Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
(OP)
Hi,
I have a design that calls for a sheet of laminated shim stock. The shims are located in a bolted joint and used to adjust freeplay. The shim stock is 16 laminations .002" think for a total thickness of .032". McMaster part #9720K16. I need to cut a shim that has a 20" OD, 16" ID, and clearance holes for 20 bolts. I am making 2 parts.
What is the best way to cut the shim stock: Laser, water jet, end mill? Any first hand experience would be appretiated.
Thank you.
I have a design that calls for a sheet of laminated shim stock. The shims are located in a bolted joint and used to adjust freeplay. The shim stock is 16 laminations .002" think for a total thickness of .032". McMaster part #9720K16. I need to cut a shim that has a 20" OD, 16" ID, and clearance holes for 20 bolts. I am making 2 parts.
What is the best way to cut the shim stock: Laser, water jet, end mill? Any first hand experience would be appretiated.
Thank you.





RE: Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
Milling tools will not last. Water jet would be perfect if tolerances and price are OK.
http://www.welding-advisers.com/
RE: Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
Sorry about forgeting the material. It will be carbon steel. Tolerances are fine for wate jet cutting, I was more worried about delamination during the cutting process.
RE: Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
RE: Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
RE: Cutting Laminated Shim Stock
Water jet cutting will also have its challenges as the material being only .002 thick will try to move just setting on the table. You will probably have to sandwich that thin of material between two sacrificial sheets of material andadd weights to stop movement due to air and water blow back.