Our stainless steel shims are available as individual packs or as complete Shimcases. The right choice depends on the type of work you do, the range of machinery you service, and whether you work in the field or at a fixed location.
This guide helps you decide which option provides the best value for your requirements.
Shimcases
Shimcases contain a pre-selected range of shim thicknesses in a protective carrying case. Each kit includes 140 shims across seven thicknesses (0.05mm to 2.00mm), with 10 pieces of each thickness for two profile sizes.
ESC-AB
Profiles A and B (50mm and 75mm shims). Covers small to medium motors and pumps. Suitable for bolt sizes M12 to M20. Machine feet up to approximately 75mm.
ESC-CD
Profiles C and D (100mm and 125mm shims). Covers medium to large industrial equipment. Suitable for bolt sizes M24 to M42. Machine feet up to approximately 125mm.
Case Features
Both Shimcases include an ultra high-strength polypropylene carrying case rated to IP67. The cases are dust-tight and water-resistant, with resistance to solvents, UV exposure and impact. Shims are organised by thickness for quick identification in the field.
When to Choose a Shimcase
- Field Service Work — Working at customer sites where you need a portable, organised selection of shims ready to use.
- Multiple Machine Types — Servicing a variety of equipment where you cannot predict the exact shim thickness needed.
- New Alignment Programme — Starting an alignment programme from scratch and needing a complete starter inventory.
- Maintenance Vehicles — Equipping service vehicles or breakdown vans with a comprehensive shim selection.
Cost Comparison
Shimcases offer savings compared to purchasing the equivalent shims individually, and include the protective carrying case at no additional charge. The ESC-AB contains 140 shims; purchasing the same quantity as individual packs would cost approximately 20% more.
When to Choose Individual Packs
- Known Requirements — You know exactly which profile and thickness you need for a specific job or machine.
- Restocking — Replenishing specific thicknesses that have run low in your existing inventory or Shimcase.
- Profile E Requirements — Profile E (200mm) shims are not included in the standard Shimcases and must be ordered individually.
- Thicker Shims Needed — Shimcases include 0.05mm to 2.00mm. For 3.00mm shims, order individual packs.
- Single Machine Type — Your site uses identical machines requiring only one profile size. Buying just that profile is more economical.
- Bulk Requirements — Large projects or OEM applications requiring high quantities of specific shims.
Quick Selection Guide
What size machines do you work on?
Small to Medium
Foot size up to 75mm, bolts M12–M20. Consider ESC-AB.
Medium to Large
Foot size 75mm to 125mm, bolts M24–M42. Consider ESC-CD.
Very Large
Foot size over 125mm, bolts M48+. Profile E individual packs.
Do you need thicker shims (1mm to 3mm)?
Shimcases contain thicknesses from 0.05mm to 2.00mm. For larger adjustments requiring significant height changes, supplement your kit with individual packs of 3.00mm shims.
Do you work across the full range?
Maintenance teams and contractors working on varied equipment often carry both ESC-AB and ESC-CD kits to cover the full range of machinery from small motors to large process equipment. For occasional Profile E requirements, individual packs provide the necessary coverage.
Typical Applications
| Equipment Type | Typical Profiles | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Fractional HP motors, small pumps | A, B | ESC-AB kit |
| Process pumps, HVAC fans | A, B, C | ESC-AB kit + Profile C packs |
| Large motors, compressors | C, D | ESC-CD kit |
| Heavy industrial drives | D, E | ESC-CD kit + Profile E packs |
| Turbines, large generators | E | Profile E individual packs |
| General maintenance contractor | A, B, C, D | Both ESC-AB and ESC-CD kits |
Replenishing Your Kit
Certain thicknesses tend to be used more frequently than others. The 0.05mm, 0.10mm and 0.50mm shims often need restocking first. All thicknesses are available as individual packs of 10 to replenish your Shimcase as needed.
Stock Monitoring
Check your Shimcase inventory after each alignment job. Reorder any thickness that falls below two or three pieces to ensure you always have sufficient stock for the next job. All profiles and thicknesses are held in UK stock for rapid dispatch.