01 Analysis and Functions of Flat Pads and elastic Pads

1.1 Cushion: A fundamental and important existence

A flat gasket, as the name suggests, is a type of gasket with a flat shape. Its main function is to increase the contact area, thereby dispersing the pressure and protecting the surface of the connected parts. In practical applications, flat washers can effectively prevent the surface of the connected parts from being damaged by nuts or bolt heads during the tightening process. For example, when connecting some materials that are relatively soft or brittle in texture, flat pads can play a very good buffering and protective role. However, the flat pad itself does not have the anti-loosening function. Its responsibility is more to serve as an auxiliary component, providing stability and protection for the entire connection system.

1.2 Elastic Pads: The "Main Force" in Anti-loosening

Unlike flat washers, the design intention of spring washers (spring washers) is to prevent loosening. The anti-loosening principle is that after being flattened, it generates continuous elastic force, maintaining a certain frictional force between the threaded connection pair of the nut and the bolt, thereby generating a resistance moment to prevent the nut from loosening. In addition, the sharp corners at the openings of the spring pads can be embedded into the surfaces of the bolts and the connected parts, further preventing the rotation of the bolts. In some situations with frequent vibration, such as the connection between the motor and the frame, the spring washer can effectively prevent the nut from loosening due to vibration.

However, the anti-loosening ability of the elastic pad is not foolproof. When the preload of the bolt is too large, the spring washer may be completely flattened, and even expansion rings or breakage may occur. In this case, the spring washer not only fails to play a role in preventing loosening, but may also reduce the preload of the bolt and increase the risk of loosening. Therefore, spring washers are more suitable for applications where the preload of bolts is not highly required and the dynamic load is relatively small.

02 Advantages and Disadvantages of Flat Pads and elastic pads

Flat pad

Advantages:

By increasing the contact area, the components can be protected from damage.

② By increasing the contact area, the pressure between the nut and the equipment is reduced, thereby playing a protective role.

Disadvantage:

① Flat washers cannot play a role in shock absorption.

② Flat washers also have no anti-loosening function.

Spring pad

Advantages:

① Spring washers have a good anti-loosening effect;

② Spring washers have a good shock-absorbing effect.

③ Low manufacturing cost;

④ It is very convenient to install.

Disadvantage:

Spring washers are greatly influenced by the material and manufacturing process. If the material