Slotted Shims (Horseshoe) are used primarily for correcting the alignment of a machine on its foundation by stacking calibrated thicknesses under its feet. This page lists the industries and assemblies where they are specified, the selection criteria that matter for each application, installation practice, and the cases where a different fastener type is the correct choice. Parts are supplied to Trade series (slotted alignment shim). Stocked across roughly 9 mm to 17 mm, they cover general to heavy-duty work.
Typical Applications for Slotted Shims (Horseshoe)
The most common settings where these are specified:
- Electronics assembly: holding boards off a chassis and stacking multiple boards at a fixed pitch.
- Enclosures & panels: spacing a fascia, guard or label plate off the surface behind it.
- Machine alignment: setting and correcting the height of a component on its mounting.
- General machine building: fastening covers, brackets, motors and sub-assemblies on production equipment.
- Maintenance & repair (MRO): a stocked size for servicing existing plant where the original fastener spec must be matched.
How to Specify Slotted Shims (Horseshoe) for Your Application
- Size: Select on nominal size, and confirm it against the mating feature in the assembly. This product spans 9 mm–17 mm; check the full table below for the exact dimensions of each size.
- Material: Choose the material and finish for the service environment — plated steel for general use, stainless for corrosion resistance.
- Environment: For damp, coastal or chemical exposure prefer A4/316 stainless or a suitable coating; indoors, plated steel or A2 is usually sufficient.
- Standard: This product is supplied to Trade series (slotted alignment shim). Quoting the standard on your order guarantees interchangeable dimensions between suppliers.
Where Slotted Shims (Horseshoe) Are Not the Right Choice
Match the fastener to the load, environment and whether the joint must be reopened; the wrong class or style is the usual cause of joint failure.
