ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc. is a dedicated producer of electrical insulation materials and fabricated plastic components, including custom washers. Since 1948, we have provided non-metallic electrical insulating solutions for numerous industries around the world. Our 30,000 square foot facility includes an extensive fleet of advanced manufacturing machinery with cutting-edge quality control equipment to guarantee superior production from start to finish. From prototyping to cutting, machining, and finishing, our production facility can handle your project quickly and efficiently within your budget.
Our extensive selection of insulation materials and components includes a variety of nonmetallic fasteners, seals, and other electrical insulation components including custom designed shoulder washers.
What Are Shoulder Washers?
Shoulder washers, also known as insulation washers, act as an insulating seal to protect screws, rivets, wires, and other fasteners from moisture, electricity, dirt, and other potentially damaging effects of the surrounding environment. They may also act as a durable seal, electrical isolator, bumper, guide, or spacer.
Shoulder washers can be found in a broad range of industries and applications, including:
- Automotive Electrical Systems
- Electronic Equipment
- Construction Applications
- Fabrication and Manufacturing Facilities
- Indoor and Outdoor Furniture
- HVAC and Electrical Applications
- Defense and Military Equipment
- Marine Applications
Electrical insulation washers are composed of a variety of durable non-metal heat-resistant materials, such as Formex, Nomex, Fishpaper, Vulcanized Rubber, Nylon, and Teflon.
Formex Washers
Formex is a flame retardant electrical insulator made of polypropylene. It is relatively inexpensive to manufacture, and helps to protect electrical equipment from surges and electrical arcing. Its flame retardant nature allows Formex to withstand open flames and temperatures up to 115°C (239°F). Due to its highly versatile nature, Formex washers are used in numerous applications, including LED lighting, electrical power distribution, industrial equipment, and data centers.
Nomex® Washers
Nomex® is a textile material developed by DuPont to be resistant to heat and flames. It is composed of a series of ring-shaped monomer chains, which make it a particularly tough polymer for use in high heat applications such as motors, engines, generators, and electrical transformers.
Fishpaper and Vulcanized Fibre Washers
Fishpaper is lightweight and more resistant to heat and cold than comparable plastic materials, while vulcanized fibre offers flexibility, impact resistance, high tear strength and a smooth, abrasion resistant surface. Both are suitable for the manufacturing of washers for electrical insulation.
Nylon Washers
Nylon is a strong and flexible polymer with high resistance to friction, abrasion, corrosion, and high temperatures. In addition, nylon is an excellent electrical insulator and can be used to reduce vibration. This broad range of benefits makes nylon washers particularly useful in a variety of chemical, industrial, mechanical, electrical, and outdoor applications.
Teflon™ Washers
Teflon™, or PTFE, is another heat- and chemical-resistant material, and has the added benefit of being resistant to water and oil. It exhibits extremely low friction and is valued for its exceptional durability. Teflon washers are particularly useful for sealing, alignment, load distribution, and spacers in a variety of applications.
Fabrication Services Available
In addition to our custom manufacturing capabilities, we stock a broad range of electrical insulation components and materials for your own fabrication needs. If we don’t have the part you need, we are fully equipped to produce custom non-metal components to your specifications. Our highly knowledgeable and experienced staff is dedicated to producing accurate components within stringent tolerances for a variety of applications and industries. Our 30,000 sq. ft. facility is equipped to create custom designed washers and other electrical insulation components using the following techniques:
- Die Cutting and Stamping
- Laser and Digital Cutting
- Slitting and Shearing
- CNC Turning and Milling
- Lamination
Contact Us for Custom Washers
For more than 70 years, ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc. has been dedicated to producing quality nonmetallic electric insulation products and components for industries ranging from manufacturing facilities to musical instruments. Whether you need small-scale prototyping and sample production or a full run, ESPE has the equipment and knowledge to complete your project with the utmost speed and accuracy. Our highly experienced team of designers and manufacturers are available to help you from the initial design process through final production. For more information about our excellent custom manufacturing services and fabrication capabilities, contact us today or request a quote.
