Is the PC washer necessary?

[mikebai1990]

Stupid me... Yesterday I was using the white pad that came with the PC to polish out my wheels. However, when I unscrewed the pad, I completely forgot that I had the washer on there. So, now I have no idea where it is...



What exactly is the purpose of the washer? Obviously to prevent the backing plate/pad from unscrewing itself. However, does it also function to prevent excessive generated heat from transferring to the backing plate?

 

[Deep Gloss Auto Salon]

I've read that it prevents the bolt heads that are on the bottom of the BP from coming in contact with the counter weight mechanism and/or body of the pc.

 

[Ern]

I still have mine but I dont use it. Am I doing any harm?