External Tooth Lock Washer

An external tooth lock washer is a type of lock washer that features teeth on the outer edge of the washer. These teeth are designed to dig into the surface of the material being fastened, providing additional friction and preventing the fastener from loosening due to vibration or torque.

Key Features of External Tooth Lock Washers:

1. Teeth Position: The teeth are located on the outer edge of the washer, which makes contact with the surface around the bolt, screw, or nut.

2. Locking Mechanism: As the fastener is tightened, the teeth bite into the material, creating resistance and preventing the fastener from loosening.

3. Material: These washers are commonly made from materials like steel, stainless steel, or other durable metals.

4. Shape: The washer typically has a round shape with several sharp teeth protruding from the outer edge.

Applications:

• Wood and Soft Materials: External tooth washers are particularly useful in applications involving softer materials like wood or plastic. The teeth are effective at gripping the surface to hold the fastener in place.

• Vibration-Prone Environments: Used in situations where vibration might cause fasteners to loosen, such as in automotive or machinery assemblies.

• Construction and Electrical Work: They can be used in general construction, automotive repairs, and some electrical applications where securing a fastener tightly is essential.

Advantages:

1. Increased Grip: The outward-facing teeth dig into the surface around the fastener, providing a strong grip.

2. Prevention of Loosening: They help prevent nuts, bolts, or screws from becoming loose due to vibrations or rotational forces.

3. Easy Installation: The washer's teeth make it easy to install and can be especially useful when working with softer materials.

Differences from Internal Tooth Lock Washers:

• External Tooth Lock Washers: Have teeth on the outer edge of the washer and typically work best when fasteners are tightened against softer materials like wood or plastic.

• Internal Tooth Lock Washers: Have teeth on the inner edge of the washer, which makes contact with the fastener itself. These are often used when securing bolts or nuts against other metallic fasteners.

Common Types of External Tooth Lock Washers:

• Regular External Tooth Washers: The teeth are spaced evenly around the edge of the washer.

• Heavy-Duty External Tooth Washers: These have larger, thicker teeth designed for more demanding applications that require extra grip and resistance to vibration