Thin Washers
Thin Washers for Spacing, Tolerance, and Alignment
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Bespoke Manufacturing
Instant Quote Service
Worldwide Delivery
Various Gauges/Thicknesses
Bespoke Manufacturing
Instant Quote Service
Worldwide Delivery
Various Gauges/Thicknesses
At Stephens Gaskets, we manufacture and supply Thin Washers designed for critical applications in mechanical assemblies, precision engineering, and manufacturing.
Our washers support precise alignment, spacing, and load distribution in demanding environments.
With over 70 years of experience, we’re a trusted Thin Washer Supplier to industries across the UK and beyond – including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and industrial manufacturing.
What Are Thin Washers?
Thin washers are flat, circular discs with a central hole, characterised by their reduced thickness. They are often used interchangeably with shims or spacers depending on the application.
Key Uses:
- Tolerance control between mating components.
- Precise spacing for movement or airflow.
- Light-duty load distribution on soft materials.
- Component alignment in assemblies.
- Electrical or thermal isolation with non-metallic variants.
Benefits of Thin Washers
1. Precision Tolerance Control
Ideal for micro-adjustments in high-performance assemblies.
2. Efficient Alignment
Corrects misalignment quickly without altering expensive components.
3. Time & Cost Savings
Eliminates the need for re-machining, enabling fast, affordable adjustments.
4. Vibration & Shock Dampening
Nylon, rubber, or neoprene variants reduce vibration and noise.
5. Load Spreading
Prevents damage on soft materials by diffusing the pressure of fasteners.
6. Thermal & Electrical Insulation
Non-metallic washers act as barriers against electrical contact and heat conduction.
7. Quick Maintenance
Easily removable or replaceable without dismantling entire assemblies.
8. Space-Efficient
Extremely thin profile allows for minimal disruption to component spacing.
Applications of Thin Washers
1. Tolerance Adjustment (Shimming)
Used to align misfitting or imperfect assemblies. Common in gearboxes, robotics, and precision machinery.
2. Component Spacing
Maintains gaps for airflow, insulation, or movement between parts. Often found in electronics and tool setups.
3. Backlash and Preload Control
Helps fine-tune bearing preload or eliminate gear backlash in drive systems, CNC machines, and automotive components.
4. Load Distribution
Provides protection to softer surfaces from bolts or screws by spreading light loads.
5. Precision Calibration
Supports alignment and calibration of scientific, metrology, or optical instruments.
6. Electrical and Thermal Isolation
Plastic, nylon, or PTFE washers provide insulation in electronics and electrical systems.
Materials for Thin Washers by Industry
| Material | Properties | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Steel (carbon/spring) | Strong, durable, economical | Automotive, general engineering |
| Stainless Steel (304/316) | Corrosion-resistant, heat-tolerant | Marine, medical, food processing |
| Brass | Conductive, corrosion-resistant | Electrical, electronics, decorative parts |
| Copper | High thermal/electrical conductivity | Circuitry, heat management systems |
| Aluminium | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant | Aerospace, lightweight assemblies |
| Nylon / PTFE | Insulating, chemically resistant | Electronics, low-load environments |
| Rubber / Neoprene / Silicone | Flexible, seals and absorbs vibration | Sealing, HVAC, electronics |
| Titanium | Strong, light, corrosion-proof | Aerospace, military-grade components |
Common Challenges with Thin Washers
1. Susceptible to Bending
- Problem: Easily deform under uneven loads or overtightening.
- Impact: Misalignment or damage to joint integrity.
- Solution: Use hardened or precision-ground washers for load-bearing applications.
2. Difficult Handling
- Problem: Small size makes manual placement tricky.
- Impact: Slower assembly or increased risk of misalignment.
- Solution: Use automated feeders or tabbed washers where applicable.
3. Limited Load Capacity
- Problem: Too thin to carry heavy loads.
- Impact: Can cause fastener loosening.
- Solution: Use reinforced materials or alternate load-spreading solutions.
4. Material Creep (Plastic Types)
- Problem: Plastics may deform over time under heat or pressure.
- Impact: Loss of tolerance or clamping force.
- Solution: Choose temperature-resistant materials like PTFE or PEEK.
5. Vibration Sensitivity
- Problem: Washers shift under high-vibration environments.
- Impact: Loosening or wear over time.
- Solution: Use vibration-damping variants like rubber or neoprene.
6. Corrosion Issues
- Problem: Low-grade metal washers rust in moist environments.
- Impact: Reduced washer integrity or staining.
- Solution: Use stainless, brass, or coated materials for outdoor/chemical settings.
7. Dimensional Inconsistency
- Problem: Poor tolerance control across large batches.
- Impact: Inconsistent fit or performance.
- Solution: Work with ISO 9001-certified washer suppliers.
FAQs
What are thin washers used for?
They adjust spacing, align components, control tolerances, and spread loads in mechanical assemblies.
Can thin washers be custom-sized?
Yes. We offer custom dimensions, thicknesses, and materials depending on your application needs.
What's the difference between a shim and a thin washer?
They are often used interchangeably – shims typically refer to alignment tools, while washers support fasteners.
Do you supply non-metallic washers?
Yes, including nylon, PTFE, rubber, and other non-metallic materials for insulation or damping.
What is your lead time for thin washers?
Standard sizes ship in 2-5 days. Custom or bulk orders typically take 5-10 days.
Are your washers certified?
Yes, all our washers are manufactured under ISO 9001 standards, with RoHS, REACH, and traceability on request.
Contact Stephens Gaskets
As a leading UK Thin Washer Supplier, Stephens Gaskets offers fast turnaround, technical expertise, and unmatched quality for all your tolerance and alignment needs.
Call: 0121 544 5808 | Email: sales@stephensgaskets.co.uk