Helical Spring Washer for Custom Sizes Marine Grade Stainless Steel Split Lock Washer

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What are Helical Spring Washer?

A helical spring washer, also known as a split lock washer, is a ring split at one point with the ends slightly offset. This split creates a spring-like action. When tightened, the washer flattens, generating axial tension between the fastener and the mating surface. This tension resists loosening caused by vibration, while the sharp edges of the split grip both the nut and the base material.

Materials

The material choice directly impacts corrosion resistance, operating temperature, and load capacity.

• Spring Steel (Carbon Steel): The industry standard. It is hardened and tempered to provide maximum spring tension and is typically used for general machinery.

• Stainless Steel (A2 & A4): Offers excellent corrosion resistance. A2 (304) is for general indoor use, while A4 (316) is for marine and chemical environments.

• Phosphor Bronze: Provides good corrosion resistance and is non-sparking. It is often used in marine propellers, valves, and electrical components.

• Silicon Bronze: Commonly used in timber construction (e.g., for decking) where high corrosion resistance and a cosmetic match with wood are required.

Surface Finishes

Finishes are applied to enhance corrosion protection or for specific aesthetic requirements.

• Plain/Black (Oiled): A basic coating of oil to prevent rust during storage; standard for unplated spring steel.

• Zinc Plated (Clear/Yellow/Blue): A cost-effective barrier against corrosion for indoor applications.

• Geomet® / Dacromet®: A water-based, chrome-free coating that offers high corrosion resistance without the risk of hydrogen embrittlement.

• Passivated: The standard finish for stainless steel to remove contaminants and maximize natural corrosion resistance.

• Hot-Dip Galvanized: A thick zinc coating applied after manufacturing for heavy-duty outdoor use.

Specifications & Standards

Helical spring washers are defined by strict dimensional standards and material properties.

• Diameter (Screw Size): Ranges from M3 to M36 (metric) and #2 to 1-1/2″ (inch).

• Dimensions (DIN 127 / DIN 128):

  • DIN 127 (Form A): The standard heavy-duty split washer with rectangular cross-section.

  • DIN 128 (Form B): A curved or square-edged variant for specific applications.

• Material Hardness: Typically specified between 40-50 HRC (Rockwell C) for carbon steel to ensure proper spring force without cracking.

• Thickness & Width: Defined by the standard, varying according to the nominal diameter.

Key Application Areas

Helical spring washers are used wherever dynamic loads and vibrations threaten to loosen bolted joints.

• Automotive Assembly: Securing engine components, chassis parts, and suspension systems against constant vibration.

• Heavy Machinery: Used in agricultural equipment, construction vehicles, and presses where shock loads are frequent.

• Structural Steel: Locking bolts in place for steel frame construction, bridges, and transmission towers.

• Railway Engineering: Securing track components and railcar assemblies to withstand continuous movement.

• DIY & Furniture: A common component in ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture to prevent screws from loosening over time.

An Excellent Case: Agricultural Harvester Gearbox Mounting

A compelling example of helical spring washer application is in mounting a gearbox onto a large agricultural combine harvester.

The gearbox transmits high torque and is subjected to continuous, high-amplitude vibration from the engine and the harvesting mechanism. If standard flat washers were used, the constant vibration would cause the mounting bolts to gradually rotate backward, leading to a loose gearbox, misalignment of belts or shafts, and potentially catastrophic mechanical failure.

By installing DIN 127 helical spring washers (zinc-plated spring steel) under the bolt heads and nuts, the split in the washer creates persistent axial tension. As the machine vibrates, the spring action of the washer constantly pushes against the fastener, taking up any slack and maintaining clamping force. This ensures the gearbox remains rigidly fixed throughout the harvest season, maximizing uptime and safety in a high-stakes operational environment.