Is a Rigid Lock Washer Necessary?

In many bolted assemblies, especially those exposed to vibration, dynamic loads, or thermal cycles, a standard flat washer alone often cannot guarantee long-term joint integrity. A Rigid Lock Washer becomes necessary when conditions cause fasteners — bolts or nuts — to gradually lose preload, back off, or rotate loose.

Rigid Lock Washers add extra security by introducing friction, tension or mechanical interference, preventing unintentional loosening. In environments such as automotive, machinery, heavy equipment, or any assembly subject to continuous vibration or shifting loads, a correctly selected lock washer significantly reduces maintenance cycles, improves safety, and helps maintain consistent clamping force over time.

That said — rigid lock washers are not mandatory in every situation. For static joints with no vibration, stable materials and low risk of loosening, a plain washer or flat washer may suffice. The need for a lock washer depends on the application's environmental stresses, risk tolerance, and maintenance requirements.

What's the Proper Way to Use a Rigid Lock Washer?

To get the full benefit of a lock washer, proper selection and installation are crucial:

Choose the right type for the job: Lock washers come in various designs — split (helical), tooth (internal or external), serrated, and spring-type — and each suits different conditions (light load, vibration, soft or hard materials).

Place under the nut or screw head: The washer should go directly beneath the nut or bolt head so its locking mechanism can engage properly.

Ensure proper surface and fit: The mating surfaces must be clean, free of paint, rust, oil, or debris; otherwise the washer’s teeth or edges may not bite correctly — reducing locking performance.

Match washer size and material: Use a washer whose inner diameter fits snugly around the bolt shank; select materials compatible with the bolt and the surrounding metal to avoid galvanic corrosion or material damage.

Apply correct torque, don’t over-tighten: Over-tightening can flatten spring-type washers or crush teeth, which eliminates their locking action. Under-tightening may prevent proper preload. A torque wrench is recommended to achieve the ideal clamping force.

Avoid combining flat washers improperly: Placing a flat washer between the lock washer and the surface undermines the lock washer’s bite and reduces its effectiveness.

When installed correctly — with the right washer type, clean surface, correct torque and configuration — a lock washer can reliably maintain joint integrity, prevent loosening, and extend the service life of assemblies under vibration, dynamic loads, or thermal cycling.

Why Our Lock Washers Stand Out

Our lock washer products are manufactured under strict quality control, using high-grade materials and precision stamping or heat-treatment where required. Each washer is designed and tested to meet international standards, ensuring reliable locking performance in demanding industrial environments. Coupled with proper sizing, surface finish options, and material compatibility, our lock washers provide cost-effective, durable solutions to fastening challenges that flat washers alone cannot address.

We also support custom specifications — whether you need a special size, tooth configuration, or surface treatment — to match unique design requirements. With our lock washers, you get an enhanced fastener system that reduces maintenance, improves safety, and delivers consistent performance under tough conditions.