What is a characteristic of washers?

Washers play a critical role in fastening applications by distributing loads, reducing friction, and minimizing wear. It is important that washers have holes slightly larger than their fasteners. This design allows for the proper alignment of the fastener, facilitating installation and providing the necessary movement or flexibility during use.

The larger hole helps ensure that the washer can accommodate any slight misalignments or variations in the diameter of the fastener, which is essential in preventing damage to the components being fastened and ensuring a secure connection. This characteristic is vital for maintaining the integrity of the assembly and ensuring that the fastener can be adequately tightened without causing undue stress on the washer or the materials it is securing.

In contrast, while some washers can be made from various materials including rubber, they are not limited to one type of material only. Additionally, washers are not used solely for aesthetic purposes; their primary function is to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the fastening system. Lastly, while chemical resistance may be a necessary feature for some applications, it is not a universal requirement for all washers, as the proper material selection depends on the specific environment and application.