Metal Strips Metal Shim Stock Stainless Steel Sheet Metal Gap Filler Trim Strip

Measure the gap you need to fill with a feeler gauge set. Select the shim thickness that matches or, for stacked shimming, choose two thinner strips whose combined measurement equals your target clearance. For machinery leveling, start with a thicker strip (0.2 mm or above) and work down to finer increments as you approach the final tolerance.

Yes. Stainless steel shim strips stack cleanly because the rolled surface is flat and consistent. Simply layer the strips until you reach the combined thickness you need. For critical alignments, verify the stacked total with a micrometer before final assembly.

304 stainless steel offers strong resistance to atmospheric corrosion, moisture, and many mild chemicals. It performs well in outdoor, marine-adjacent, and humid indoor environments. For highly aggressive chemical or saltwater immersion applications, 316 stainless steel would be a more appropriate choice.

For thinner gauges (0.01 mm – 0.1 mm), score the strip firmly with a utility knife against a steel straightedge and snap cleanly. For thicker gauges (0.2 mm and above), use aviation-style metal shears or a bench-mounted nibbler for a straight, controlled cut. Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling freshly cut edges.

Match the width to the bearing surface or gap you are filling. For narrow slots, door hinges, or single-bolt flanges, 100 mm is typically sufficient. For machine bases, wide bearing housings, or applications where the shim must span a larger footprint, 200 mm or 300 mm reduces the need to place strips side by side.

Stainless steel shim stock is compatible with most metal assemblies. Note that in direct contact with aluminum in wet environments, galvanic corrosion is possible over time; use an isolating barrier or sealant if this is a concern. Contact with cast iron or mild steel in dry conditions is generally unproblematic.

Yes. The thin gauges (0.01 mm – 0.1 mm) are well suited for shimming body panels, door gaps, and trim strips where a precise, corrosion-resistant spacer is needed. The strips can be cut to shape and, if needed, bent gently around curves using a metal brake or by hand for very thin gauges.