STAINLESS STEEL Z-SERRATED CONICAL WASHERS TYPE M

Z-Serrated Conical Washers Type M — A Z-serrated conical washer combines two locking mechanisms in a single component - a conical spring profile, similar in principle to DIN 6796, that stores preload as the joint is tightened, plus a serrated edge that bites into the bearing face for genuine mechanical grip on top of the spring action. That combination gives it both preload retention and lock-washer-style resistance to rotation in one part, which is why it is specified where a plain conical spring washer's smooth surface is not providing quite enough anti-loosening performance on its own, but a full mechanical device like a tab washer would be more complexity than the joint needs. Type M denotes a specific size or series within the wider Z-serrated conical washer range, distinguishing it from other type/size variants offered for different bolt diameters or load ratings, so it is worth confirming the exact size range against the relevant table when specifying rather than assuming Type M covers every diameter. It sits in similar territory to a Schnorr VS type washer - both combine spring force with a mechanically engaging surface for stronger locking than a plain spring washer alone - though the specific serration pattern and construction differ between manufacturers, even where the underlying spring-plus-bite principle is shared. It is specified in general mechanical assembly and machinery subject to more than nominal vibration, where a stronger combined spring and mechanical lock is worth the modest extra cost over a plain conical spring washer. Material selection follows the usual spring-washer logic: spring steel gives the best combined spring and serration performance for demanding mechanical duty, while A2 (304-equivalent) stainless is the sensible upgrade for general outdoor or washdown environments, and A4 (316-equivalent) is worth specifying where the assembly also faces marine, coastal, or aggressive chemical exposure that would otherwise compromise both the spring action and the serrated bite over time. To choose correctly, match the bore to the fastener diameter and confirm the Type M designation against the drawing before ordering.

FAQs
How does the Z-serration improve locking performance?
The serrations dig into the fastener head or nut face and the clamped surface as the joint is tightened, adding mechanical resistance to rotation on top of the spring preload from the conical shape.

What does Type M refer to?
Type M denotes a specific size or series designation within the Z-serrated conical washer range, distinguishing it from other type or size variants; confirm the exact size range against the relevant table when quoting.

How does a Z-serrated conical washer compare to a Schnorr VS type?
Both combine spring force with a mechanically engaging surface for stronger locking than a plain spring washer alone; the specific serration pattern and construction differ between manufacturers, but the underlying principle is shared.