At Avantus, our state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques mean that we are able to work with a wide variety of metals to meet your precise production requirements.

Brass shims

Brass is a cost-effective option for shims, as it is easy to work with due to its high malleability and its low-friction properties.  It is most appropriate for environments that are characterised by low corrosion.

Aluminium shims

Aluminium is lightweight and low density, and consequently is a highly versatile material for use in shims.  It is resistant to corrosion and particularly effective in humid airframe environments where moisture is a factor.  It is relatively low-cost and has a reputation for being environmentally friendly due to being widely recycled.

Titanium shims

Titanium has the highest strength to weight ratio of any metal and is consequently a popular choice for airframe construction. It has a low coefficient of thermal expansion and low thermal conductivity, meaning that it can be deployed for its insulating properties in airframe environments that are characterised by heat. In addition, it is highly resistance to corrosion. However, it is less easy to manufacture than some materials due to its relatively high reactivity, which means that it is more expensive than some other options.

Beryllium copper shims

With high levels of strength, excellent thermal properties and durability, beryllium copper is appropriate for use in a range of airframe environments.  Its ease of forming and machining mean that it can be utilised for large scale production needs where repeatability and reliability are key, as well as for smaller, bespoke products.

Inconel shims

Inconel, is a super-alloy, and has many characteristics that make it ideal for use in airframe production.  These include having high levels of strength and resistance to oxidisation, carburisation and corrosion.  It also has excellent thermal properties, meaning that it can safely be used in areas such as jet engines.

Stainless steel shims

Extremely reliable with high levels of strength and durability, stainless steel is widely used in the manufacture of airframe components. It can be used both internally and externally, as it is resistant to impact, corrosion and rust.