Finding the right washer for your project can be surprisingly complex. This guide focuses specifically on 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm copper washers, exploring their properties, applications, and where to potentially source them. We'll also address common questions surrounding these specialized components.
What are 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm Copper Washers?
These washers are precisely engineered components with a specific dimension:
- 14 mm: Outer Diameter (OD) – This is the measurement across the widest part of the washer.
- 18 mm: Inner Diameter (ID) – This is the diameter of the hole in the center of the washer.
- 1.5 mm: Thickness – This refers to the washer's height or depth.
The material, copper, offers several advantages including excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, good corrosion resistance, and malleability (ability to be easily shaped). This makes them suitable for a variety of applications where these properties are crucial.
What are the applications of 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm copper washers?
The specific dimensions of a 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm copper washer suggest its use in applications requiring a relatively large bore (the hole) and a substantial surface area for sealing or electrical conductivity. These could include:
- Electrical connections: Copper's high conductivity makes it ideal for applications where efficient current transfer is needed. These washers could be used as spacers or grounding elements in electrical assemblies.
- Plumbing or fluid systems: While less common for this size, in certain specialized plumbing scenarios where a large bore is needed, they might act as sealing washers or spacers. However, dedicated plumbing washers are usually designed with specific features for better sealing.
- Industrial machinery: Depending on the application, these washers could function as shims for adjusting components or as part of a more complex assembly.
- Heat sinks: Copper's thermal conductivity could make these washers useful in heat dissipation applications, though dedicated heat sink designs would generally be more effective.
Where can I find 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm copper washers?
Unfortunately, finding this specific size might require some searching. Large industrial suppliers specializing in metal components are the most likely source. Online searches targeting "industrial hardware suppliers," "metal stamping suppliers," or "custom washers" will likely yield promising results. You may need to contact suppliers directly to inquire about availability and custom orders.
Are there alternative sizes available?
Yes, copper washers are available in a wide range of sizes. If you can't find the exact 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm dimensions, you should explore slightly larger or smaller alternatives. Consider the specific requirements of your application to determine the acceptable tolerances.
What is the difference between copper and other washer materials?
The choice of washer material depends heavily on the application's needs. Compared to other materials like steel, aluminum, or nylon:
- Steel: Offers higher strength and durability but lower conductivity.
- Aluminum: Lighter and offers good conductivity, but may not be as durable as steel or copper.
- Nylon: Excellent for insulation and vibration damping, but offers no electrical conductivity.
Copper strikes a balance between conductivity, corrosion resistance, and malleability, making it suitable for various scenarios.
What are the copper washer's mechanical properties?
The mechanical properties (tensile strength, yield strength, etc.) will depend on the specific copper alloy used. This information should be obtained from the supplier's specifications for the particular batch of washers.
This guide provides a solid overview of 14 x 18 x 1.5 mm copper washers. Remember that sourcing these may require some research and contact with specialist suppliers. Always ensure the chosen washer meets the exact requirements of your application.
