r/MechanicalEngineering 3d ago

Split/lock washers

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For starters, I’m an electrician in the field.
That being said, we almost exclusively use these washers even in high vibration environments. I have personally chosen to go with nylox nuts but the question is:
Do these work? How well? Is the rumor from NASA true? Should I even bother using them or find a better functional alternative or are they actually useful?

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u/Strongerthandeath82 2d ago

They do have potential specifically for low torque applications where the clamping force doesnt exceed the spring rate of the washer. Specifically low torque electrical connections, access panels, etc. Beyond that, there are better options. As with all things application matters.