CUSTOM METAL SHIMS
Metching makes custom metal shims and spacers in thicknesses from 0.05–2.5 mm. The outline, holes and slots are etched to your drawing. For a shim to work in an assembly, nominal thickness is only part of the specification: stock thickness tolerance, flatness and the dimensions of mating parts also need to be considered.
What Are Metal Shims?
At their core, precision metal shims are thin layers of material used as spacers between mechanical components. Their primary job is to:
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Fill Gaps: Compensate for tiny variations in manufacturing.
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Absorb Impact: Protect larger, more expensive parts from wear and tear.
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Minimize "Play": Eliminate unwanted movement or vibration within an assembly.
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Level and Align: Ensure surfaces are perfectly flush for optimal performance.
Economical & Precise Manufacturing
Traditional machining can be slow and expensive, especially for complex designs. We utilize chemical etching, a sophisticated process that offers several key advantages:
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Low-Cost Digital Tooling: Since we don't need to cut hard steel dies, we can move from your design to a finished product quickly and affordably.
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Edge and Flatness Requirements: Etching avoids the conventional cutting burr produced by punching. Flatness still needs to be specified and checked; long, thin parts can bend during handling. Identify the surfaces and dimensions that control fit in your assembly.
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Project-Specific Accuracy: Tolerances are evaluated based on material thickness, drawings and processing requirements. No single fixed tolerance is promised for all projects.
Versatility in Materials and Design
No two projects are the same, which is why we offer an expansive range of materials and thicknesses. We can supply shims flat or formed to your specific design requirements.
Capabilities at a Glance
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Thickness: 0.05–2.5 mm
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Material Types: Over 2,000 variations
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Ferrous Metals: Stainless steel (various grades), Mild steel
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Non-Ferrous: Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Nickel
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Specialty Alloys: Corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant metals
Industries We Serve
From simple spacer washers to intricate steel shims for racing engines, our components are trusted across diverse sectors. Our ability to etch "hard-to-process" metals makes us the ideal partner for industries requiring high corrosion resistance and durability in extreme environments.
Why Choose Our Custom Shims?
Send the shim drawing with the alloy, temper, nominal thickness and quantity. Identify the locating holes, contact surfaces, flatness requirement and any dimensions that control stack height. Stock thickness tolerance and etched profile tolerance are separate requirements; both need to be agreed for the part.