In a recent project, we supported a customer with a set of custom circular shims designed to solve a common challenge in machine mounting: ensuring precise alignment while maintaining compatibility with existing hardware
The Challenge
The customer was upgrading part of a manufacturing system and needed to remount machinery onto an existing base. However, slight variations in surface height and flatness were causing alignment issues. When mounting machinery to an existing base, dimensional variation between parts can result in small but significant gaps. These gaps, often due to manufacturing tolerances, surface irregularities, or accumulated wear can lead to uneven loading, vibration, and long-term stress on the equipment.
The original equipment had specific bolt hole patterns and had to line up perfectly with these mounting points to avoid reworking the entire setup.
The Solution
We produced laser-cut circular shims using high-grade stainless steel, precision-cut to match the original part’s bolt hole pattern and outer dimensions. The key requirements were:
- Tight tolerances on thickness to maintain level mounting
- Accurate alignment with the existing part to avoid interference
- Burr-free edges and consistent flatness for secure seating under load
Laser cutting proved ideal for this application. It allowed us to match the hole layout exactly, hold tight tolerances on both ID/OD and thickness, and deliver a clean finish with minimal post-processing without the need for bespoke tooling.
The Result
The custom shims fit seamlessly with the existing setup, eliminating the need for rework or modification. Installation was quick, and the alignment issue was resolved without affecting machine performance or downtime.
Whether it’s for machine levelling, spacing, or vibration isolation, laser-cut shims provide a fast, repeatable way to fine-tune equipment installation.
Need precision-cut shims for your next project?
We can laser cut stainless, brass, copper, and other materials to your exact spec – hole patterns included.