The 316 stainless steel round shim has an unpolished (mill) surface, meets American Society for Testing and Materials International ASTM A666 specifications, and has a standard tolerance. The 316 stainless steel grade provides better corrosion resistance than 304 stainless steel. It may be slightly magnetic.

Shims are thin pieces of material placed between objects for a variety of uses, including added support, improved leveling, increased insulation, tighter seals, or better spacing. They also can be used to fill gaps between machine parts that are prone to wear. Shapes include round, notched, and slotted.

Corrosion resistance describes the material's ability to prevent deterioration caused by atmosphere, moisture, or other medium. Wear resistance indicates the ability to prevent surface damage caused by contact with other surfaces. Hardness (commonly measured as indentation hardness) describes its resistance to permanent surface deformation.