Do split washers maintain the integrity of a bolted joint? In this Tooth Lock Washer Vs Split lock washer review, I explain why tooth lock washers are the better alternative.
I run a gas installation company in my hometown. One challenge I face a lot is working with bolts. The hard part has always been locking the bolts in place. I have worked with split lock washers before and the problem did not go away. The bolts loosened with time taking me back to square one. I realized that the problem was not having enough teeth on the washer to bit onto the surface. This is how I got introduced to tooth lock washers. When I started using them, I never faced the problem of loosening bolts again. This review will compare how the tooth lock washer compares to the split lock washers in detail.
Tooth Lock Washer and Split Lock Washer-How do they Compare?
| Tooth Lock Washer | Split Lock Washer | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Quantity | 300 pieces | 20 pieces |
| Finish | Silver | Silver |
| Check price | Check Price |
Tooth Lock Washer Vs Split Lock Washer
Material
Modern washers feature stainless steel construction for strength and durability. The tooth lock washers are not only stainless steel but also have a glossy finish. Split lock washers have the conventional dull silvery color which also works fine. Considering the washers will sit between bolt and surface, the finish does not really matter. Some washers only have steel construction that needs repainting with a non-corrosive coating. Fortunately, these washers have that covered.
Quantity
How many washers do you need to last you through a project? I like to get more of the tooth lock washers and less of the split lockers. In my preferred pack from Hilitchi, the tooth lock washers come in 300 pieces. They are enough to get me through a piping project and still have a few washers left. The split lock washers I buy come in a pack with 20 pieces. You may also get them in packs containing 200 or 300 washer pieces.
Functionality
Tooth lock washers have teeth or serration on the internal ring or surface. This helps lock the washer preventing it from rotating. I use tooth washers in pairs to take advantage of this locking mechanism. The teeth lock on each other, the bolt, and joining surface. This provides a stronger bond that prevents bolts from loosening under high vibration.
Split lock washers have a helical design with split ends. The split end locks on both the bolt and the surface. This stops the bolt from rotating under vibration. Split lock washers are not applicable in areas with extreme vibrations like in mowers.
Tooth Lock washer
Tooth lock washers are useful when you want to hold a joint steady under extreme vibration. These washers have a stainless steel construction that makes them tough and durable. Tooth lock washers have internal serrations which act as a locking mechanism. When used in pairs, the teeth on the washers lock on each other preventing bolts from loosening.
Tooth lock washers are ideal for use in the home and industrial projects. They are the perfect washers to go for when refurbishing your mower. Tooth washers are handy in tightening the bolts and nuts used in gas piping. Thanks to the serrations, you will never worry about bolts and nuts coming loose.
This product comes in a pack containing 300 pieces of washers. This ensures you have enough washers to work with before the next restocking. All washers feature 304 high-grade steel that has a polished coat. It prevents the metal surface from rusting or corroding.
Pros
- Strong and durable material
- Available in different sizes
- Internal teeth for a firm lock on bolts
Cons
- Loosens if not tightened well
Split Lock Washer
Split lock washers are the go-to fasteners for every day joining works. They boast of stainless steel construction that is strong and durable. This stainless steel coating is resistant to both rust and corrosion. You will find these washers useful in marine applications.
This particular product is from Prime and Lime who sell it in a pack containing 20 pieces. Those are enough washers when you are making minor refurbishment to equipment or appliances. Larger projects will need a higher supply of split lock washers. It means going for packs that contain up to 300 washer pieces.
The split end of the washer locks onto the head of the bolt. It prevents the bolt from rotating and loosening. In environments with minimal vibrations, these washers would work fine. The washer loses its integrity in high vibration environments.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Firmly grips on bolt heads
- Best in marine environments
Cons
- Loses grip with time
Conclusion
As I wind up this Tooth Lock washer Vs Split lock washer review, my ultimate winner is the tooth lock washer. In my line of work, high vibrations are a common thing. I will need washers that have a firm grip on the bolt and surface. Tooth lock washers do a great job in ensuring the bond between bolt and surface is intact.
FAQ
Can you use a lock washer with a flat washer?
Lock washers are compatible with flat washers. They can help exert pressure on the joined surface leading to a better grip. Flat washers on their own are not as effective.
How does an internal tooth lock washer work?
Internal tooth lock washers have teeth on the inside ring which lock onto bolt heads. When used in pairs, internal tooth lock washers bite into each other establishing a tough grip on the joint.
What is the difference between a lock washer and flat washer?
The two differ in their area of application. Lock washers go on the nut side of the fastener to establish a bond. Flat washers have a flat profile that goes on both the bolt or nut side.
Is a Split lock washer a spring lock washer?
A split lock washer and a spring lock washer are the same thing. They both have a split end that locks onto