High-collar-Helical-Spring-Lock

What Is a High Collar Helical Steel Flat Lock Washer?

A High Collar Helical Steel Flat Lock Washer is a specialized fastening component engineered to provide enhanced locking performance and improved axial stability in bolted joints. Like standard helical Steel Flat Lock Washer, it uses a split-ring, helically formed structure to generate elastic preload when compressed during tightening. This elastic force helps resist loosening caused by vibration, shock, or dynamic loading.

What differentiates this design from a conventional spring lock washer is the integrated high collar . This raised collar extends upward from the washer body and partially surrounds the bolt shank, introducing an additional guiding and stabilizing function. While standard lock washers rely mainly on surface friction and spring tension, the high collar design improves load alignment and axial control.

This combination of elastic locking and geometric guidance makes high collar helical spring lock washers particularly suitable for applications requiring improved joint stability, accurate fastener positioning, and long-term preload retention.

How the High Collar Improves Axial Stability

The high collar significantly enhances axial stability compared with low-profile spring washers through several mechanical mechanisms:

Improved Fastener Centering

The collar helps guide and center the washer around the bolt or stud, reducing lateral displacement during tightening. This minimizes eccentric loading and ensures that the axial force is applied more evenly across the joint.

More Uniform Load Distribution

By increasing the contact height and guiding the fastener shank, the collar reduces uneven stress concentrations. This promotes consistent elastic deformation of the washer, helping maintain stable preload.

Reduced Micro-Movement

In vibration-prone environments, micro-slippage between components can gradually reduce clamping force. The collar adds axial restraint, limiting small relative movements that can lead to loosening.

Enhanced Resistance to Joint Settlement

As materials compress slightly after assembly, the spring action of the washer continues to apply force. The collar supports this function by maintaining alignment as minor embedment occurs.

Better Performance Under Dynamic Loads

Compared with low-profile designs, the high collar washer performs more reliably in applications involving repeated loading, shock, or thermal expansion.

Customizable Parameters for High Collar Helical Steel Flat Lock Washers

To meet diverse application requirements, this product can be customized across multiple parameters:

Dimensional Customization

Inner Diameter: Matched precisely to bolt or stud size

Outer Diameter: Adjusted to fit contact surface area or space constraints

Washer Thickness: Influences elastic load capacity and deflection behavior

Collar Design Options

Collar Height: Higher collars improve axial guidance; lower collars suit compact assemblies

Collar Tolerance: Controlled to ensure proper fit without interfering with threading

Material Selection

Common materials include:

Carbon Steel: High strength and elasticity for general industrial use

Stainless Steel: Corrosion resistance for outdoor or harsh environments

Alloy Steel: Enhanced mechanical performance for demanding applications

Surface Treatment

Options such as zinc plating, black oxide, or phosphate coating improve corrosion resistance, control friction, and extend service life.

Mechanical Properties

Hardness levels, heat treatment conditions, and spring characteristics can be specified to meet particular load or durability requirements.