Sheets and slotted shims cover many jobs, but some machines need a plate with a specific outline, bolt holes and slots. Knowing how to specify one keeps quotes accurate and avoids rework. This guide explains how to move from shim stock UAE buyers purchase by the sheet to a custom shim plate cut to your drawing.
When Sheet Stock Is Not Enough
Genesis-MFG supplies shim stock as sheets and rolls of precision-thickness metal, intended for cutting shims on site. That works when you need simple pieces and have the time to cut them. Pre-cut slotted shims come in standard sizes and thicknesses, with a U-shaped slot so they slide around bolts without removing the equipment. Laminated shims peel to adjust thickness on site.
Custom shim plates are the next step when an outline, hole pattern or slot layout is specific to your equipment. They are cut to your drawing by laser, waterjet or CNC, with holes, slots and any outline. Materials include stainless steel 304 and 316 for corrosion resistance, carbon or spring steel for general machinery alignment, and brass, which is non-sparking and easy to cut. Special alloys can be made on request. Decide whether your job is a sheet, a slotted shim or a plate before you ask for a quote.
What a Shim Plate Drawing Needs
Genesis-MFG says you can send a drawing, a sample or the dimensions. A drawing gives the most precise result, so include:
- Outline and overall size
- Thickness and material
- Hole pattern and slot positions
- Quantity
- Any tolerance that matters
For file formats, its CNC guide prefers 3D files in STEP, IGES or XT and 2D drawings in PDF with tolerances and dimensions. It also asks you to note detailed requirements on the design before uploading CAD files. Thickness ranges depend on the material, so ask the supplier to confirm available thicknesses in writing before you finalize the drawing for shim stock orders.
How the Cutting Method Is Chosen
Genesis-MFG says it cuts shims by laser, waterjet or CNC, depending on the material and the tolerance. Tell the shop your tolerance and let it recommend the method. For context, the CNC guide says a typical CNC machine holds ±0.005 in. (0.13 mm), and precision machining can reach ±0.002 in. (0.051 mm) down to ±0.0002 in. (0.005 mm), depending on material and geometry.
Shims often sit next to machined parts such as housings and brackets. If your assembly needs both, CNC machining services UAE shops provide can make those parts from a blueprint with CAD or CAM programs, a list of materials, and quantity and finish requests. The CNC guide’s rule of thumb is that a cylindrical part suits a lathe, while parts with different geometries call for milling, drilling and wire EDM. Sending the shim plate drawing together with the part drawings keeps the dimensions aligned.
Finishing, Marking and Delivery
Every custom shim is deburred so it sits flat, and the thickness is marked for easy identification, which helps when several sizes are on a bench. Genesis-MFG makes any quantity, from a single shim to large orders for shutdowns, and says urgent orders for shutdowns and breakdowns can be prioritised.
Before you order shim stock UAE suppliers offer, ask for:
- ISO 9001-certified quality management
- Material certificates on request
- Delivery from Sharjah to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and across the UAE
Local stock and production mean you are not waiting on imports, and exports go to the wider MENA region. Keep the approved drawing and certificate together so repeat orders start from known specifications.
Conclusion
Decide between sheets, slotted shims and custom plates, send a clear drawing and ask how the cutting method suits your tolerance. For the machined parts around the shim, compare CNC machining services UAE providers on the same basis. Genesis-MFG’s CNC precision machining page explains its processes and quote requirements, and a drawing is enough to request a quote.
FAQs
1. What can I send to order a custom shim?
A drawing, a sample or the dimensions. Genesis-MFG makes custom shims in any outline, with holes and slots.
2. How are custom shims cut?
By laser, waterjet or CNC, depending on the material and the tolerance.
3. Does Genesis-MFG offer CNC machining services UAE customers can pair with shims?
Yes. Its CNC precision machining covers milling, turning, drilling and wire EDM, with quotes based on your CAD or CAM blueprint.
4. Can urgent orders be prioritised?
Genesis-MFG says urgent orders for shutdowns and breakdowns can be prioritised.