Structural and Indicating Washers

Structural and indicating washers are two different types of washers that are used when specific performance standards must be met. Structural washers are thicker than standard washers and are crafted to distribute loads and prevent damage under high-stress conditions in heavy-duty, structural applications. They are typically made from hardened steel, sometimes with corrosion-resistant finishes to maintain resilience and longevity. Indicating washers, on the other hand, provide visual or tactile indications of specific load or tension levels in a fastening assembly. These washers are essential in applications where maintaining specific load conditions is crucial for safety and performance.

Structural washers are ideal for construction and heavy machinery and typically pair with structural heavy hex bolts; they may also feature their specification on the face so they can be visually inspected for correct usage. Indicating washers add another layer of security by providing a way to easily monitor the tension of a load. They change shape, color, or provide visual indicators when the load reaches a predetermined level, alerting maintenance personnel to potential issues before they escalate. This feature is particularly valuable in structures or industrial equipment, where fastener failure can have severe consequences.

Yes, structural washers can be used alongside indicating washers in applications where both load distribution and tension monitoring are critical. This combination is particularly useful in scenarios where safety and structural integrity are important.

Both types of washers offer the same functionality. The difference is in their strength; structural washers are designed for heavier loads and structural applications, while traditional flat washers are good for general-purpose use.