Why You Should Choose Brass Shims

When you are considering what type of shim you may require for your project, there are generally three factors to consider: the shape, thickness, and type of material you will need for your shim. At Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing, we can assist you in determining all three. The shape you need will depend upon the function of the shim and the size of the pieces it will be against, while the thickness will usually depend upon the size of the space the shim will fill.

The material you will need depends upon the material used for the nearby pieces, the required durability, and the environment the shim will be used in. Our company offers over 300 raw materials to choose from for your shim. One material you may be considering is brass. Here are five reasons why a brass shim may be the best choice for your project.

1. High Malleability

Shims are a common tool for many industries, particularly in machinery. You will commonly see them used for filling gaps or creating a level surface, creating more accurate alignment, or for wear compensation to assist in reducing the frequency for replacement for more expensive pieces.

In order to act as a space filler or to create better alignment, the shim will usually need to be made to a specific size and thickness. Brass works well in this area, as it is a softer metal with a low melting point. It is more malleable than bronze and zinc, and is easy to cast.

2. Low Friction

Because it is a softer metal, brass has a low friction rate. This makes it a good choice for areas where it is important that sparking does not occur, such as around explosive gases. It is also a great conductor of heat and electricity. Although it is a soft metal, it is stronger and harder than copper. How strong the metal is, however, will depend upon the copper and zinc content within the brass.

3. Corrosion Resistance

Brass is often used for piping, tubing, and in marine environments. This is due to its high resistance to corrosion. Brass also shows corrosion resistance not only to water, but also in environments where fuel, oil, kerosene, gasoline, or alcohol is present. This metal also has a strong resistance to tarnishing.

4. High Recyclability

About 90% of brass in existence has been recycled. One of the factors that makes brass a highly recyclable metal is the fact that it is not ferromagnetic. Because of its lack of magnetism, brass can generally be separated from other metals by using magnets to remove the metals that are magnetic.

5. Antimicrobial Properties

Like many copper alloys, brass has antimicrobial properties. The copper within brass assists in destroying certain bacteria and pathogens. How quickly the bacteria are destroyed depends upon the type and the medium the bacteria are located in. This makes brass a good choice for shims that may be used in areas where sterilization may be particularly important, such as in the food industry or in medical settings.

As a copper alloy, brass brings many unique properties that can be particularly well-suited for shims. You will also need to acquire the correct shape and thickness of shim for your project. Consulting experts such as those at Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing can ensure that you get the right shim, whether it is brass or one of the other many material choices our company offers.