Plastic components have become an important element in modern-day plane construction. Since World War II, plastic aviation components have been making planes lighter, more durable, and more fuel-efficient by replacing critical rubber parts. Nylon washers, in particular, work to evenly distribute pressure from a nut or bolt, protecting the surface and reducing the risk of vibration-related damage and loosened fasteners. These abilities make Nylon washers a popular choice in many industries, especially aerospace.
What Are the Various Types of Nylon Used and Why?
Nylon washers are composed of several types of Nylon, including Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6, Nylon MDS, and Nylatron, each of which have beneficial characteristics that aid in the reliable operation of aerospace equipment. These characteristics include chemical resistance, non-flammability, durability, and abrasion resistance.
Nylatron and Nylon 6/6 are popularly used due to their self-lubricating characteristics, which make installation and maintenance simple. They are also highly resistant to heat-related damage, which makes them ideal for use in extreme environments or near engines.
Compared to other materials, these high-performance engineering plastics are low-density and have a light enough weight to make them valuable additions to flying equipment and vehicles. Depending on the exact materials used, product engineers can expect nylon washers to have half the density of comparable glass or aluminum pieces and 1/6th the density of steel.
What Are the Key Aerospace Applications for Nylon Washers?
Plastics have replaced many metal components in aerospace applications. Engineers and designers can replace virtually any small metal piece with plastic alternatives. Plastic parts reduce the overall weight of equipment and provide greater design flexibility, as they can be produced through a wide variety of fabrication methods and don’t have the same design constraints as metal or rubber workpieces. Plastics are also easier to assemble and install, which further reduces labor costs and assembly errors.
Some of the most popular applications for Nylon components include light covers, piping systems, tubing, trolleys, and support handles. Nylon washers, in particular, are commonly found in the following aerospace applications:
- Airframes
- Avionics
- Engine components
- Flight control systems
- Hydraulics
- Landing Gear
- Pneumatics
- And other aeronautic assemblies
Choosing Your Nylon Washers With New Process Fibre
New Process Fibre has been fabricating high-quality washers and other industrial components since 1927. Since then, we have grown to become one of the most trusted names in nylon fabrication and manufacturing for the aerospace and military industries. Our facility uses state-of-the-art equipment for expert in-house production, and we can create both standard and custom washers. Our capabilities include:
- Production of nylon materials that meet or exceed all applicable LP-410 standards
- Production of nylon washers with a wide variety of colors to signify different materials, safety or operational labeling, and distinct branding
- Fast in-house production of both short and high-volume runs
- In-house die-set construction
Choose New Process Fibre for High-Quality Nylon Washers
Nylon washers offer the aerospace industry greater design freedom, mechanical reliability, fuel efficiency, and many other benefits. At New Process Fibre, we create standard and custom nylon washers to meet our clients’ unique needs. Our selection includes:
- Black and color nylon washers
- Heat-resistant washers
- Nylon 6 washers
- Nylon 6/6 washers
- Nylon MDS washers
- Nylatron washers
To learn more about our nylon washers, please visit this page. For more information about our products and services, or to get started on your nylon washer solution, contact us today.