extreme conditions encountered during flight. In the highly regulated and safety-critical aviation industry, the choice of washers is not taken lightly, with aircraft washers manufactured to the highest standards to meet the unique demands of flight.
As far as particular types go, one of the most common variants is the plain washer. As the name suggests, these washers are simple, flat rings with a central hole, and they are used to evenly distribute the load of a fastener and provide a smooth surface for the nut or bolt head to bear against. They come in various materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and nylon, depending on specific application requirements.
Lock washers are another essential type which feature a design that creates a locking effect to prevent the loosening of fasteners, typically coming in the form of teeth, grooves, or a split ring that bites into the surface of the fastener and the mating material when tightened. This helps maintain the integrity of the assembly under the extreme conditions experienced during flight, such as vibration or torque.
Another type of special washer commonly employed in aircraft construction is the fender washer. Fender washers have a larger outer diameter compared to standard washers, providing an increased bearing surface and load distribution. They are often used in applications where the fastener is subjected to heavy loads or where a larger surface area is required to prevent deformation of the mating material.
Besides common types of washers, aircraft assembly often requires the use of special washers tailored to specific needs. One of these types are Belleville washers, which are conical spring washers with a convex outer surface and a concave inner surface. Functionally, Belleville washers act as springs, applying a load or maintaining tension by deflecting axially in response to the applied force. This helps to compensate for variations in load, thermal expansion, or contraction, thereby ensuring a consistent clamping force and preventing fasteners from loosening. Their high spring rate and a large deflection range make them particularly suitable for applications where precise tension control and resistance to fatigue are required.
In conclusion, washers are small yet indispensable components in aircraft construction, playing a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity, reliability, and safety of aircraft. From plain washers to more specialized washers, each type serves a specific function in distributing loads, preventing loosening of fasteners, and protecting surfaces from damage. If you are seeking washers or other components for your aircraft operations, we invite you to explore ASAP Military Aviation at your leisure. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, this website boasts over 2 billion diverse products that are up-to-par with rigorous applications and sourced from reputable manufacturers, so you can find parts suitable for any requirement. Upon finding anything of interest, do not hesitate to utilize our online RFQ service to instantly receive quotes for your comparisons from our industry experts. See why countless customers utilize ASAP Military Aviation as a preferred source for components when you get in touch with us by form, phone, or email today.
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