Why Shim Verification Matters During Commissioning
Pipeline commissioning is the final stage before a system goes live. During this phase, every component must be verified against engineering specifications, and shim records are a critical part of that verification. Incomplete or inaccurate shim documentation can delay startup, trigger re-inspections, and create liability issues that persist for the life of the pipeline.
Commissioning teams must confirm that every pipe support has been shimmed to the correct elevation, that all shim dimensions are recorded, and that as-built documentation matches what was actually installed in the field.
Pre-Commissioning Shim Checklist
Use this checklist to verify shim records before pipeline handover:
Phase 1: Record Completeness
- All support points documented: Verify that every pipe support identified in the engineering drawings has a corresponding shim record
- Shim dimensions recorded: Confirm thickness, width, and material type are documented for each shim in every pack
- No blank or missing entries: Check for gaps in the shim tracking log where supports may have been missed
- Timestamps present: Each entry should have a date and time showing when the shim was installed or measured
Phase 2: Accuracy Verification
- Spot-check field measurements: Physically verify a sample of shim packs against recorded dimensions
- Compare to engineering specs: Cross-reference shim records with the piping isometrics and support schedules
- Verify elevation data: Confirm that pipe elevations at each support match the design within tolerance
- Check material specifications: Ensure shim materials match what was specified (carbon steel, stainless, galvanized)
Phase 3: Documentation Package
- Generate final PDF reports: Compile all shim data into professional reports for the client turnover package
- Include company branding: Reports should include contractor logo, project name, document numbers
- Attach to mechanical completion: Link shim reports to the mechanical completion certificate for each system
- Archive digital records: Ensure cloud backup of all shim data for future reference and audits
Common Commissioning Shim Issues
These are the most frequent problems commissioning teams encounter with shim records:
- Missing records for temporary supports: Shims installed on temporary pipe supports during construction may not have been tracked
- Outdated spreadsheet versions: When multiple crews use separate spreadsheets, the final compilation often has duplicate or conflicting data
- Illegible field notes: Paper-based shim logs from early construction phases may be damaged or unreadable
- No photographic evidence: Some clients require photos of shim installations, which paper systems cannot provide
- Inconsistent units: Mixing inches and millimeters across different crew records creates confusion
How Digital Shim Tracking Simplifies Commissioning
Using a digital shim tracking app like ShimSheet from the start of construction eliminates most commissioning headaches. When every shim is recorded digitally in real time, the commissioning team simply generates reports from the existing data rather than scrambling to compile paper records.
Benefits for Commissioning Teams
- Instant report generation: Generate PDF shim reports for any system or support group with one tap
- Complete audit trail: Every entry is timestamped and tied to the user who recorded it
- No data loss: Cloud-synced records cannot be lost, damaged, or misplaced
- Easy spot-checking: Pull up any support's shim history on a phone while standing at the pipe support
- Client access: Share reports digitally instead of printing and scanning paper documents
As-Built Shim Documentation Requirements
Most pipeline projects require as-built documentation that includes shim records. This documentation becomes part of the permanent project record and may be referenced during future maintenance, modifications, or regulatory audits.
As-built shim documentation should include the final shim configuration at each support point, including total pack thickness, individual shim dimensions, material type, and the date of final verification. ShimSheet stores all of this data and generates reports that meet typical client documentation standards.
Streamline Your Commissioning Shim Verification
Start tracking shims digitally from day one and make commissioning painless. ShimSheet gives your team complete, accurate records ready for handover.
Try ShimSheet FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What shim records are needed for pipeline commissioning?
You need complete records of every shim installed at each pipe support, including dimensions, material type, and installation date. These records should be compiled into professional reports for the client turnover package.
How do I verify shim records during pre-commissioning?
Start by checking record completeness for all support points, then spot-check a sample of physical shim packs against the recorded data. Use a digital tool like ShimSheet to quickly pull up and compare records in the field.
Can ShimSheet generate commissioning reports?
Yes. ShimSheet generates professional PDF reports with company branding, project details, and complete shim dimensions for any project or support group. These reports are suitable for inclusion in mechanical completion and turnover packages.