When machinery alignment, tolerance compensation, and precision spacing are critical, custom-manufactured shims provide the solution. Colvin Friedman produces custom shims with tolerances as tight as ±0.005 inches, utilizing advanced die-cutting technology that has been refined over 75 years. We work with stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and specialty materials to manufacture shims tailored to your exact specifications.
Based in Petaluma, California, our U.S. manufacturing facility serves OEMs and equipment manufacturers across automotive, aerospace, energy, medical device, and heavy industrial sectors. Our rotary and flatbed die-cutting capabilities handle everything from prototype quantities to high-volume production runs, with average lead times of three weeks.
Our die-cutting equipment achieves tolerances down to ±0.005 inches on rotary systems and ±0.010 inches on flatbed operations. We handle thickness ranges from ultra-thin 0.002 inches to heavy-duty applications exceeding 0.125 inches. Every shim undergoes dimensional verification using calibrated measuring equipment to ensure compliance with your specifications.
Corrosion-resistant; tolerances to ±0.0005".
Lightweight with strong corrosion resistance for aerospace.
Non-sparking, low-friction, machinable for hazardous environments.
High thermal and electrical conductivity.
Cost-effective with rust-preventive treatment.
PTFE, polyester films, and engineered polymers.
Advanced layered solutions for custom performance.
Adhesive-mounted shims for fast installation.
Based on temperature, chemical exposure, and load needs.
Horseshoe design for installation without disassembly.
Precision washers preventing axial tool movement.
Adjust thickness in 0.002" increments per layer.
Angled surfaces for leveling and tightening assemblies.
Ensuring tight bearing fits in worn or molded housings.
Any geometry matching your CAD files.
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We begin with a comprehensive technical consultation to understand your application requirements, material specifications, and tolerance needs. Our engineering team evaluates whether rotary or flatbed die cutting is best suited for your project, considering factors such as thickness, material type, and production volume.
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For new designs, we produce prototype shims to validate fit and tolerance requirements before committing to production tooling. This critical stage allows you to test shims in your actual assembly environment and confirm the final product meets all performance specifications.
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Our tooling partners manufacture precision dies to your exact specifications using high-grade tool steel. For rotary die cutting, we create cylindrical dies that mount on servo-driven or line-driven presses. Flatbed operations utilize steel rule dies with sharp cutting edges that are matched to your shim’s profile.
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During full-scale production, our equipment delivers exceptional throughput while maintaining precision:
Real-time die condition assessment prevents quality degradation throughout the manufacturing process.
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Custom finishing services include:
Average production lead time is three weeks from order confirmation to delivery, with expedited options available for critical projects.
Colvin Friedman delivers proven results through unmatched quality and precision. Since 1949, the company has maintained a zero-recorded quality rejection rate across all custom shim projects, supported by a rigorous Quality Management System and continuous process monitoring. For customers using integrated inventory services, Colvin Friedman achieves a 99.99% stock-out avoidance rate through Kanban, JIT, and automated restocking systems. Its rotary die-cutting technology maintains ±0.005-inch tolerances for precise, reliable performance.
Customers report 40–60% faster assembly times, 35–50% longer bearing life, and significantly reduced maintenance costs thanks to precision-fit shims that eliminate trial-and-error fitting. Custom kitting and thickness marking cut sorting time by 70%, while stocking programs minimize inventory costs and eliminate rush orders. In critical situations, Colvin Friedman responds within 24 hours to ensure operations continue uninterrupted.
| Capability | Description |
|---|---|
| Zero-Defect Track Record | Our 75+ years of manufacturing experience have resulted in zero recorded quality rejections across thousands of projects and millions of units. This exceptional quality record reflects our commitment to precision die-cutting, continuous process improvement, and rigorous quality management systems. |
| Direct Access to Decision-Makers | You work directly with Josh Rodman, our Vice President, who personally oversees every production. No layers of account managers or communication delays. |
| U.S.-Based Manufacturing with Predictable Lead Times | Domestic production eliminates overseas shipping delays, extended lead times, and supply chain uncertainty. Our three-week average turnaround keeps your projects on schedule, and we maintain the flexibility to accommodate rush orders when production demands require expedited delivery. |
| Technical Engineering Support | Our team provides design-for-manufacturability consultation, material selection guidance based on real-world performance data, and tolerance recommendations optimized for your specific application conditions. |
| Flexible Production Volumes | We accommodate prototype runs for design validation, mid-volume production for ongoing projects, and high-volume manufacturing scaled to meet demand. Whether you need 100 custom shims for testing or 100,000 units for production, our equipment and processes are tailored to meet your requirements. |
| Value-Added Services | Beyond manufacturing, we provide comprehensive supply chain support, including custom packaging solutions, inventory management integration, and direct shipping to distribution centers or assembly facilities. |
“I recently worked with Colvin Friedman on a project, and I couldn't be more impressed with their professionalism and quality of work. From the initial consultation to the final product, they went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect. The team was knowledgeable, responsive, and delivered exactly what we needed within our tight deadline. The precision and craftsmanship exceeded our expectations.”
– Max W.
| Capability | Colvin Friedman | Large Manufacturers | Overseas Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tolerance Precision | ±0.005" consistently | ±0.010" typical | ±0.020" common |
| Quality Track Record | 75+ years zero rejections | Variable by facility | Inconsistent standards |
| Direct Communication | Direct to VP Josh Rodman | Account managers only | Language/time barriers |
| Lead Time | 3 weeks average | 4–6 weeks | 8–12 weeks + shipping |
| Emergency Response | <24 hours available | 3–5 business days | 2–3 weeks minimum |
| U.S. Manufacturing | California-based production | Often overseas | Overseas exclusively |
| Custom Capabilities | 100% job shop model | Prefer standard products | Limited customization |
| Prototype Support | Included in the process | Additional cost/time | High MOQ requirements |
Our rotary die-cutting equipment maintains tolerances down to ±0.005 inches for materials up to 0.015 inches thick. Flatbed die cutting achieves ±0.010 inches for thicker materials. Specific tolerances depend on material properties; softer metals like aluminum and brass hold tighter tolerances than harder alloys. For ultra-precision applications, stainless steel can achieve ±0.0005 inches.
We handle projects from prototype quantities (as few as 50-100 pieces) through high-volume production runs exceeding 100,000 units. Our flexible manufacturing approach accommodates both small test batches for design validation and ongoing supply agreements for production requirements.
Yes. Provide us with existing shims or detailed measurements (thickness, outer diameter, inner diameter, slot dimensions), and we will replicate them precisely. We can also reverse-engineer worn or damaged shims to produce replacements that match the original specifications.
Yes. Upon request, we provide material certifications and test reports that document the material composition, mechanical properties, and dimensional compliance. This documentation supports quality assurance requirements and regulatory compliance in regulated industries, including aerospace and medical devices.
Yes. We laminate pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) backing to custom shims, creating a peel-and-stick installation. This option simplifies assembly processes and ensures that shims remain in position during equipment operation and vibration.
Colvin Friedman delivers precision custom shims engineered to your exact specifications. Our combination of advanced die-cutting technology and responsive customer service ensures you receive shims that meet tolerance requirements and arrive on schedule.
Free technical consultation with the engineering team
Custom quote with manufacturability analysis
Direct access to VP Josh Rodman for immediate answers
Same-day response to all inquiries
Zero-defect manufacturing backed by 75 years of experience
