![]() The problem is that split washers make for poor springs and bottom out after only a small percentage (on order of 10%) of a bolt’s total clamping load. In practice a split washer is unable to gain any purchase against hard surfaces and does not actually prevent rotation. ![]() At this point the sharp edges of the washer are supposed to dig into the nut and mounting surface to prevent counter-clockwise rotation. In theory split washers (aka lock washers or helical spring washers) are supposed to work by squishing flat between the nut and the mounting surface when you tighten them. And yet I see these things in use everywhere, so what gives? Split washers have been experimentally proven to be ineffective locking devices and can even aid self loosening over time. When faced with contradictory test results, if we assume the methodology and integrity of all sources are without fault, it is reasonable to conclude that your results may vary. Many factors could significantly affect testing results including variances from manufacturing process, fastener & clamped materials, heat treating, surface finishes, ambient conditions, and bolt diameter.ġ. In the interest of transparency and good scientific discussion, I’ve provided links to all sources mentioned at the end of point #1. UPDATED MARCH 2017: It has come to my attention that there is testing data available that makes the counter argument to my first point in this article. What follows are 10 tricks on this ‘basic’ subject that might surprise you! ![]() You’d expect an engineer to know everything about a basic subject like nuts and bolts right? Well fasteners are one of those topics that seem simple at first but turn out to have much more depth than you expected.
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