Washers are another critical member of the wide world of fasteners. They’re certainly not sexy and can be overlooked at times. However, they play a crucial role in the function and longevity of the majority of products using mechanical fasteners. Like most fasteners, there are many different types and sub-types, with the application ultimately driving the appropriate selection.

According to Engineering360, washers are “… disks of metal or non-metallic material placed beneath a nut, an axle bearing, or a joint, to relieve friction, prevent leakage, isolate, prevent loosening, or distribute pressure.” 

Most people are likely familiar with the typical “Type A plain washer,” otherwise known as a flat washer. These are considered general-purpose washers and are used in myriad applications.  

SAE washers are similar to Type A plain washers but are thinner and approved by the Society of Automotive Engineers for use with fine thread bolts and nuts. Other major categories of washers include Spring or Disc washers (of which there are many styles), Lock washers, Torque washers, and more. We’ll break down the different types of washers and their applications in more detail in future posts. Today’s entry will focus on the common attributes of each washer.  

While very important, the basics of common washer attributes break down quite simply into size, thickness, and material. 

EMT’s and ambulance personnel are under tremendous pressure. They have to concentrate and react quickly to care for their patients, and they have to do it while trying to stay on their feet in a fast-moving vehicle.

A critical moment for EMT’s is when they need to change out IV bags. Most IV hangers used in ambulances today require the EMT to use two hands to thread the bag onto the hanger. The process of identifying the hanger then trying to quickly thread the bag onto a stiff clasp can rob them of critical seconds. Moreover, with no extra hand available to provide balance, they’re exposed to injuring themselves, coworkers, or even the patient in the event of a quick turn or sudden stop.

At Austin Hardware®, we are your source for research and development, design, manufacturing, and more. We have extensive custom engineering capabilities and pride ourselves on providing some of the best engineering solutions across the industry.

Since 1960, we've worked hard to develop quality engineered solutions for the many different industries we serve. What started as a small, family-owned business has grown into the business you see today. We currently have 9 locations strategically located throughout the country to fully serve all regions of the U.S. and Canada.

Today, Austin Hardware® is the go-to specialty product and hardware supplier of choice for businesses in dozens of industries. Our Engineering team will work with your business to understand your needs and help identify your goals. 

Austin Guaranteed Engineering Solutions™

Why should you work with our team? The answer is simple: we have the knowledge, experience, and track record to get the job done right. Our engineering and design team is with you every step of the way, from concept to finished product.

We can help improve product design, functionality, and user experience while assisting with costs, sourcing, and manufacturing time. Combined, our team has over 100 years of experience and more than 25 patents. We are also ISO 9001:2015 certified for hardware and fastener products.

Prototyping Capabilities

Our engineering team is capable of your entire product design process, including the crucial step of prototyping. From research and development all the way to product launch and everything in between, we are your source. Designing your prototype is an essential part of product development.

Our team understands the need to assist with this stage of design. If your business is sourcing a custom-engineered product, you know that the prototype stage is critical to test functionality and meet your specific design needs. Our team carefully evaluates your concept and can choose from a variety of prototyping capabilities to help you design a low-cost and effective prototype.

Industrial Pins are an essential type of fastener with many uses. They are designed to resist shear and torsional forces. 

Engineering360 defines industrial pins as “… varieties of fastening hardware meant to couple, align, mount, assemble or penetrate two workpieces. The operation of the pin depends on design and employment…” 

Roll-formed metal is commonly used in the manufacture of industrial pins for purposes of strength, precision, and functionality. The types of metal used run the gamut- hardened and unhardened steel, stainless steel, brass, Monel®, aluminum, and titanium are all fashioned into industrial pins. Plastic, as well as wood, typically used in furniture because they can be sanded, stained, and painted for decorative purposes, are also common materials used in the production of fastening pins. 

When it comes to work truck safety, staying safe on the road is just as important as keeping your equipment safe, secure, and up to date. In addition to keeping your truck safe, it is essential always to follow DOT guidelines and ensure that your team knows local and state safety regulations.

Keeping your work truck means knowing when to stay safe and finding the right products that assist with your safety and peace of mind. At Austin Hardware®, we know trucks, and we know a thing or two about providing quality parts and products for your work truck.

If you’re in the construction or woodworking business, you’re using nails every day. Homeowners often find themselves looking for just the right nail for their DIY projects. Even the core customers of Austin Hardware®, which are in the transportation and metal fabrication businesses, industries in which nails are not a predominant fastener, find the occasional need for nails for different projects such as constructing shipping containers for their products. 

Clinch Fasteners

Clinch or self-clinching fasteners are typically used for metal assemblies that may be too thin for tapping or in applications where it’s not feasible to employ stamped or extruded threads.

Self-clinching fasteners are found in household appliances, electronics, medical equipment, telecom equipment, automotive and transportation markets, and many other industrial applications.

When it comes to DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects, you probably have a lot of questions about how to source the right products, and how you are going to execute your visions in real life. At Austin Hardware®, we are in the business of securing and providing solutions for our many different types of customers, including those who are DIY enthusiasts or home repair beginners. When it comes to finding the right hardware for your next project, you want to know you are sourcing quality, reliable goods for your business. Also, you want to know that the strength rating, materials, and design are the right choice for your project. Here are three of the biggest ways to use handles or other hardware for your next home repair or DIY project. 

Enclosed trailer and horse trailer manufacturers, which are fabricated from aluminum in particular, often have trouble with 3-piece rear door and ramp door hinge alignment.

It takes precise measurement and careful hands to align most standard 3-piece rear and ramp door hinges correctly due to the challenge of laying the hinge flat for welding or bolting. This can add an inordinate amount of time to the assembly process. Additionally, while most assemblers get close, even a slightly misaligned hinge can adversely affect its durability and longevity. These are two critical expectations for buyers of high-end aluminum trailers.

When it comes to outfitting your work truck with the best on the market, let Austin Hardware® be your guide for all things work-truck related. We carry the top of line merchandise from lighting, drawer systems, handles, hinges, locking mechanisms, and more. Even better, Austin Guaranteed Engineered Solutions™ provides businesses like yours with state-of-the-art products guaranteed to give you the solutions you need.