Washer

Definition and Structure

A washer is a ring-shaped metal component placed mainly on the back side of an eyelet washer. By passing the tubular part of the eyelet washer through the washer hole and setting it, the textile is sandwiched between the front-side eyelet washer and the back-side washer, distributing the load along the edge of the hole.

In general, eyelet washers and washers are designed as a matched specification. They are not used by themselves; it is important to confirm the corresponding eyelet washer, setting tool, and installation method as a set.

• Front side: the eyelet washer that covers the edge of the hole and also serves as a design element
• Back side: the washer that receives and reinforces the textile
• Joint area: the setting part that flares and fixes the tubular part of the eyelet washer

How to Read Materials and Sizes

Washers are made from metals such as brass, iron, and stainless steel, and the surface may be finished with plating or paint. The material and surface treatment are related not only to appearance, but also to corrosion resistance, compatibility with metal detectors, and consideration for products that come into contact with the skin.

In many cases, sizes are indicated based on the matching eyelet washer size or inner diameter. However, even with the same nominal size, the outer diameter, thickness, leg shape, and compatible setting tool may differ, so verification against drawings or the actual item is necessary.

• Inner diameter: a dimension related to fit with the cord or tubular part of the eyelet washer
• Outer diameter: a dimension related to the area that presses the textile and how it looks
• Thickness: a dimension related to ease of setting and stability of the finished result

Installation Method and Equipment

During installation, make a pilot hole in the textile, insert the eyelet washer from the front side, and place the washer on the back side. Then apply pressure with a hand press or press machine fitted with the corresponding setting tool, and flare the tubular part of the eyelet washer evenly to set it.

If the dimensions or shape of the setting tool do not match, it can lead to defects such as the washer tilting, the tubular part cracking, or insufficient setting. Before mass production, carry out trial setting with the actual textile and interlining layered together, and confirm the front and back finish as well as holding strength.

• Confirm the matched specification of the eyelet washer and washer
• Confirm compatibility between the press and the setting tool to be used
• Confirm the position and diameter of the pilot hole
• After trial setting, check the tensile and rotational condition

Main Applications and Compatibility with Textiles

Eyelet washers with washers are used for openings for threading cords or cords through, ventilation holes, and decorative holes that also serve as reinforcement. They may be used in products where force tends to be applied around the hole, such as outerwear, pants, denim, bags, and workwear.

With lightweight fabrics, highly stretchable knits, and fabrics with a coarse weave structure, the textile may tear or ripple even when a washer is used. If necessary, reinforce the mounting area with fusible interlining or similar material, and select a leg length and washer diameter suited to the fabric thickness.

Points of Caution and Differences from Similar Terms

A washer is a component of an eyelet washer assembly, and its role differs from the visible eyelet washer on the front side. Likewise, a button seal used to protect textile in press fasteners and similar parts is also a reinforcement component, but the matching hardware, shape, and purpose are different. In specifications, indicate not only the part name but also the corresponding mating part.

Moisture, sweat, washing, and chemicals may cause metal to rust or discolor. For plated items, also check for changes caused by friction. For products that require metal detector compliance, confirm whether they are compatible, and if nickel considerations are required, also confirm the scope of nickel-free specifications.

• Eyelet washer: the tubular metal fitting visible on the front side
• Washer: the ring-shaped part on the back side of the eyelet washer that receives the textile
• Button seal: a part mainly used with a different type of fastener to protect the textile

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a washer be used without an eyelet washer?

A washer is generally used together with an eyelet washer and is not suitable for reinforcing a hole by itself. It functions by passing the tubular part of the eyelet washer through the washer and setting it. Confirm the specifications of the eyelet washer and washer you use, together with tool compatibility.

What should be noted when attaching an eyelet washer with a washer to thin fabric?

With thin fabric, the hole may widen under pressure during setting, or the area around the hole may tear during use. Add reinforcement such as fusible interlining to the back side of the mounting area, and avoid oversized washers or excessive leg length. Check the appearance, tensile strength, and fabric rippling through trial setting.

Does nickel-free prevent discoloration and rust?

Nickel-free indicates a specification that mainly takes nickel use into consideration, and does not mean that all discoloration and rust will be prevented. Durability varies depending on the type of metal, surface treatment, usage environment, washing conditions, and other factors, so evaluation suited to the product conditions is necessary.