Precision Metal Shims
Metal shims are thin materials used to fill gaps between surfaces in certain types of devices. These helpful little objects prevent vibrations and unnecessary movement between aligned parts. Frequently utilized in many manufacturing sectors in the creation of high-precision equipment, thin metal shims provide a number of production benefits, such as:
- Extending product lifespans – By reducing vibrations and absorbing mechanical impacts, metal shims enable devices to enjoy a longer lifecycle before needing to be repaired or replaced.
- Increased flexibility in tolerance requirements – Incorporating metal shims into the design of a device helps manufacturers more easily meet tolerance requirements.
- Faster production speeds – Thin metal shims shorten overall production times by permitting manufacturers to dispense with the extremely precise machining that would otherwise be necessary to ensure proper device functionality.
Metal shims generally range in thickness from 0.010mm(.04”) to 1.6mm(0.064”). They can be made from a variety of metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, copper, brass, titanium, and carbon steel. Inexpensive to manufacture and easy to implement, metal shims can significantly enhance the viability of a product in a cost-effective manner.
Why UWE, Inc.?
United Western Enterprises has been a leader in manufacturing thin chemically etched metal parts since we launched our company back in 1969. We carefully apply the knowledge gained from our years of experience in acid etching metals to the task of creating first-in-class precision metal shims for clients across a wide spectrum of industries.
Our expertise with chemical etching stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials allows us to produce highly precise custom shims. Chemical etching enjoys many benefits over competing methods of manufacturing parts.
One important advantage of photo etching on metal is that the process does not inflict thermal or mechanical stresses on the material. This prevents metal burrs from developing. Burr-free surfaces are essential for shims, as the presence of rough edges can cause friction or otherwise interfere with the functioning of these products.
Furthermore, photo chemical etching can be used to craft products of virtually any level of complexity. A shim with a complicated, non-standard design can be manufactured as easily as a simple, ordinary shim.
Our dedication to quality has made us one of the leading metal shim manufacturers in the U.S. In addition to producing custom shims, shim washers, and related products, UWE, Inc., manufactures a broad range of other photo etched parts, such as EMI and RFI shielding, apertures, covers, lids, springs, and encoder disks.
Industries Served
United Western Enterprises manufactures high-quality precision custom shims for clients in the following industries:
Our photo chemical etching solutions are always customized to accommodate the particular needs of the client. Feel free to contact UWE, Inc., so we can discuss your manufacturing requirements.
Contact Us Today
UWE, Inc., is ready and able to help with your custom metal shims project. An AS 9100D / ISO 9001:2015 Certified Company, we operate out of a 21,000-square-foot building located in Camarillo, California. A free quote is available.