Crinkle Washer Custom Stainless Steel Copper Elastic Locking Wave Spring Washer Curved Washer

Descrizione

What is a Crinkle Washer?

A Crinkle Washer (also called a Conical Spring Washer or Multi-Wave Washer) is a type of spring washer with a wavy, undulating design that provides controlled flexibility and tension under compression. Unlike flat washers, its crinkled/curved shape allows it to act as a spring, maintaining consistent pressure in bolted joints to prevent loosening from vibration or thermal cycling.

Specifications of Crinkle Washer

1. Material

• Carbon Steel (Grade 65Mn/1074) – Standard for general applications.

• Stainless Steel (AISI 304, 316) – Corrosion-resistant for harsh environments.

• Phosphor Bronze (C51000) – Electrical conductivity and fatigue resistance.

• Beryllium Copper – High strength and non-sparking properties.

2. Surface Treatment

• Zinc Plating – Basic rust protection (blue/white zinc).

• Passivation (Stainless Steel) – Enhances corrosion resistance.

• Black Oxide – Improves wear resistance and aesthetics.

• Nickel Plating – For chemical or marine exposure.

3. Common Sizes & Standards

• Inner Diameter (ID): M3 to M24 (metric) or #4 to 1″ (imperial).

• Outer Diameter (OD): Typically 1.5x the bolt size.

• Thickness: 0.3mm to 3mm, depending on wave count (3–6 waves common).

• Standards: DIN 137B, ISO 6980, or custom designs.

Applications of Crinkle Washers

• Automotive: Exhaust systems, engine mounts, and suspension components.

• Elettronica: PCB mounting, battery terminals, and heat sinks.

• Aerospace: Vibration-prone assemblies and avionics.

• Industrial Machinery: Pumps, compressors, and conveyor systems.

• Renewable Energy: Solar panel frames and wind turbine bolts.

Excellent Case: Vibration Damping in Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery Packs

Scenario

An EV manufacturer faces issues with battery module fasteners loosening due to constant road vibrations, risking electrical disconnections or thermal management failures.

Solution

1. Washer Selection:

   • Material: Stainless Steel AISI 316 (resists battery coolant corrosion).

   • Size: M8 crinkle washer (ID 8mm, OD 13mm, 4-wave design).

   • Surface Treatment: Passivated to prevent galvanic corrosion.

2. Installation:

   • Placed under the nut of each battery module bolt.

   • Compressed during torquing to maintain elastic tension even as the joint settles.

Result

• Eliminates Bolt Loosening: The washer’s spring action compensates for vibration-induced gaps.

• Reduces Maintenance: No retorquing needed over 100,000 km of vehicle use.

• Improves Safety: Prevents electrical arcing from loose terminals.

Why It’s Ideal

• Space-Efficient: Thinner than coil spring washers but equally effective.

• Thermal Stability: Maintains tension across -40°C to 120°C ranges.

Conclusion

Crinkle washers are a cost-effective solution for vibration damping, thermal expansion compensation, and anti-loosening in critical joints. The EV battery case highlights their role in enhancing reliability in modern engineering.