Standard Flat Washer Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about standard flat washers.
What are standard flat washers?
Standard flat washers are the most widely used fastener components across industrial, commercial, and consumer applications. They provide reliable load distribution under bolt heads and nuts, protect bearing surfaces from damage, and improve joint stability. Superior Washer stocks standard flat washers in SAE and USS sizes across a comprehensive range of materials including steel, stainless steel, brass, aluminum, nylon, PTFE, fiber, and phenolic.
What is the difference between SAE and USS standard washers?
SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) washers have a smaller outer diameter relative to the bolt size and are used in applications requiring a more compact bearing surface. USS (United States Standard) washers have a larger outer diameter, providing a broader load distribution area. Both series are stocked in multiple materials at Superior Washer.
What materials are your standard flat washers available in?
Superior Washer standard flat washers are available in 1008/1010 carbon steel, stainless steel (301/302/304), brass (Alloy 260), nylon, PTFE, fiber (vulcanized), and phenolic. Steel and stainless steel are available in both plain and zinc-plated finishes. Material and size options are listed in the product filter on this page.
What types of standard washers do you carry beyond SAE and USS?
In addition to SAE and USS, Superior Washer stocks Type A and Type B flat washers, bolt and screw washers, machine screw washers, N400/N401/N402 series washers, inner and outer race spacers, and race spacers. Standard Brass, Nylon Standard, PTFE Standard, Phenolic Standard, and Standard Fiber types are also available. See the product filter for the full type listing.
Can you produce custom standard washers?
Yes. Our standard washer catalog covers over 1,270 stocked configurations, and we also manufacture custom washers to non-standard dimensions, materials, or finishes. Contact us via the Quick Quote form or call NY (631) 273-8282 or SC (803) 366-3250.
Are your standard flat washers made in the USA?
Yes. All standard flat washers are manufactured in the United States at our facilities in Hauppauge, NY (CAGE Code: 1L160) and Rock Hill, SC (CAGE Code: 4WUG7) under our ISO 9001:2015 certified Quality Management System. Material certifications are available upon request.
Standard sizing is just one part of our catalog. Explore our full range of flat washers to see every material and configuration we offer.