Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Basics of Bevel Washers

Structural components come in all shapes and sizes. They also support the live weight and dead weight of many different things. But throughout the entire structure there is one constant – strong fasteners holding it all together. How can those fasteners be adapted for a tight and dependable fit with so many irregularities? Special designs like bevel washers bring it together.

What Are Bevel Washers?

Washers are used for many purposes. They can act as a spacer between the nut and the fastened surface. Some work as a spring (such as a wave washer), but all are used to distribute the load of a fastener and act as a pad against wear.

Bevel washers do even more than that.

When the structural component being fastened is uneven or not parallel, the nut cannot be tightened fully and the fastener combination will be weak. Bring in the bevel washer to provide the solution and make the connection complete.

Bevel washers have one flat side. This is for connection with the nut and is protection against the wear this component provides. The opposite side of the washer is sloped to accommodate for the unparallel surface of the structural component. What this does is make a snug fit with both the flat and the sloped components coming together, forming a solid and tight fit overall.

Materials and Treatments Available

Bevel washers are available in many different materials to match your fastener and nut. Stainless steel 18-8 is a common type, offering the strength and corrosion resistance of that material.

Look for bevel washers that have been passivated for a cleaner, stronger finish. Zinc plated and even hot dipped galvanized bevel washers are also available.

Applicable Industries

Sloped structural components are found in a variety of industries from industrial and residential buildings to mining equipment, railroad and alternative energy. Bevel washers are commonly found in those industries. Water treatment and pumps also call for bevel washers to make sure the structures and systems are tightly formed for function and safety.

Steel fabrication, the manufacturing of boats, docks and other marine elements and the military all require this specially made washer for stability and strength. A smart solution to a common problem, bevel washers are in high demand and for good reason.

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