When to use plastic washers
Washers are indispensable. Not only do they distribute the pressure of the nut over the surface, but they also lessen the chances of the nut loosening. There are so many choices when it comes to washers. We’ve told you how and when to use washers effectively, but what about the material?
Chances are, you think of metal but it’s not your only choice. Depending on your application, plastic can give you the benefits of metal – and benefits that metal can’t offer – at a lower cost.
Industries
Manufacturers like plastic washers because they resist vibrations and don’t creak sparks. This makes for a safer work environment while keeping production humming along without the downtime that repairs require.
Nylon is popular with automotive manufacturers, as it’s lightweight compared to metal and helps lower fuel consumption. Nylon and other plastics, such as HDPE, withstand exposure to chemicals, acids, and other corrosive materials without degrading. For the reason, plastics are also found in material handling.
Plastic washers are also used in the construction sector in electrical applications due to their ability to stand up to high electrical volts. The fact that plastic washers are non-sparking and anti-magnetic also makes them popular in the electronics and consumer appliances industries.
Which material?
The qualities of plastic washers can vary. Here’s what you can expect from these commonly used materials.
Nylon
Strength, outstanding wear resistance and low-friction properties, making it an ideal washer for fasteners. Stands up to most harsh corrosive substances. Excellent as electrical and thermal insulators. Often used in high-load sections in electrical applications, such as switch housing.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE):
Flexible, stands up to low temperatures (60'C), and weatherproof. Compresses under pressure, creating a water-tight seal, even in harsh environmental conditions. Also stands up to acid and alkalis, making them great for sealing bulkhead fittings to fuel cells. Lots of variety with HDPE washers – uses range from food applications to oil tanks. Especially suitable for outdoors.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE):
Flexible, exceptional resistance to acids, alcohols, and bases and has very good
electrical properties. Possesses good impact strength and low-water absorption. Popular with building and construction, refrigerator components and winter sporting goods, due to low-temperature impacts. LDPE has better stress crack resistance than HDPE.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE):
Works well with most moving parts, making them suitable for bearings, gears and most sliding parts. Non conducting, making it idea for electrical insulators in circuit boards. Good chemical resistance and is often used in chemical laboratories as containers.
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. You can also request free samples to make sure you’ve chosen exactly what you need. If you’re not quite sure which solution will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.