The Role of Washers in Aviation

Though seemingly simple fasteners, washers are indispensable in the assembly and maintenance of diverse aircraft structures. With various types being engineered to meet specific needs, understanding their role in aircraft requires an understanding of their distinct design features and purposes. In this blog, we will delve into the most prevalent types of washers and the specialized materials used for aircraft construction, uncovering how they contribute to the demanding world of aviation.

Washers are mechanical components engineered to fulfill several functions across applications. Primarily, they are designed to distribute loads evenly, reducing localized pressure on joined parts and thereby minimizing the risk of deformation and wear on. Additionally, washers play a key role in reducing vibration and provide a sealing function to prevent leakage between surfaces. In the aviation industry, a diverse range of washers is employed to address specific operational requirements and challenges. Each type is selected based on its unique properties and intended function so that the demanding conditions of flight are effectively managed.

Flat washers are among the most common types, being simple, smooth, disc-shaped components. Their straightforward design makes them versatile and essential for many assembly applications, particularly where uniform pressure distribution is required. Meanwhile, lock washers are similar but with an added feature to further prevent fasteners from loosening due to vibrations or movement, which is essential during flight operations. Lock washers come in split, toothed, and serrated varieties, each offering a distinct locking mechanism. For instance, split lock washers have a split that digs into the fastener and material surfaces, creating friction and resistance to loosening. Meanwhile, toothed and serrated variants use sharp edges to grip and secure the connection, enhancing the integrity of the fastened joint.

Spring washers, also referred to as curved or helical washers, are created to provide a spring-like action that absorbs shocks and maintains constant tension in a joint. The inherent elasticity of spring washers allows them to accommodate changes in pressure and movement, which helps to maintain a secure connection over time. As such, this type is particularly useful in parts of an aircraft where components are subject to thermal expansion, vibrations, or fluctuating loads, compensating for these dynamic conditions to contribute to the overall stability and longevity of an assembly.

Shoulder washers are uniquely designed with a cylindrical body and a raised collar around the inner hole. This restricts a fastener from coming into direct contact with the material being fastened, which is vital for applications where precise alignment and separation are required, such as in mounting electronic components or securing delicate connections. Moreover, they also help to maintain the integrity of these connections by ensuring that the fastener exerts pressure only where it is intended.

Sealing washers are specifically designed to provide a reliable seal that prevents fluids or gasses from leaking out. Typically made from soft, compressible materials like rubber or neoprene, these washers form a tight seal when compressed between surfaces. They are especially critical in aviation systems handling fluids or pressurized gasses, such as hydraulic and fuel systems, preventing leaks that could lead to hazardous conditions or failures.

The materials used for washers in aviation are selected to withstand the demanding conditions of flight, the most popular materials being stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium. Stainless steel washers offer excellent corrosion resistance and strength, making them suitable for a wide range of uses. Aluminum washers are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for reducing weight and contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency. Finally, titanium washers are valued for their great strength and resistance to extreme temperatures.

The applications of washers in aircraft are diverse, all being crucial for the overall functionality of aircraft structures and systems. For instance, they serve to distribute loads and secure connections in critical areas such as wing attachments, fuselage joints, and landing gear assemblies, thereby contributing to optimal structural integrity. In avionics and electrical systems, washers are utilized to establish stable and reliable connections between electronic components. Shoulder washers, in particular, are used to maintain precise alignment and spacing of electrical connectors, which helps to facilitate reliable operation and prevent electrical shorts. Furthermore, in engine assemblies, washers secure various engine components and minimize excessive vibrations to preserve their integrity. Finally, hydraulic and fuel systems in aircraft rely on sealing washers to prevent leaks, ensuring that fluids and gasses remain contained within the system for safety and efficiency. Whether maintaining structural integrity, securing electrical connections, or preventing leaks, washers are a significant component in modern aviation.

Aviation 3Sixty is your one-stop source for top-notch washers and any other fasteners you require for operations. We invite you to browse our website at your leisure, which features a variety of catalogs that conveniently organize over 2 billion part numbers that we have in stock. If you happen to know exactly what you are looking for, you can also utilize our search engine and filters to save time. Regardless of how you come across items of interest, you are always welcome to request a quote using our online RFQ forms, where within 15 minutes of our team reviewing a submission, we will reach out with procurement options that are tailored to your specified needs. You can also feel free to reach out to us by phone or email at any time, as we would be happy to answer any questions you may have or help you kick off procurement.