A shim is a thin and often tapered or wedged piece of material, used to fill small gaps or spaces between objects. Shims are typically used in order to support, adjust for better fit, or provide a level surface. Shims may also be used as spacers to fill gaps between parts subject to wear.
1. How to make and use a Metal Shim
A shim is a thin and often tapered or wedged piece of material, used to fill small gaps or spaces
between objects. Shims are typically used in order to support, adjust for better fit, or provide a
level surface. Shims may also be used as spacers to fill gaps between parts subject to wear.
Many materials make suitable shim stock, or base material, depending on the context: wood,
stone, plastic, metal, or even paper.
Shim
You can make shims from many different types of metals. Metals such as: Steel, Stainless Steel
or even Aluminum. Often time Shims are made using die machines which use lasers to then cut
your shims. For those at home trying to make a shim quickly using an empty soda can also an
excellent choice.
You begin by using a scissors and cutting the top and bottom all the way the can off. To
maximize the metal you have to work with, try to avoid cutting too much into the flat part of the
can’s side. Take your time when cutting the shims. The straighter and smoother your cuts, the
better your shims will work.
You’ll also be able to make more shims per can if you’re careful with your cuts. Cut a straight
vertical line down the side of the can. Try to make the cut as straight as possible––many cans
have a “seam” that you can use as a guide. You want to be able to flatten out the piece of metal
into a rectangle.
Cut the metal rectangle in half with a line running the long way of the rectangle. Divide the
metal into two long strips. Cut the strips into squares. You should be able to make four or five
squares, each about 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5cm) on each side. Make sure the edges are smooth and
straight.
Cut an M-shaped design on half of the square. Aim to create the point of the shim by cutting out
two humps a little bit in from each side of metal (see picture). Try to make the cuts as smooth as
possible, and try to get rounded humps, as opposed to pointed triangles. Fold the uncut part in
half.
2. The fold should bring it down just above the humps of the “M”. This will be the handle. Fold the
outside flaps of the M up over the piece you just folded down. Bend the flaps back and away
from you, over the handle piece.
That is how to make a shim using Aluminum.
For over 100 years, Phoenix Specialty has produced quality part for the following industries,
Aerospace, Agriculture, Automotive, Building Products, Compressors, Consumer Products,
Distribution, Electrical, Electronics, Energy, Machinery & Process Equipment, Medical, Motors,
and Pump, Components such as Washers, Shims and Precision Stampings.
