Flat washers are the most commonly used type of washer, designed to distribute the load of threaded fasteners, reduce surface pressure, and prevent damage to mating surfaces. They provide a smooth bearing surface while compensating for oversized or irregular holes.
Applicable Standards – Inch Series
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ASME B18.21.1 | Plain washers – inch series (Type A: Narrow/SAE, Wide/USS; Type B: Narrow/Regular/Wide) |
| ASTM F436 | Hardened steel structural washers for high-strength bolting applications |
| ASTM F844 | Unhardened steel plain washers for general purpose applications |
| Fender Washers | Extra-large outside diameter washers for oversized holes or soft materials |
Applicable Standards – Metric Series
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| DIN 125 / ISO 7089 | Plain washers, product grade A – standard series |
| DIN 9021 / ISO 7093 | Plain washers with large outside diameter – increased load distribution |
| ISO 7091 | Plain washers, product grade C – general purpose (replaces DIN 126) |
| ISO 7089 / ISO 7090 / ISO 7091 / ISO 7092 / ISO 7093 / ISO 7094 | Various metric plain washer series for different applications |
Materials
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Carbon Steel (various grades)
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Stainless Steel (304, 316, 321, 347)
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Brass
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Copper
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Aluminum
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Plastic/Nylon
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Specialty alloys upon request
Surface Treatments
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Plain (as-formed)
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Zinc plating (clear, blue, yellow)
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Hot-dip galvanizing
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Black oxide
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Dacromet / Geomet
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Passivation (stainless steel)
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Cadmium plating (upon request)
Common Applications
Construction and structural steel connections, automotive assemblies, machinery and equipment manufacturing, electrical and electronic enclosures, plumbing and piping systems, furniture assembly, marine applications, aerospace components.















