What is the only approved material for pump shims?

The only approved material for pump shims is 304 stainless steel. This material is favored due to its excellent corrosion resistance properties, which are essential in pump applications where exposure to various fluids can lead to degradation and failure of less resistant materials. 304 stainless steel also provides sufficient strength and rigidity to maintain the integrity of the shim under operational stresses, ensuring that it can effectively support the pump components.

Using materials such as aluminum alloy, bronze, or carbon steel may not provide the same level of durability and corrosion resistance that is crucial in the demanding environments where pumps operate. Each of these materials has different mechanical properties and corrosion resistance characteristics, which could lead to premature wear or failure if used as pump shims. Thus, 304 stainless steel stands out as the most reliable and beneficial choice for this application.