If you work in marine environments, you have to be careful about the washers you use. In Spring Lock washer vs Split lock washer review, we compare two washers that suit wet environments better.
For a long time, I struggled with getting the right washers to use while repairing my cruise boat. The flat washers I used could not withstand the wet environments of the sea. I found myself struggling with rust and corrosion due to the salinity of the sea. Besides the rust, I also had to worry about the integrity of the fastened joints. the boats often came loose and a component in the boat would stop functioning. This one I discovered my boat was leaking water because of a bolt that had come off. After doing some research, I discovered spring lock washers and split lock washers. This is my review on both washers.
Spring Lock Washer and Split Lock Washer- How do they Compare?
| Spring Lock Washer | Split Lock Washer | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Quantity | 295 pcs | 370 pcs |
| Finish | Silver | Silver |
| Check the price | Check the price |
Spring Lock Washer Vs Split Lock Washer- In-depth Comparison
Material
As I refurbished my boat, I have realized one important thing. Stainless steel washers tend to be durable. Spring lock washers feature a stainless steel body which is strong and durable. One other thing I love about these washers is their high resistance to corrosion and rust. Spring lock washers are often recommended in marine uses.
Split lock washers equally boast of stainless steel construction. Their advantage is the split end that locks bolt heads and nuts in place. Split lock washers also suit marine application. They also have great resistance to corrosive chemicals.
Quantity
If the quantity of washers is a deal breaker for you, then you will go with split lock washers. Split lock washers from HVAZI comes with 370 pieces. For a DIY guy like me, this is enough to keep me going on my boat repair projects. The Spring Lock Washer set from Hitilchi has over 295 washer pieces. Given both washers have near similar prices, you are getting value for money on the split lock washer.
Functionality
The best washers hold the bolt in place so it does not loosen. Between the two washers, I vouch for split lock washers for being more functional. The split end locks the bolt and nuts in place preventing them from moving. Split washers do a good job preventing bolts from loosening.
Spring lock washers have a warped shaped which locks with the thread lines of a bolt. This prevents bolts from spinning on the thread side. Though it does the job at first, the bond holding the joint weakens with time. Split lockers do a better job in holding the screw in place.
Size
Both Spring and Split lock washers come in assorted sizes. This helps you use the washers with bolts of any size. If you are working with heavy duty bolts, split lock washers are more ideal. Their thick profile can weather the pressure of screwing the large bolts in to establish a strong bond.
Spring Lock Washer
Spring lock washers are ideal if you are working in a wet environment. They feature a stainless steel body that is strong and corrosion-resistant. These washers have a warped shape which locks the thread line of bolts. This prevents the bolts from turning under high vibration.
Spring lock washers have a rust-resistant coating as well. This makes it possible to use these washers in humid conditions. You have a total of 295 washers in a convenient plastic box. These are enough washers to last you through any project.
All washers feature a stainless steel silver color. You can use them as they are or paint a different color for aesthetics. These washers are useful whether you are working on marine equipment or maintain electric appliance at home.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- Warped to lock thread lines in place
- Comes in an assorted pack
Cons
- Bond weakens with time
Split Lock Washer
Split lock washers are one of the easiest fasteners to work with. They feature a split end that locks on bolt heads and nuts. This ensures bolts do not spin and loosen even in high vibrations. Split lock washers are also recommended in applications that involve extreme heat.
One pack of split washers from HVAZI contains 370 pieces. These pieces come in sizes M3, M4, M5, and M6. You also have M8, M10, and M12 which are the larger sizes. Feel free to use these washers on screws of varying sizes.
Split lock washers have a stainless steel profile that is resistant to rust and corrosion. This product comes in a see-through plastic container. It makes it easy to select your washers faster and complete your projects sooner.
Pros
- Stainless steel body
- Comes in various sizes
- Ideal for heavy duty application
Cons
- Flattens if screwed too tight
Conclusion
As I wind up this Spring Lock washer vs Split Lock washer review, my choice washer is the split lock washer. It has a sturdy body and locks onto bolt heads better compared to spring locks. Spring lock washers are great for hydro environments. The only issue is they lose their tenacity faster compared to split lock washers.
FAQ
When is a split lock washer used?
Split lock washers are handy when you want to tighten the nut side of a bolt. The washer distributes pressure evenly which promotes a better grip.
How does a spring lock washer work?
Spring lock washers have a warped shape which helps achieve axial flexibility. The warped part prevents bolts and nuts from loosening.
How does a split lock washer work?
Split lock washers have split ends that lock on the bolt head. This prevents the bolt head from turning and loosening.
How do you remove lock washers?
First unscrew the nut using a wrench or a socket. Next use a flat head screwdriver to pry the lock washer to free it.