Shim Stock

Shim stock is thin, flat material (metal or synthetic) used to fill gaps, align parts, adjust tolerances, and provide spacing or shims in assemblies and machinery. Common uses include aligning bearings, door hardware, gears, and precision fixtures

Select material based on corrosion resistance and compressibility—stainless steel for durability and rust resistance, brass or copper for softer, non-sparking applications, and plastic or mylar for electrical insulation. Choose thickness to match the gap or tolerance you need, typically available in thousandths of an inch (e.g., 0.001–0.020") or hundredths of a millimeter; stack multiple layers if necessary

Shim stock is commonly sold in very thin gauges, often from about 0.001" up to 0.020" (0.025 mm to 0.5 mm) and sometimes thicker. Manufacturer tolerances vary, so check spec sheets for nominal thickness and tolerance (often ±0.0002" to ±0.001")

Use metal snips, a shear, a hobby knife for thin plastics, or a precision guillotine for cleaner edges; clamp material and mark layout before cutting. For fine fitting, file or sand edges and use a caliper or feeler gauge to verify thickness after cutting. Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid sharp edges

Material and thickness determine suitability: stainless steel and some specialty alloys withstand higher temperatures and loads, while softer metals and plastics are suitable for light loads and lower temperatures. Always consult material datasheets for temperature, yield strength, and creep properties for critical applications

Choose corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or apply protective coatings (e.g., plating or oil) where compatible; avoid dissimilar metal contact that can cause galvanic corrosion. For wear reduction, use harder alloys or place a thin insulating layer between mating surfaces

Shim stock prices vary by material, thickness, and quantity; expect budget options under $50 for small packs and higher costs for larger rolls or specialty alloys. Compare per-unit area or per-thickness pricing when buying multiple sizes or larger quantities