Washers are thin plates, typically disk-shaped, with a hole in the center, used to distribute the load of a threaded fastener such as a bolt or nut. They are placed between the fastener and the surface of the material being fastened to prevent damage to the material and to ensure a more even distribution of the load.Washers are typically made from metal or plastic, with metal washers being more common in industrial applications due to their durability and strength.