You may have seen a regular round washer, but have you seen a C-shaped one? These unique-looking fastener accessories might be more common than you think. C-shaped washers get their name for their, well, c-shaped.

But what are they, and how are they used? Here’s a quick rundown on everything C-shaped washers.

What are C-Shape Washers?

What are "C" -Shape Washers?C-shape washers are slide-in and out washers that have a unique c-shaped design. They feature a slot cut from the center to the exterior that’s big enough to accommodate a screw or bolt. Their design allows an intuitive insertion, removal, and replacement without the need to remove the entire fastener.

While they are as effective as any other washer at evenly distributing force, their shape boosts productivity by allowing faster installation. Since they can be quickly removed and replaced in a partially complete assembly, they are commonly used in applications where bolts need to be frequently adjusted or removed.

C-shape washers also act as retaining washers, keeping the fastener in place without needing thread-locking compounds or other adhesive solutions. That’s because they do not allow movement when in position. They are especially helpful in applications such as grooved shafts where it might be challenging to keep a washer from falling off.

C-shape washers Materials and Sizes

At Minneapolis Washer and Stamping, we manufacture C-shape washers using various materials. Our in-house capabilities and vast supplier relationships allow us to create C-shape washers from different metals and alloys. Some of the most common materials include:

  • Spring steel
  • Stainless steel
  • Brass
  • Carbon steel
  • Aluminum

We also offer C-shape washers made from nylon, fiberglass, polycarbonate, and other non-metallic materials for applications needing electrical insulation or minimal sound. Additionally, we provide plated options for resistance to corrosion and other desired properties. (1)

C-shape washers come in a wide variety of sizes. We ensure that our inventory can accommodate most standard and metric screws, bolts, and other fasteners. Our engineers team will work with you to determine the best solution for your application.

C-shape Washer Applications

C-shape washers are most commonly used in applications requiring frequent assembly and disassembly. That can be for maintenance, repairs, or even adjustments during the application’s lifetime. some of the most common industries and applications that utilize C-shape washers include:

  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • HVAC
  • Appliances
  • Electronics
  • OEMs

If you’re looking for high-quality C-shape washers, Minneapolis Washer and Stamping is your trusted partner. We have the experience, expertise, and capabilities to create C-shape washers that meet your unique specifications. We offer timely delivery and competitive pricing on all of our products. Contact us today and get a quote. We proudly serve US with our industry-leading quality and service.

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