.040 shim stock | What is plastic shim stock?

Exploring Plastic Shim Stock: A Guide to Understanding 040 Shim Stock

Plastic shim stock is a versatile material that plays a crucial role in various industries, offering precision and flexibility in applications where adjustments and alignments are essential. Among the different thicknesses available, 040 shim stock stands out as a reliable choice for achieving precise spacing and alignment. In this guide, we'll delve into what plastic shim stock is, its benefits, and why 040 shim stock is particularly noteworthy.

What is plastic shim stock?

Plastic shim stock is a thin, flat material typically made from polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC. It is engineered to provide accurate spacing and alignment between components in machinery, equipment, and other assemblies. Unlike metal shim stock, plastic shim stock offers advantages such as flexibility, corrosion resistance, and non-conductivity.

Benefits of Plastic Silk Stock:

1. Flexibility: Plastic shim stock is more pliable compared to metal shims, allowing for easier manipulation and installation in tight spaces or complex configurations.

2. Unlike metal shims, plastic shim stock is not susceptible to rust or corrosion, making it suitable for use in environments where moisture or chemical exposure is a concern.

3. Non-Conductivity: Plastic shim stock is non-conductive, meaning it does not conduct electricity. This property is advantageous in electrical or electronic applications where metal shims could interfere with circuits or cause shorts.

4. **Ease of Cutting and Shaping**: Plastic shim stock can be easily cut and shaped to fit specific requirements using common cutting tools, reducing installation time and effort.

Understanding 040 Shim Stock:

040 shim stock refers to a specific thickness of plastic shim stock, measuring 0.040 inches (or approximately 1.016 millimeters) thick. This thickness is ideal for applications requiring precise adjustments or alignments while maintaining sufficient structural support. Common uses of 040 shim stock include:

Precision Machinery: Aligning and spacing components in precision machinery to achieve optimal performance and functionality.

Automotive Applications: Adjusting clearances and alignments in automotive assemblies to ensure proper fit and functionality.

Aerospace Industry: Maintaining precise tolerances and alignments in aerospace components and structures for safety and performance.

In summary:

Plastic shim stock, particularly 040 shim stock, offers a reliable solution for achieving precise spacing and alignment in a wide range of applications. Its flexibility, corrosion resistance, and non-conductive properties make it a preferred choice in industries where accuracy and reliability are paramount. Whether in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or other sectors, plastic shim stock plays a vital role in ensuring the efficiency and integrity of mechanical assemblies and systems.

Incorporating 040 shim stock into your projects can streamline processes, enhance performance, and contribute to overall quality and reliability. Consider leveraging the benefits of plastic shim stock for your next application requiring precise adjustments and alignments.

TTC 44575 .040" Thick, 5" Width, Clear Plastic Shim Stock

Brand TTC

Type Shim Stock Sheet

Thickness .040"

Width 5"

Length 20"

Material Plastic

Color Clear

No. of Pieces 3

Model # 44575

Package Qty 3

Prop. 65 Yes

System of Measurement Inch

Thickness Tolerance ±10%

Weight 0.576 lbs.

Country of Origin UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

What is shim stock material? 

A shim stock is a roll of dainty check metal or foil used to make shims. Dainty check cut sheet metal might be all around as slender as 0.0005 inch (0.0127 millimeter) to consider fine situating changes. Since the material is so meager, stock can without much of a stretch be cut into custom shapes utilizing standard instruments, for example, metal shears.18 Dec 2021

What is the best shim material? 

Tempered steel is profoundly adaptable. It's solid, hard, and consumption safe. The erosion opposition comes from the expansion of chromium. Hardened steel shim stock sheets can make probably the most solid shims available.

What is the maximum shim limit

The maximum permitted thickness of shims utilized should not exceed the outer diameter of the fastening bolt or 12mm, whichever is smaller.

What is the What is the meaning of shim

a slender, frequently tightened piece of material (like wood, metal, or stone) used to occupy in space between things (concerning backing, evening out, or change of fit)

1. What is the maximum weight allowed for a shim?

Our composite shims boast an exceptional weight capacity, capable of withstanding up to 16,000 pounds of pressure. This makes them perfect for heavy-duty tasks like supporting doors, windows, and sheds.

What is shim bearing?

The main purpose of Bearing Shims is to accurately set and modify the pre-load on bearing races, ensuring the smooth and intended motion of the bearings. It is important to note that Bearing Shims differ from Thrust Washers as they are typically employed in static applications, while Thrust Washers are more commonly used in dynamic applications.

How do you cut metal shim stock?

Precise scissors can easily slice through delicate steel shim stock. Short blades are recommended for this task. Silversmith shears equipped with curved blades are useful for cutting intricate shapes in thin metal. They can be likened to miniature tin snips.

How thick is a shim layer?

Shims, also known as foils, are petite plastic strips of different thicknesses ranging from approximately 25 µm (1 mil) to about 1.5 mm (60 mils). These strips are colored and measure 3 x 8 cm (1 x 3 inches). Shims are frequently employed to replicate a coating.

What is a shim alignment?

A shim is a metal or other material fragment utilized to bridge gaps between components, effectively integrating them into the alignment.