3M™ Friction Shims

3M ID B49000165

Offers up to 5X increase in the coefficient of static friction even with dissimilar counterparts

Allows same bolted connection to transmit significantly higher torque loads

Increases design freedom by enabling higher loads and shear forces without the need to change parts or component sizes

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Tech Data Sheet (PDF, 2MB)

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Highlights

Offers up to 5X increase in the coefficient of static friction even with dissimilar counterparts
Allows same bolted connection to transmit significantly higher torque loads
Increases design freedom by enabling higher loads and shear forces without the need to change parts or component sizes
Simple drop-in solution typically requires no modifications to component design
Enables downsized components by using smaller and lighter bolts and fasteners

3M™ Friction Shims consist of a nickel-coated steel substrate with partially embedded diamond particles. When placed between two mating surfaces in a bolted connection and applied with pressure, the diamonds “bite” into each surface to create a microform fit. This allows for a coefficient of static friction up to 5× greater than in a conventional bolted connection.

Higher Torque. Same Bolt Connection.
In automotive engineering, wind energy and many other industries, there is a general trend towards compact, lightweight designs with maximum power density – and high reliability. However, in order to transfer high loads in friction joints such as shaft-collar or bolt connections, the size or number of components typically needs to be increased. 3M™ Friction Shims offer a proven and cost-effective alternative: by increasing the coefficient of friction between components, they allow transmission of up to 4x higher torques – without requiring modification to the joint design.

Proven Reliability in a Variety of Industries
We have supplied millions of 3M friction shims for demanding automotive and motor sports applications, power generation and other industries where components must be reliably joined together to transmit forces and torques. Our technical specialists have many years of industrial experience, and conduct in-house testing to meet our customers' specific requirements. Thanks to this expertise and extensive testing, we have over 100 million friction shims in use with no reported failures in the field.

Automotive Applications

Central bolt designs in crankshafts and camshafts
Continuous variable timing
Balancer shaft modules
Shaft-to-collar connections

Typical properties

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3M™ Friction Shims are intended for industrial applications and manufactured to industrial specifications. 3M Advanced Materials Division (3M) will assess the intended use of 3M™ Friction Shims and reserves the right not to sample, sell or supply if 3M determines that it is not in a position to support the intended use of 3M™ Friction Shims.

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