Alignment Shims

Ray Shim / Packing Shim / Alignment Shims

Here at Stephens Gaskets one of our specialties is the manufacturing and supplying of carefully formed, top quality alignment shims. Also known as slotted shim, horseshoe shim, ray shim and packing shim, they are produced to suit all of your needs and requirements and can be custom made to order.

Why Are Alignment Shims So Important For You And Your Machinery?

Essentially, an alignment shim is a washer, or small, thin piece of appropriately chosen material designed to make parts fit more accurately. Additionally, it helps to keep different components of a machine aligned. Therefore, reducing wear, keeps things stable as well as, allows a machine to function to the best of its ability. So, when parts are aligned, machines run more smoothly.

Improving The Lifespan

By using an alignment shim or washer, buzzing or vibration is decreased significantly and parts don’t knock together or rub against each other. Consequently, this vastly improves the lifespan of the machine, the machinery works faster and better and you have peace of mind that everything is working effectively.

Common Uses of Alignment Shims

Alignment shims are regularly used in the automotive industry with one example being when you change the camber or caster of your car; here you might find that you car’s wheels have misaligned over time.

This happens in any machine when it is used often and it is something to keep an eye on as misalignment can cause significant problems if left unchecked. When this happens in a car or any machine, an alignment shim can be inserted into the appropriate place in order to help reduce metal distortion and warping.

They are also commonly used in assembly and weld fixtures to assist with general alignment and accuracy.

High Quality Shims

Stephens Gaskets produce and supply high quality alignment shims in a wide range of sizes, from an equally wide range of different materials. These range from metals like brass and aluminium for heavy duty usage, and rubber, plastic, leather and felt for other uses.

Additionally, we also make bespoke alignment shim designs for more specific uses. As well, we can use our precision cutting techniques to ensure you get the best possible fit.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch on 0121 544 5808 OR contact us online! You can talk through your needs with one of our highly experienced, dedicated workforce. They’ll be happy to discuss your bespoke alignment shims requirements and help you come to a decision.