Getting the Right Fit with Quality Aircraft Shims
In aerospace manufacturing, even the slightest misalignment can create ripple effects that compromise performance, increase wear, and threaten safety. Minor deviations in alignment can result in vibration, structural fatigue, or inefficiencies that reduce aircraft reliability. That’s why engineers rely on simple but critical components: aircraft shims.
Aircraft shims are thin pieces of material used to fill gaps in bolted joints. Usually, gaps wider than 1 mm will require a precisely fitted shim, and they’re usually applied by hand. Overall, they’re crucial for compensating for manufacturing variances and optimizing the efficiency of aerospace assemblies. Below, we’re highlighting the different types of aircraft shims and how to get the right solutions for your needs.
Types of Aircraft Shims
There are a few types of aerospace shims; the one you choose will depend on your specific application. From wing structures and engine mounts to gear assemblies, aircraft shims are used to guarantee a precise, uniform fit.
- Laminated shims: These shims are used to adjust clearances during the assembly of aerospace parts. They’re constructed of multiple layers that can be peeled away, making them ideal for achieving an exact thickness. They allow manufacturers to make fine adjustments on the fly, ensuring smooth assembly without the need for custom tooling or rework.
- Solid shims: Solid shims are designed for permanent, high-strength applications. These one-piece shims are used where there is no need for future adjustments. Aerospace manufacturers generally rely on this option for critical components like landing gear systems, engine mounts, and structural joints.
- Tapered shims: Tapered shims are used in situations where components have complex geometries or rest on uneven surfaces. These shims are designed to fill gaps with a gradually changing thickness, allowing for a snug fit in areas where uniform shims may not be sufficient. These shims are often used in airframe assemblies, particularly in sections of the fuselage or wing structures.
Why Precision Matters
Aircraft shims may be small, but they’re far from insignificant. Their performance directly affects the fit and function of the components they support. That’s why manufacturers and aerospace engineers rely on tight tolerance controls, certified materials, and custom fabrication capabilities when sourcing shims for an aircraft. For example, a poorly fitted shim can lead to:
- Load imbalance, causing fatigue cracks over time
- Increased vibration, which may lead to premature wear or discomfort
- Misalignment, potentially throwing off entire assemblies like landing gear retraction systems
- Assembly delays if the right shim isn’t available when needed
Technicians must be able to trust that a shim will fit exactly as specified, especially in mission-critical areas of the aircraft. That’s why aerospace companies often invest in high-precision contract manufacturing services to ensure every part meets industry and customer specifications.
Choosing the Right Aircraft Shim Partner
No matter which type of shim you need, you must work with a partner who understands the aerospace industry’s exacting requirements. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a shim manufacturer:
- Material options: Can they source and machine aerospace-grade metals for your application?
- Precision tolerance capabilities: Can they meet tight dimensional tolerances and document quality compliance?
- Certifications: Are they AS9100 or ISO 9001 certified to meet aerospace quality standards?
- Volume flexibility: Can they handle both small-batch runs and full production volumes?
Work with OGS Industries for Your Aerospace Shims
When precision and reliability are non-negotiable, aerospace OEMs turn to OGS. With decades of experience in high-performance manufacturing, we’ve built a reputation for innovation, quality, and a customer-first approach that sets us apart in the aerospace industry.
From concept to delivery, OGS offers a seamless, full-service solution. Our in-house design support, fabrication capabilities, and rigorous quality assurance processes mean you get everything you need under one roof — saving time and ensuring consistency. In particular, our advanced CNC machining capabilities and expertise in aerospace-grade materials ensure every part meets the tightest tolerances and highest performance expectations.
Ready to partner with a manufacturer that understands the demands of the aerospace industry? Contact our team today to learn how we can deliver precision parts tailored to your needs.
