Three-Washer Load Bearing Assembly for Galling Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The action of washers on a clamping surface can cause galling, leading to surface damage and inconsistent torque in fastener assemblies, necessitating frequent replacement and inconsistent tightening.
Innovation Solution
A load-bearing assembly comprising three washers - an innermost, an intermediate, and an outermost washer - positioned between a fastener and a clamping surface, with a locking mechanism allowing axial interconnection and rotation, effectively distributing load and preventing direct engagement, thereby reducing or eliminating galling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a single washer is used to distribute load over the clamping surface, then load distribution is improved, but galling of the clamping surface occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The single washer is divided into three separate washers (first outer washer, intermediate washer, second outer washer) that are axially stacked. Each washer independently distributes load to the clamping surfaces, reducing the contact pressure and preventing galling while maintaining effective load distribution across the joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate washer acts as a mediator between the two outer washers, providing additional load distribution and preventing direct contact between the fastener and the clamping surfaces. This intermediate element reduces friction and prevents galling by distributing the clamping force across multiple surfaces.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If washers are made rotatable with respect to each other, then galling is reduced, but device complexity increases due to locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism integrates multiple functions into a single component: it axially interconnects the three washers, prevents radial displacement, and allows rotational movement. This merging of functions reduces the need for separate components while achieving both galling prevention and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to allow the washers to rotate relative to each other while maintaining axial connection. This dynamic capability enables the washers to self-align and reduce galling through rotation, while the locking structure prevents excessive movement and maintains joint integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A load bearing assembly includes a first outer washer having an outwardly exposed annular surface for engaging a clamping surface of a fastener and a second outer washer having an annular surface outwardly exposed in an opposite direction from the outwardly exposed annular surface of the first outer washer, the outwardly exposed annular surface of the second outer washer for engaging a clamping surface of an object to which the fastener exerts a clamping force. An intermediate washer is positioned between the first outer washer and the second outer washer. A locking mechanism engages between the first and second outer washers to axially interconnect the washers together in a stacked configuration with the intermediate washer positioned between the first and second outer washers and in a manner so that the washers are rotatable with respect to one another.