As you tighten a bolt, these metric washers flatten to add tension to the threaded joint and prevent loosening from small amounts of vibration. All of these washers meet a DIN or ASME standard for split lock washer dimensions.

Curved and wave split lock washers can be used with bolts that have right- or left-hand threads to prevent clockwise or counterclockwise rotation from vibration. Although they don’t grip as tight as standard split lock washers for applications with clockwise rotation, they are best for those with counterclockwise rotation. These washers retain their shape when untightened and will not damage nuts and bolts, so all can be reused. Wave washers grip tighter than curved washers because they make contact with your surface at more points. Their wave design also means they compensate for uneven surfaces and tolerance variations.

Stainless steel washers are more corrosion resistant than steel, and nearly as strong. 18-8 stainless steel washers are good for humid, damp, and washdown environments, but will corrode when exposed to salt water and other chlorine solutions.

Use zinc-plated and yellow zinc-plated steel washers in mostly dry environments. The zinc plating offers temporary rust protection, but once it wears away the steel will rust. All of these washers are stronger and more wear resistant than stainless steel.

Steel washers are stronger and more wear resistant than zinc-plated steel and stainless steel. Use them in dry environments because they will rust in wet and corrosive environments. Black steel washers have a black residue that forms from being heat treated; the color will wear away over time.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.