Brass shim washers are widely specified where precision spacing, low friction performance, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity are required. Used across engineering, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical assemblies, brass shim washers offer a balance of strength, workability, and long-term reliability. At Stephens Gaskets, we manufacture high-quality brass shim washers and brass shim material for customers who demand consistent dimensional accuracy and dependable performance.
With more than 70 years of experience producing shims, washers, and gaskets, we understand how material choice directly affects operational efficiency, safety, and service life.
What Is a Brass Shim Washer?
A brass shim washer is a thin precision washer manufactured from a copper and zinc alloy. Brass combines good mechanical strength with corrosion resistance and low friction characteristics, making it a versatile material for spacing and alignment applications.
Brass shim washers are typically used to:
- Adjust spacing between components.
- Compensate for tolerance variations.
- Reduce friction in moving assemblies.
- Provide electrical conductivity where required.
- Improve alignment and load distribution.
Why Choose Brass for Shim Washers?
Brass offers a unique combination of properties that make it particularly suitable for certain environments.
1. Strength and Durability
Solid brass provides reliable mechanical strength while remaining workable and easy to machine. In spacing and alignment applications, this ensures consistent performance without frequent replacement.
2. Corrosion Resistance
Brass is naturally resistant to corrosion and performs well in environments exposed to moisture. Unlike some ferrous materials, it does not rust, making it suitable for plumbing and external applications.
3. Low Friction and Non-Sparking Properties
Brass offers low friction characteristics and is resistant to sparking. This makes it particularly valuable in applications involving fuels, chemicals, or environments where spark prevention is essential.
4. Electrical Conductivity
Brass conducts electricity effectively, making brass shim washers suitable for use in electrical assemblies and appliances where conductivity is required.
5. Aesthetic Finish
In visible assemblies, brass provides a clean, professional appearance while maintaining mechanical performance.
6. Recyclability and Sustainability
Brass is fully recyclable, supporting more sustainable manufacturing practices and reducing long-term material waste.
Common Applications for Brass Shim Washers
Brass shim washers are used across multiple industries.
Typical applications include:
- Plumbing systems and fittings.
- Bearings and low friction assemblies.
- Gears and mechanical linkages.
- Electrical appliances and components.
- Chemical and fuel handling environments.
Their non-sparking and corrosion resistant properties make them particularly suitable in safety-critical installations.
Brass Shim Washers vs Other Materials
While stainless steel and aluminium shims are suitable for many applications, brass is often selected when:
- Electrical conductivity is required.
- Non-sparking performance is critical.
- Corrosion resistance is important but extreme strength is not required.
- A balance between strength and machinability is needed.
Material selection should always be matched to load, environment, and safety requirements.
Bespoke Brass Shim Washer Manufacturing
Stephens Gaskets manufactures brass shim washers to exact customer specifications.
We supply:
- Custom internal and external diameters.
- Tight thickness tolerances.
- Small prototype runs and high-volume production.
- Precision-cut brass shim material.
Our in-house manufacturing processes ensure consistent quality and repeatable performance across every batch.
Why Choose Stephens Gaskets as Your Brass Shim Supplier?
Customers choose Stephens Gaskets because we combine material expertise with precision manufacturing.
Working with us gives you:
- Experienced UK brass shim manufacturers.
- Bespoke shim washer solutions.
- ISO 9001-certified quality systems.
- Reliable UK-based production and supply.
- Technical support from specification through to delivery.
We support customers across engineering, plumbing, electrical, and industrial sectors.
FAQs
1. What are brass shim washers used for?
Brass shim washers are used for spacing, alignment, and load distribution in plumbing, mechanical, and electrical assemblies.
2. Are brass shim washers corrosion resistant?
Yes. Brass offers good resistance to corrosion and does not rust, making it suitable for moisture-exposed environments.
3. Why are brass shim washers used in fuel or chemical environments?
Brass is non-sparking and resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for applications where explosive atmospheres or chemicals are present.
4. Can Stephens Gaskets manufacture custom brass shim washers?
Yes. We manufacture bespoke brass shim washers in custom sizes, thicknesses, and batch quantities.
5. How do I request a quote for brass shim washers?
To request a quote, contact Stephens Gaskets with your required dimensions, thickness, quantities, and application details. Our team will provide expert guidance and a tailored quotation.
Speak to a Brass Shim Specialist
If you require precision brass shim washers or brass shim material, speak directly with Stephens Gaskets.
Our team will help you specify and manufacture a solution that delivers reliability, safety, and long-term performance.
Contact Our Team
Phone: +44 (0)121 544 5808
Email: sales@stephensgaskets.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
Visit Our Website
Address: Stephens Gaskets Ltd, 19 Hainge Road, Tividale, Oldbury, West Midlands B69 2NR.