A washer is a circular shaped object with a hole in the center that is used with bolts, nuts and screws to provide a smooth bearing surface between a bolt or screw’s head and the surface underneath. They also distribute the fastener load over a wider surface area. The washer strengthens the holding power of the bolt by evenly distributing the pressure from the bolt head.

There are many different types of washers for different applications. For example, a flat washer has a perfectly flat surface, while other washers have raised or rounded surfaces. In general, you should always use a washer any time that you install a bolt.

Washers are used in everything from automotive to construction. Anyplace you find a bolt, there is likely to be a matching washer. A small but vital part, washers play a role in our everyday life without ever really being seen. Washers are the unsung hero of the fastener world, doing their duty while never receiving any notice or recognition. You would be hard pressed to find any piece of equipment in the modern world that didn’t use washers.

Titanium washers have some amazing benefits. First, 6Al-4V titanium washers have a yield strength that is three and a half greater than stainless steel washers. This means that for a given washer thickness, more of the load will be evenly distributed compared to a common stainless steel washer. Second, titanium is really springy, which means when the bolt is tightened, the washer keeps a constant load on the bolt through shock loads and loads that continually pull and release. Finally, titanium washers are corrosion free in the natural environment meaning the washer won't rust out or crevice corrode causing the bolt to come loose.