The split lock washer is shaped like a basic washer but with one split along its diameter. Read the Split lock washer vs spring lock washer review for more information.
I like to spend time on YouTube learning different skills and how to make home appliances and tools. It is much easier than you think if you have the right equipment and motivation for the job. I have enjoyed gardening and mowing my lawn to get a perfect finish. I have also learnt a few tips to maintain my car. Lumber application has been a bit more challenging because my blots keep losing grip after some time of use. After searching online for a while, I discovered that I was missing out on a key element.
What are the differences between Split lock washer vs spring lock washer? How do they compare?
| Comparison | Split lock washer | spring lock washer |
| Size | ¼ inch | Multiple sizes |
| Weight | 4 ounces | 6.6 ounces |
| Material | Steel | Stainless steel |
| Usage | Wood | Strong metals, in humid environment |
| Check the price | Check the price |
Split lock washer vs spring lock washer – A Detailed Comparison
Material and durability
Hilitchi Stainless Steel Spring Wave Washer is made of high quality stainless steel. This makes the spring washer suitable for almost any type of weather. Since they are corrosion resistant, you can probably re-use them several times.
The split lock washers are made with a zinc finish which provides a moderate resistance to corrosion. This makes it durable to some extent. The strong stainless steel on the inside makes the material strong and long lasting.
Design
Hilitchi Stainless Steel Spring Wave Washer is kind of like the Belleville design wise. The only difference is that the Hilitchi spring washer is curved in one direction. When installed, there are few contacts points between the screw head or the nut and the washer. The wave is meant to provide some kind of spring pressure when it is compressed. You can use it as a lock washer but it doesn’t mean it can be as effective.
A ring split at one point and bent into a helical shape. This causes the washer to exert a spring force between the fastener’s head and the substrate, which maintains the washer hard against the substrate and the bolt thread hard against the nut or substrate thread, creating more friction and resistance to rotation.
Installation
The Hilitchi spring wave washer is perfect for electronic connections in the house hold. It can be used with several other applications as well. They are popular in marine and automotive construction and commercial appliances. This spring lock washer is a left hand helix which means you have to turn it in a clockwise direction to tighten it on a bolt. Turning it in the opposite direction will raise the edges making it hard to turn.
There have been questions and debates over the use and effectiveness of the split lock washers. According to some users, the split lock washers cannot be installed too tightly. This is because they become flat against the substrate leading to zero resistance to rotation.
Split lock washer ¼ review
The split lock washer is shaped just like a regular washer but has a noticeable split at one point. It offers you a circular bearing that had split ends that function by biting into the material that is being installed. The shape of this split washer carries a benefit of its own. When there is too much compression near the bolt, this washer will twist until it flattens. In return, this reduces spring rate of the bolt and keeps the force on the same level. In short, it provides an effective way to prevent bolts from loosening.
The shape also provides you with a locking feature and helps to keep it nice and tight. Basically, it is rounded and has a split at one point of the circumference. The split is responsible for the force caused by the washer between the substrate and fasteners’ head.
This split washer, like most, has a left hand helix. This property will only allow you to tighten the washer strictly in the clockwise direction. If you try to tighten it in the ant-clockwise direction, it will resist turning due to the bolting of the underside part of the washer.
Pros
- It has a zinc finish to moderate any corrosion resistant
- You can use it with bolts and nuts that have a similar diameter
- You get 100 pieces in the package
Cons
- It is somewhat useless for locking
Hilitchi Stainless Steel Spring Wave Washer review
Hilitchi is known to produce countless washer designs for several years now. You can use this washer on several applications on your home; they are meant to join the bolt/nut to prevent any form of loosening. How do they work? Basically they provide some spring force when they are assembled, especially in tight spaces.
This particular pack comes in a specific style but has a variety of sized for different sized assembly. They are 295 pieces in total, all sorted and packed in the same box; they are made of high grade 304 stainless steel. This material makes them durable and perfect corrosion resistant materials. You can install these in humid environments and they will last you for quite a long time.
Pros
- Made of durable and corrosion free material;
- Perfect for electrical connections
- Affordable
Cons
- May loosen over time
The bottom line
Spring and split washers serve two totally different purposes and they are created in very different designs. if you are looking for a vibration free tightening washer, the spring lock washer is the perfect match.
FAQS
Is the split lock washer galvanised?
No, the split lock washer is cadmium coated. It also has a zinc finish that helps to minimise corrosion and can be used with treated lumber applications.
Does the Hilitchi Stainless Steel Spring Wave Washer mar plastic surfaces?
This spring washer set is made from great material that will not mar any tender surfaces. You can install in on plastic arms and is perfect for nuts and bolts.
What is the material of the Hilitchi Stainless Steel Spring Wave Washer?
It is made in stainless steel material that has a very good corrosion resistance. You can use it for quite a long time without worrying about rust and breakage.
What is the main purpose of the split lock washers?
They are meant to prevent the screws, nuts and bolts from loosening over time due to vibration. They are pressed down to add an extra pressure on the material.