shim plate

[/ʃɪm pleɪt/]
nounfemininepl: shim plates / placas calço
placa calço
1. A thin plate or wedge used to fill gaps, adjust alignment, or provide spacing between components in machinery, construction, or engineering applications
The mechanic used a shim plate to align the engine block properly.
O mecânico usou uma placa calço para alinhar corretamente o bloco do motor.
2. A precision-cut metal or composite plate inserted between parts to compensate for manufacturing tolerances or wear
Shim plates were installed under the bridge bearings to ensure proper load distribution.
Placas calço foram instaladas sob os aparelhos do vão para garantir a distribuição adequada de carga.
Shim plates are widely used in both American industrial and Brazilian manufacturing contexts. In Brazil, the term 'placa calço' is standardized in technical and engineering fields. The practice is essential in mechanical assembly, automotive repair, and construction industries in both countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
shimspacer plateadjustment platewedge platepacking plate

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
placa calço
Most common term in Brazilian Portuguese
São Paulo
chapa de calço
Alternative term used in industrial contexts
Portugal
placa de compensação
European Portuguese variant
Technical/Universal
calço
Short form used in technical documentation across all regions

Related Words

shim stockfeeler gaugebearing plateadjustment washeralignment tool

Related Idioms & Phrases

to shim something up - to adjust or level using shim plates
shimming the gap - filling spaces with shim plates to improve alignment
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