Copper Nickel Products
Engineering Polymers
Precision Shims
Flange GuardsShim Thickness Chart: mm to Inch Conversion for Shim Stock
Short answer: shim stock is commonly supplied from 0.025 mm (0.001 in) up to about 3 mm (0.118 in). To convert, divide millimetres by 25.4 to get inches; 1 thou (mil) equals 0.0254 mm. The chart below lists the standard thicknesses we are most often asked for.
Standard shim thicknesses (mm, inch, thou)
| Millimetres | Inches | Thou (mil) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.025 mm | 0.0010 in | 1.0 thou |
| 0.05 mm | 0.0020 in | 2.0 thou |
| 0.075 mm | 0.0030 in | 3.0 thou |
| 0.1 mm | 0.0039 in | 3.9 thou |
| 0.125 mm | 0.0049 in | 4.9 thou |
| 0.15 mm | 0.0059 in | 5.9 thou |
| 0.2 mm | 0.0079 in | 7.9 thou |
| 0.25 mm | 0.0098 in | 9.8 thou |
| 0.3 mm | 0.0118 in | 11.8 thou |
| 0.4 mm | 0.0157 in | 15.7 thou |
| 0.5 mm | 0.0197 in | 19.7 thou |
| 0.6 mm | 0.0236 in | 23.6 thou |
| 0.7 mm | 0.0276 in | 27.6 thou |
| 0.8 mm | 0.0315 in | 31.5 thou |
| 0.9 mm | 0.0354 in | 35.4 thou |
| 1 mm | 0.0394 in | 39.4 thou |
| 1.2 mm | 0.0472 in | 47.2 thou |
| 1.5 mm | 0.0591 in | 59.1 thou |
| 2 mm | 0.0787 in | 78.7 thou |
| 2.5 mm | 0.0984 in | 98.4 thou |
| 3 mm | 0.1181 in | 118.1 thou |
How to pick the thickness
- Measure the gap with a feeler gauge or dial indicator, then build it up with the fewest shims possible: one thick shim is more stable than a stack of thin ones.
- For machine alignment, keep stacks to about 3–4 shims and put the thinnest in the middle of the stack.
- Use slotted pre-cut shims for motors and pumps so they can be fitted without lifting the machine fully.
How to pick the material
| Material | Choose it for |
|---|---|
| SS304 | General indoor machinery alignment |
| SS316 | Marine, offshore, coastal and chemical sites |
| Brass | Easy cutting and forming, non-sparking, good corrosion resistance |
| Copper | Electrical and thermal conductivity, earthing and busbar spacing |
| Titanium | Light weight with very high corrosion resistance |
Thickness tolerances depend on the material, the thickness and the standard the strip is rolled to (for example ASTM A480 or EN 10258 for stainless steel). Ask us for the tolerance that applies to your order. Related guide: SS304 vs SS316 shims.
Need a price or stock check? Send the grade, size and quantity to sales@saifexindustries.com, WhatsApp +971 58 535 2330, or request a formal quote. See our precision shims range.
Frequently asked questions
How thick is 0.001 inch shim stock in mm?
0.001 in (1 thou) is 0.0254 mm, usually sold as 0.025 mm shim.
What is the thinnest shim stock available?
Metal shim stock is commonly available from 0.025 mm (0.001 in); some materials are rolled thinner on request.
How do I convert mm to inches for shims?
Divide the thickness in millimetres by 25.4. For example, 0.5 mm ÷ 25.4 = 0.0197 in.
How many shims can I stack under a machine foot?
As few as possible, normally no more than 3–4. Large stacks compress and cause soft-foot problems.