A shim that is right on its own drawing can still fail if the part beside it was made to a different standard. That is why the best results come when a custom shim manufacturer and the machine shop work from matching specifications, ideally under one roof. This guide shows how to line up the two drawings before you request quotes.
Why Mating Parts Need One Specification Language
Genesis-MFG makes precision-engineered sealing components and thin spacers, so its shims usually sit between other parts. The shim page lists the benefits of custom shims over off-the-shelf ones: precise fit, compatibility with unique application requirements, better performance, a lower risk of leaks or failures, and savings from eliminating waste and downtime. A precise fit depends on both surfaces of the joint, not only the shim.
That is where CNC machining services UAE buyers use for the neighboring part come in. If the shim and the part come from different suppliers with different assumptions about tolerance, the fit becomes a negotiation. Starting with one coordinated set of numbers avoids it.
Compare Tolerances Side by Side
Start with the figures each page publishes. Genesis-MFG lists ±0.005 in. as the tolerance for its custom metal shims. For machined parts, a typical CNC machine holds ±0.005 in. (0.13 mm), which is its standard for both prototypes and full production, while precision machining can reach ±0.002 in. (0.051 mm) down to ±0.0002 in. (0.005 mm). Those standard numbers line up, which makes a shim and a machined part from the same supplier easier to reconcile.
Tighter machining is available but should be requested only where needed. Genesis-MFG says its CNC work often achieves greater accuracy depending on material and geometry, and it asks you to note every requirement on the design before uploading CAD files. Ask your shim manufacturer to confirm in writing which dimensions its ±0.005 in. applies to, then mark the same dimensions on the mating part’s drawing.
Specify What Each Part Needs
For the shim, decide these details:
- Material: stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass or titanium
- Thickness: 0.001 in. to 0.250 in. (0.025 mm to 6.35 mm)
- Size: from the smallest to large shims, up to 144 inches in length and width
- Shape: square, rectangular, circular or other custom shapes
- Finish: plain, coated or plated
For the machined part, Genesis-MFG asks for:
- A blueprint with CAD or CAM programs
- The list of materials, the quantity and finish requests, if needed
Write both lists side by side and mismatches show up before anything is cut, such as a coated shim against a housing whose finish is unspecified. It is a small habit that pays off when you request CNC machining services UAE quotes.
Choose the Process and Send One Package
Genesis-MFG cuts shims by waterjet and laser, with engineering support, CAD design and computer-controlled reverse engineering guiding development. Prototypes are available in low-volume and short-production quantities, so you can test the stack before ordering more. Shims are checked for material, dimensions and surface finish.
Machined parts follow a geometry rule. A cylindrical part suits a CNC lathe, while complex parts with varied geometry suit milling, with drilling and wire EDM covering holes and intricate profiles. For 3D files the preference is STEP, IGES or XT, and for 2D drawings it is PDF with tolerances and dimensions. Sending the shim drawing and the machined-part files together to one custom shim manufacturer that also machines parts keeps both on the same schedule and the same set of numbers.
Conclusion
Match tolerances, write the shim and part specifications side by side and send one coordinated package. For the machined side, compare CNC machining services UAE suppliers on the same published numbers. Genesis-MFG’s CNC precision machining page explains its processes, tolerances and file requirements, and a drawing is enough to start a conversation.
FAQs
1. What tolerance applies to custom metal shims?
Genesis-MFG lists ±0.005 in., with lengths and widths up to 144 inches.
2. What tolerance can CNC machining reach?
A typical CNC machine holds ±0.005 in. (0.13 mm). Precision machining can reach ±0.002 in. (0.051 mm) down to ±0.0002 in. (0.005 mm).
3. What does a machining quote need?
A blueprint with CAD or CAM programs, plus material details, quantity and finish requests. Preferred files are STEP, IGES or XT for 3D and PDF for 2D drawings.
4. Are shim prototypes available?
Yes. Prototypes are available in low-volume and short-production quantities.