In high-performance engineering, it is small innovations that tend to make the greatest difference. One such innovation that has transformed mechanical assemblies, where space, weight, and torque are paramount, is the custom friction shim. At Surface Technology, our cutting-edge friction shim technology, driven by patented Ni-Grip™ friction coating, represents a leading solution to challenging mechanical needs across many industries.
From aerospace parts to robotic systems, and electric motors to precision equipment, our own custom friction shims are engineered not just to heighten surface friction but also to optimize torque transfer and preserve joint integrity when conditions are challenging.
Custom friction shims are precision-engineered items positioned between two surfaces of a bolted joint to add surface friction. Thin metallic layers specially coated to enhance grip help to contain shear forces and avoid slippage under load.
Not like typical shims, which can be mere spacers or alignment devices, custom friction shims are designed specifically to:
- Optimize torque transmission
- Minimize the requirement for larger fasteners
- Reduce mechanical play
- Avoid relative motion in critical joints
What really distinguishes Surface Technology's product is our Ni-Grip™ friction technology—a patented surface treatment that produces uniform, high-friction performance even in extreme conditions.
The Science Behind Ni-Grip™ Friction Technology
Ni-Grip™ is a patented coating applied to our shims to enhance their coefficient of friction. This nickel-based surface treatment incorporates particles that interlock microscopically with the mating surfaces, effectively increasing the friction by up to five times compared to untreated metal interfaces.
This technology allows engineers to:
- Secure high-torque joints without relying on additional bolts or welds
- Maintain lightweight and compact assemblies
- Improve system durability and reduce maintenance cycles
For applications where failure is not an alternative, Ni-Grip™ friction shims offer a degree of assurance and dependability that cannot be had with conventional fastening practices.
Uses of Custom Friction Shims
The adaptable nature of custom friction shims renders them indispensable to many high-usage industries. Some of the most prevalent uses are listed below:
1. Robotic Assemblies
Accuracy and movement are the essence of robot operation. Slight looseness in the joints can cause misalignment, deteriorated performance, or system breakdown. Specific friction shims ensure the surface contact required to produce accurate alignment, particularly under repeat motion or load conditions.
2. Electric Motors and Dynamic Equipment
In dynamic rotating assemblies and electric motors, there is always noise and vibration. Surface Technology's electric motor shims and thin metal shims are designed to not only improve the transfer of torque but also eliminate noise and vibration. This double function increases stability and maximizes operating life.
3. Aerospace and Defense
Weight and reliability are paramount in aerospace design. With the aid of friction shims, engineers can meet torque levels without adding component size or weight. Our specially designed shims minimize dependency on oversized fasteners while delivering maximum integrity in bolted joints.
4. Precision Machinery
With micron-level tolerances, the slightest bit of movement can lead to equipment failure or product flaw. Our custom shim solutions provide a solid fit and enhance mechanical repeatability, essential in CNC machines, semiconductor devices, and optical instruments.
Design Flexibility for Custom Applications
No two engineering issues are identical. That's why Surface Technology provides custom friction shims in different shapes, thicknesses, and designs—ranging from slotted and tapered profiles.
We collaborate with your engineering staff from design to production, offering:
- Slotted Metal Shims: Suitable for items that need axial adjustment or simple installation without full disassembly.
- Tapered Metal Shims: Ideal for the removal of angular misalignments and maintaining uniform contact pressure.
- Electric Motor Shims: Designed to reduce vibration and stabilize performance in high-speed rotating equipment.
Every shim is built to close tolerances, sometimes in microns, ensuring a perfect fit for your application.
Benefits of Custom Friction Shims
There are numerous explanations for why engineers in various industries prefer our friction shims over conventional measures:
1. Enhanced Torque Transfer
With five times the friction of untreated interfaces, customized shims provide improved torque transmission without extra mechanical supports.
2. Smaller Component Size
By obviating oversized fasteners, these shims ensure reduced weight and space occupation of assemblies—extremely important in aerospace, robotics, and automotive industries.
3. Improved Joint Stability
Friction shims provide a buffer against vibrations and shear forces and drastically reduce the likelihood of fatigue or loosening over time.
4. Cost Savings
Not requiring larger fasteners, extra bolts, or welding saves not only material cost but also reduces manufacturing and assembly complexity.
5. Flexibility
Ultra-thin shims, specialty shapes, or performance in particular environmental conditions—Surface Technology can create a solution tailored to your precise requirements.
Engineered for Performance, Built for Reliability
We base our approach to shim design on engineering cooperation. Each application starts with a thorough understanding of the mechanical environment: load conditions, material compatibility, thermal expansion, and operating dynamics. We utilize this information to design and produce a solution that is both potent and durable.
Once shim profile is established, our sophisticated manufacturing methods provide dimensional accuracy, while our Ni-Grip technology ensures repeatable friction on the mating surfaces.
Partnership for Success
At Surface Technology, we don't only supply parts—we supply performance. From consultation to production conclusion, we partner hand-in-hand with your team to:
- Evaluate application needs
- Offer material suggestions
- Prototype one-of-a-kind designs
- Produce on scale for consistent quality
Our customer-first philosophy guarantees that every friction shim is not only a part, but a precision solution built to succeed.
Why Surface Technology?
When custom friction shims are on the line, quality and performance are not open for discussion. Here's why Surface Technology is the most popular choice among top OEMs and engineering companies:
- More than 40 years of industry expertise
- Advanced manufacturing capabilities
- Industry-leading Ni-Grip™ friction technology
- Custom engineering assistance and prototyping
- ISO-certified processes and quality control
We are committed to helping our customers achieve greater mechanical performance, reduce system weight, and simplify their assembly processes.
Conclusion
In high-demand engineering environments, the details matter—and friction shims are among the most powerful small components available today. With the ability to multiply torque transfer, reduce slippage, and enhance joint reliability, custom friction shims are a simple yet highly effective way to boost system performance.
At Surface Technology, our proprietary Ni-Grip™ coating and decades of engineering know-how make sure your shims do more than simply fill a gap—they become an integral part of your product's success.
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