Bonding washer

Abstract

A bonding washer for making electrical connection between two metal pieces that are to be mechanically fastened together. The washer, to be interposed between the two metal pieces, may be constructed so as to fasten to one of the pieces before the two pieces are joined. Teeth on the washer, positioned at right angles to the plane of the washer, are forced into each of the two metal pieces when the fastener is tightened, making electrical connection between the two metal pieces.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A bonding washer for making an electrical connection between two metal pieces, comprising:
 a substantially planar carrier;   a first set of hollow, electrically conductive teeth carried by and extending away from said carrier in a first direction, each tooth of said first set having a distal edge; and   a second set of hollow, electrically conductive teeth carried by and extending away from said carrier in a second direction substantially opposite said first direction, each tooth of said second set having a distal edge,   wherein at least one tooth of said second set is substantially aligned with and electrically connected to a tooth of said first set to define at least one pair of substantially aligned,   diverging, electrically connected teeth,   
       whereby, when the metal pieces are rigidly clamped together with said at least one pair of substantially aligned, diverging, electrically connected teeth between the metal pieces, the distal edges thereof are forcibly embedded into the metal pieces to make electrical contact therewith.