CHAPTER 9 Dimensioning & Tolerancing Practices

OBJECTIVES
After completing this chapter you will be able to:
1.

Apply the standard dimensioning practices for mechanical drawings.

2.

Differentiate current ANSI standards and past practices for dimensioning.

3.

Apply English and metric tolerances to dimensions.

4.

Calculate standard tolerances for precision fits.

5.

Apply tolerances using the basic shaft and basic hole systems.

6.

Identify and draw geometric dimensioning and tolerancing symbols.

INTRODUCTION
Before an object can be built, complete information about both the size and shape of the object must be
available. The exact shape of an object is communicated through orthographic drawings, which are
developed following standard drawing practices. The process of adding size information to a drawing is
known as dimensioning the drawing. In order that size information is communicated as clearly as possible,
standard dimension practices have been established.
Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GDT) was developed over the last forty years as a tool to
define parts and features more efficiently. GDT takes the function of the part into consideration, as well as
its fit with related parts. This allows the designer to define the parts features more accurately, without
increasing the tolerances.
DIMENSIONING
Geometrics is the science of specifying and tolerancing the shapes and locations of features on
objects. Once the shape of a part is defined with an orthographic drawings, the size information is added
also in the form of dimensions. Dimensioning a drawing also identifies the tolerance (or accuracy)
required for each dimension.
9.1

If a part is dimensioned properly, then the intent of the designer is clear to both the person
making the part and the inspector checking the part.

9.2

A fully defined part has three elements: graphics, dimensions, and words (notes).

SIZE AND LOCATION DIMENSIONS

A well dimensioned part will communicate the size and location requirements for each feature.
Communications is the fundamental purpose of dimensions. Parts are dimensioned based on two criteria:
Basic size and locations of the features.
Details of a part's construction, for manufacturing.

UNITS OF MEASURE
On a drawing used in American industry, all dimensions are in inches, unless otherwise stated. Most
countries outside of the United States use the metric system of measure, or the international system of units
(SI), which is based on the meter. The SI system is being used more in the United States because of global
trade and multinational company affiliations
9.3

Occasionally, a company will used dual dimensioning, that is, both metric and English
measurements on a drawing.

9.4

Angular dimensions are shown either in decimal degrees or in degrees, minutes, and seconds.

TERMINOLOGY
9.5

There are a number of terms important to the understanding of dimensioning practices.

9.6

A dimension is the numerical value that defines the size or geometric characteristic of a
feature.
A basic dimension is the numerical value defining the theoretically exact size of a feature.
A reference dimension is the numerical value enclosed in parentheses provided for
information only and is not used in the fabrication of the part.
A dimension line is the thin solid line which shows the extent and direction of a dimension.
Dimension lines are broken for insertion of dimension numbers.

9.7

Arrows are placed at the ends of dimension lines to show the limits of the dimension. Arrows
are uniform in size and style no matter what the size of the drawing.
An extension line is the thin solid line perpendicular to a dimension line indicating which
feature is associated with the dimension. There is a visible gap between the feature and the
end of an extension line.
A leader line is the thin solid line used to indicate the feature with which a dimension, note,
or symbol is associated.
A tolerance is the amount a particular dimension is allowed to vary.
Limits of size is the largest acceptable size and the minimum acceptable size of a feature.
The largest acceptable size is expressed as the maximum material condition (MMC) whereas
the smallest acceptable size is expressed as the least material condition (LMC).
Plus and minus dimensioning is the allowable positive and negative variance from the
dimension specified
Diameter symbol is the symbol which is placed preceding a numerical value indicating that
the associated dimension shows the diameter of a circle. The symbol used is the Greek letter
phi.
Radius symbol is the symbol which is placed preceding a numerical value indicating that the
associated dimension shows the radius of a circle. The radius symbol used is the capital letter
R.

The tolerance is the amount a particular dimension is allowed to vary. All dimensions have
either an explicit or implicit tolerance associated with it; that is, the tolerance may be noted
directly on the dimesion or implied through a general note.
The datum is the theoretically exact point used as a reference for tabular dimensioning.
BASIC CONCEPTS
Dimensions are used to describe the size and location of features on parts for manufacture. The basic
criterion is, "What information is necessary to make the object?" Dimensions should not be excessive,
either through duplication or dimensioning a feature more than one way.
9.8

A size dimension might be the overall width of the part or the diameter of a drilled hole. A
location dimension might be length from the edge of the object to the center of the drilled
hole.

9.9-10

The location and orientation of dimensions are based on the three positions: horizontal,
vertical, and angles.
Horizontalthe left to the right distance relative to the drawing sheet.
Verticalthe up and down distance relative to the drawing sheet
Diameterthe full distance across a circle, measured through the center.
Radiusthe distance from the center of an arc to any point on the arc, usually used on arcs
less than half circles.

9.11

In rectangular coordinate dimensioning, a base line (or datum line) is established for each
coordinate direction, and all dimensions specified with respect to these baselines. This is also
known as datum dimensioning, or baseline dimensioning. All dimensions are calculated as
X and Y distances from an origin point, usually placed at the lower left corner of the part.

9.12-13 Tabular coordinate dimensioning involves labeling each feature with a letter, and then
providing information on size and location in a table.
STANDARD PRACTICES
The guiding principal for dimensioning a drawing is clarity. To promote clarity, ANSI developed
standard practices for showing dimensions on drawings.
9.14

Dimension placement depends on the space available between extension lines. When space
permits, dimensions and arrows are placed between the extension lines.
When there is room for the numerical value but not both the arrows and the numerical value,
the value is placed between the extension lines and the arrows are placed outside the
extension lines.
When there is room for the arrows but not the numerical value, the arrows are placed between
the extension lines with the value outside the extension lines adjacent to a leader.
When the space is too small for either arrows or the numerical value, both are placed outside
of the extension lines as shown.

9.15

The minimum distance from the object to the first dimension is 10mm (3/8 inch). The
minimum spacing between dimensions is 6mm (1/4 inch). Note that these are minimum
values and may be increased where appropriate. There should be a visible gap between an
extension line and the feature to which it refers. Extension lines should extend about 1mm
(1/32 inch) beyond the last dimension line.

9.16

Dimensions should be grouped for uniform appearance as shown. As a general rule do not use
object lines as part of your dimension

9.17

Where there are several parallel dimensions, the values should be staggered.

9.18

Extension lines are used to refer a dimension to a particular feature and are usually drawn
perpendicular to the associated dimension line. Where space is limited, extension lines may
be drawn at an angle. Where angled extension lines are used, they must be parallel and the
associated dimension lines are drawn in the direction to which they apply.

9.19

Extension lines should not cross dimension lines, and should avoid crossing other extension
lines whenever possible. When extension lines cross object lines or other extension lines, they
are not broken. When extension lines cross or are close to arrowheads, they are broken for the
arrowhead.

9.20

When the location of the center of a feature is being dimensioned, the center line of the
feature is used as an extension line.
When a point is being located by extension lines only, the extensions lines must pass through
the point.

9.21

When it is necessary to define a limited length or area that is to receive additional treatment
(such as the knurled portion of a shaft), the extent of the limits may be shown by a chain line.
The chain line is drawn parallel to the surface being defined. If the chain line applies to a
surface of revolution, only one side need be shown.
When the limited area is being defined in a normal view of the surface, the area within the
chain line boundary is section lined. Dimensions are added for length and location unless the
chain line clearly indicates the location and extent of the surface area.

9.22

All dimension and note text must be oriented to be read from the bottom of the drawing
(relative to the drawing format). Placement of all text to be read from the bottom of the
drawing is called unidirectional dimensioning. Aligned dimensions have text placed
parallel to the dimension line with vertical dimensions read from the right of the drawing
sheet.

9.23

Dimensions are to be kept outside of the boundaries of views of objects wherever practical.
Dimensions may be place within the boundaries of objects in cases where extension or leader
lines would be too long, or where clarity would be improved.

9.24

If it is necessary to include a dimension which is out of scale, the out of scale dimension text
must be underlined.

9.25

The symbol X is used to indicate the number of times a feature is to be repeated. The number
of repetitions, followed by the symbol X and a space precedes the dimension text.

DETAIL DIMENSIONING

9.26

Holes are typically dimensioned in a view which best describes the shape of the hole.
Diameters must be dimensioned with the diameter symbol preceding the numerical value.
When holes are dimensioned with a leader line, the line must be radial. A radial line is one
that passes through the center of a circle or arc if extended. When it is not otherwise clear
that a hole extends completely through a part, the word THRU shall follow the numerical
value.

9.27

Symbols may be used for spotface, counterbore, and countersunk holes. These symbols
always precede the diameter symbol. The depth symbol may be used to indicate the depth of
a hole. The depth symbol is placed preceding the numerical value.

9.28

When the depth of a blind hole is specified, it refers to the depth of the full diameter of the
hole.

9.29

When a chamfer or countersink is placed in a curved surface, the diameter given refers to the
minimum diameter of the chamfer or countersink. If the depth or remaining thickness of
material for a spotface is not given, the spotface depth is the smallest amount required to clean
up the material surface to the specified diameter. Chamfers are dimensioned by providing
either an angle and a linear dimension or by providing two linear dimensions. Chamfers of 45
degrees may be specified in a note.

9.30

Slotted holes may be dimensioned any of several ways depending on which is most
appropriate for the application.

9.31

Keyseats are dimensioned in a particular way, because they present some unusual problems.

9.32

Summary of current (Y14.5-1994) and previous dimensioning standards used for various
features.
The diameter is specified for holes and blind holes. Blind holes are ones that do not go
through the part. If the hole does not go through, the depth is specified, preceded by the depth
symbol. Holes with no depth call out are assumed to go through.
A counterbore symbol is placed before the diameter callout, and the depth of the counterbore
is added with a depth symbol. If a depth is stated, it is a counterbore. If not, then it is a
spotface. The full note shows the diameter of the through hole followed by the diameter of
the counterbore then the depth of the counterbore. The spotface has the same specification as
the counterbore, except that the depth is not specified.
A countersink symbol is placed with a diameter of the finished countersink, followed by the
angle specification. The reason the depth is not given is that the resultant diameter is much
easier to measure.

9.33

If a full circle or an arc of more than half of a circle is being dimensioned, the diameter is
specified, preceded by the diameter symbol which is the Greek letter phi. If the arc is less
than half of a circle, then the radius is specified and it is preceded by an R. Concentric circles
should be dimensioned in the longitudinal view whenever practical.

9.34

Radii are dimensioned with the radius symbol preceding the numerical value. The dimension
line for radii shall have a single arrowhead touching the arc. When there is adequate room the
dimension is placed between the center of the radius and the arrowhead. When space is
limited, a radial leader line is used. When the center of an arc is not clearly defined by being
tangent to other dimensioned features on the object, the center of the arc is noted with a small
cross.

9.35

The center of the radius is not noted if the radius is shown tangent to defined surfaces. If the
center of an arc interferes with another view or is outside of the drawing area, foreshortened
dimension lines may be used.

9.36

When a radius is dimensioned in a view where it does not appear true shape the word TRUE
appears preceding the radius symbol.

9.37

There are standards that apply directly to each size thread. ANSI Y14.6 is a complete
definition of all of the inch series threads. Local notes are used to identify thread types and
dimensions. For threaded holes, the note should be placed on the circular view. For external
threads, the note is placed on the longitudinal view of the thread.

9.38

Two dimensions are necessary for a groove, the width and the depth or diameter.

9.39

There are many manufacturers standards that have been devised over the years which define
the sizes of certain commodities. Figure 9.32 shows a gage table for sheet metal.

DIMENSIONING TECHNIQUES
9.40

Dimensioning is accomplished by adding size and location information. One dimensioning

technique is called contour dimensioning, because the contours or shapes of the object are
dimensioned in their most descriptive view. For example, the radius of a arc would be
dimensioned where it appears as an arc and not as a hidden feature.

9.41

A second method of dimensioning a part is to break the part into its geometric configurations.
This method is called geometric breakdown and is used on objects made of geometric
primitives, such as prisms, cylinders, and spheres, or their derivatives such as half spheres or
negative cylinders (holes).

9.42-43 Steps in dimensioning a part.

DIMENSIONING GUIDELINES
The importance of accurate and unambiguous dimensioning cannot be overemphasized. The primary
guideline is that of clarity and whenever two guidelines appear to conflict, the method which most clearly
communicates the size information shall prevail. Every dimension must have an associated tolerance, and
that tolerance must be clearly shown on the drawing.
9.44

Avoid over-dimensioning a part. Double dimensioning of a feature is not permitted.

9.45

Dimensions should be placed in the view which most clearly describes the feature being
dimensioned.
A minimum spacing between the object and dimensions and between dimensions must be
maintained.
A visible gap shall be placed between the end of extension lines and the feature to which they
refer.
Manufacturing methods should not be specified as part of the dimension unless no other
method of manufacturing is acceptable.
Placing dimensions within the boundaries of a view should be avoided whenever practicable.

Dimensions for materials typically manufactured to gages or code numbers shall be specified
by numerical values.
Unless otherwise specified, angles shown on drawings are assumed to be 90 degrees.
Dimensioning to hidden lines should be avoided whenever possible. Hidden lines are less
clear than visible lines.
The depth of blind, counterbored, or countersunk holes may be specified in a note along with
the diameter.
Diameters, radii, squares, counterbores, spotfaces, countersinks, and depth should be specified
with the appropriate symbol preceding the numerical value.
Leader lines for diameters and radii should be radial lines.
TOLERANCING
9.46

Tolerances are used to control the amount of variation inherent in all manufactured parts. In
particular, tolerances are assigned to mating parts in an assembly. For example, the slot in the
part must accommodate another part. One of the great advantages of using tolerances is that it
allows for interchangeable parts, thus permitting the replacement of individual parts.
Tolerance is the total amount a dimension may vary and is the difference between the upper
(maximum) and lower (minimum) limits.
Tolerances are expressed as:

TOLERANCE REPRESENTATION
9.47

Direct limits or as tolerance values applied directly to a dimension.

9.48

Geometric tolerances contain the following:

Notes referring to specific conditions.
A general tolerance note in the title block.
If a dimension has a tolerance added directly to it, that tolerance supersedes the general
tolerance note. A tolerance added to a dimension always supersedes the standard tolerance,
even if the added tolerance is larger than the standard tolerance.
Tolerances can be applied directly to dimensioned features, using limit dimensioning This is
the ANSI preferred method; the maximum and minimum sizes are specified as part of the
dimension. Either the upper limit is placed above the lower limit, or when the dimension is
written in a single line, the lower limit precedes the upper limit and they are separated by a
dash.

9.49

The basic size is given, followed by a plus/minus sign and the tolerance value. Tolerance can
be unilateral or bilateral. A unilateral tolerance varies in only one direction, while a bilateral
varies in both directions. If the variation is equal in both directions, then the variation is
preceded by a + symbol. The plus and minus approach can only be used when the two
variations are equal.

IMPORTANT TERMS
9.50

A system of two parts that have toleranced dimensions. These two parts are used as an
example to define ANSI Y14.5M -1982 terms.
Nominal size a dimension used to describe the general size usually expressed in common
fractions.
Basic size the theoretical size used as a starting point for the application of tolerances.
Actual size the measured size of the finished part after machining.
Limits the maximum and minimum sizes shown by the toleranced dimension.
Allowance is the minimum clearance or maximum interference between parts.
Tolerance is the total variance in a dimension which is the difference between the upper and
lower limits. The tolerance of the slot in Figure 14.50 is .004" and the tolerance of the mating
part is .002".
Maximum material condition (MMC) is the condition of a part when it contains the most
amount of material. The MMC of an external feature such as a shaft is the upper limit. The
MMC of an internal feature such as a hole is the lower limit.
Least material condition (LMC) is the condition of a part when it contains the least amount
of material possible. The LMC of an external feature is the lower limit of the part. The LMC
of an internal feature is the upper limit of the part.

FIT TYPES
9.51-52 The degree of tightness between mating parts is called the fit. Clearance fit occurs when two
toleranced mating parts will always leave a space or clearance when assembled. Interference
fit occurs when two toleranced mating parts will always interfere when assembled.
Transition fit occurs when two toleranced mating parts will sometimes be an interference fit
and sometimes be a clearance fit when assembled.
9.53

The loosest fit is the difference between the smallest feature A and the largest feature B. The
tightest fit is the difference between the largest feature A and the smallest feature B.

FUNCTIONAL DIMENSIONING
9.54

When dimensioning a part it is critical to start out by identifying the functional features first.
Many times these features are holes. Any other features that come in contact with other parts,
especially moving parts, are considered functional. Dimension these features first, then all
other non-functional features can be considered.

TOLERANCE STACK-UP
9.55-56 The additive rule for tolerances is that tolerances taken in the same direction from one point
of reference are additive. The corollary is that tolerances to the same point taken from
different directions become additive. The effect is called tolerance stack-up.
9.57-58 The most desirable, and the most recommended, procedure is to relate the two holes directly
to each other, not to either side of the part, not to the overall width of the part.

METRIC LIMITS AND FITS

The terms used in metric tolerancing are as follows:
9.59

Basic Size is the size to which limits of deviation are assigned and are the same for both parts.

9.60-1

Deviation is the difference between the size of the part and the basic size.
Upper deviation is the difference between the maximum limit of size and the basic size.
Lower deviation is the difference between the minimum limit of size and the basic size.
Fundamental deviation is the deviation closest to the basic size.
Tolerance is the difference between the maximum and minimum size limits on a part.
Tolerance zone represents the tolerance and its position in relation to the basic size.
International tolerance grade (IT) a group of tolerances which vary depending upon the
basic size, but have the same level of accuracy with a given grade.
Hole basis is the system of fits where the minimum hole size is the basic size.
Shaft basis is the system of fits where the minimum shaft size is the basic size.

9.62

Some methods of designating metric tolerances on drawings.

9.63-4

The hole basis system is for clearance, interference, and transition fits.

9.65

The shaft basis system is for clearance, interference, and transition fits.

9.66

A description of preferred metric fits.

9.67

The line and note form for representing tolerances on drawings. The line form gives the
actual tolerance values, and the note form uses the basic size and letters that refer to standard
tables to determine the size.

9.68

Techniques for applying metric tolerances to a technical drawing.

STANDARD PRECISION FITS: ENGLISH UNITS

9.69

A special group of English unit tolerance relationships, called preferred precision fits, have
been developed over many years and work well in certain circumstances. Tables in the
Appendices list each type of fit.
When a shaft and a hole are the same size, it is referred to as a line-to-line fit.
The basic size is the exact theoretical size from which the limits of mating parts are assigned
when tolerancing. In the basic hole system, used to apply tolerances to a hole and shaft
assembly, the smallest hole is assigned the basic diameter from which the tolerance and
allowance is applied.

9.70

Creating a clearance fit using the basic hole system.

9.71

Applying tolerances for an interference fit.

9.72-73 The basic shaft system, a less popular method of applying tolerances to a shaft and a hole, can
be applied when using shafts that are produced in standard sizes. For this system, the largest
diameter of the shaft is assigned the basic diameter from which all tolerances are applied.
TOLERANCES IN CAD
Rather an interpreting dimensions on a drawing, a machinist can extract geometric information directly
from an electronic database created by a CAD system. For that reason, it is important that the geometry be
as accurate as possible when working in CAD. For that reason, it is important to alter geometry and
updated the dimension value from it rather than hand editing the dimension value.
Since a CAD system can typically only represent geometry at one size, a feature is constructed at its
basic size with its tolerance range note in the dimension or as a general note.
GEOMETRIC DIMENSIONING AND TOLERANCING
9.74

Within the last 15 years there has been considerable interest in GDT, in part because of the
increased popularity of statistical process control. This control process, when combined
with GDT, helps reduce or eliminate inspection of features on the manufactured object. The
flipside is that the part must be toleranced very efficiently; this is where GDT comes in.

9.75

Another reason for the increased popularity of GDT is the rise of worldwide standards, such
as ISO 9000, which require universally understood and accepted methods of documentation.

GDT SYMBOLS
9.76

At the heart of GDT is a rectangular box, called the feature control frame, in which the
tolerancing information is placed. Figure 9.74 shows an example of one.

GDT RULE #1
9.77

This rule covers the individual feature size and states:

9.78

Where only a tolerance of size is specified, the limits of size of an individual feature prescribe
the extent to which variations in its geometric form, as well as size, are allowed.
The critical point is that GDT is concerned with both the shape and position of features.

MATERIAL CONDITION
9.79

Maximum material condition (MMC) is the condition in which:

An external feature, like a shaft, is its largest allowable size.
An internal feature, like a hole, is its smallest allowable size.
Taken together, it means the part will weigh its maximum.
Three symbols pertaining to material conditions are:
M - Maximum material condition
L - Least material condition. This is the opposite of MMC (the part will weigh its minimum)

S - Regardless of material size. This indicates the material condition is not to be considered.
Departure from MMC refers to how much less material a part has than its MMC. For a hole,
this would mean how much larger it is from MMC. Departure from LMC would be the
opposite.
9.80

The envelope principle describes an idealized MMC of a part. Since any departure from
MMC means less material, all parts should fit within an envelope described by MMC.

9.81

One of the keys to is that it allows separation of size from form. This added flexibility means
that part can be manufactured at the highest allowable tolerance (and thus lowest cost) and
still work. This two variables can be manipulated to meet the particular demands of the part
functionality.

DATUMS AND DATUM FEATURES

9.82

A datum is a starting point for a dimension. Datums are theoretically ideal locations in space
such as a plane, centerline, or point. A datum may be represented either directly or indirectly
by an inspection device.
The surface of the object which is placed on the inspection device representing the datum is
called the datum feature. These datum features are clearly marked in the drawings to
indicate which are the reference surfaces to make measurements from.

9.83

Once a datum is established, the measurements can be taken from it rather than features on the
object. That is to say, the object feature representing the datum is aligned/placed on the
inspection device and the measurement is taken. The datum establishes the method of
locating other features on the object relative to each other.

9.84

Datums are not only used internal to a part but, more importantly, in relation to mating parts
in an assembly.
Datum features should be selected carefully based on their size, stability, accessibility,
functionality, etc. (See section 9.12.5)

9.85-6

Datums are the locators and the datum reference frame is the six degrees of freedom of
movement from the datum. The six degrees of freedom are the plus and minus directions
along the three Cartesian coordinate axes. Another way of looking at the frame is as three
orthogonal planes.
At a minimum, a part will have a primary datum. This datum will be chosen based on a
number of criteria:
Stability. This is the most important feature. Often dictating that the largest, flattest surface is
chosen.
Functional relationship. How does the feature mate/interact with other features?
Accessibility. Can the part be mounted and measured on the inspection device via this
feature?
Repeatability. Variations in the datum feature due to manufacturing should be predictable so
they can be accounted for.

9.87

Secondary and tertiary datums , if needed, should be located mutually perpendicular to each
other and to the primary datum.

9.88

The primary, secondary, and tertiary datums are identified with the letters A, B, and C,
respectively.

GEOMETRIC CONTROLS
Geometric controls fall into three major categories:
Form
Orientation
Location
A gaging tolerance establishes when a part is 'perfect'. For example, an inspection
instrument is considered perfect if it is ten times more accurate than the part being measured.
Refer to tolerance zones in the section 9.5 on Tolerances.
The virtual condition is the combined effect of the largest allowable size (MMC) and the
largest amount of geometric distortion. It is, in effect, the worst allowable condition of the
part.
FORM CONTROLS
Form controls are a comparison of an actual feature to a theoretically perfect one. Refer to
the text for the methods of inspection (i.e. the type of gaging) and the basis for
rejecting/accepting a part. The controls include:
9.89

Straightness. All form controls are variations and combinations of straightness. Straightness
itself is based on a line element. Straightness has two distinct variations:

9.90

Line element straightness. This compares a line on the part to a perfectly straight line. If the
line is on a flat surface, the direction must be identified.

9.91

Axis straightness. This compares the axis of a cylindrical feature to a perfectly straight line.
The axis can also define other symmetric forms such as a square tube.

9.92

Circularity. This compares a circular element on a feature to a perfect circle. Circularity

could be considered straightness bent into a circle. Note that the circle is being measured for
form only (i.e. no MMC is applied).

9.93

Flatness. Evaluates the highest and lowest point on a surface. That is , the surface is
compared to a perfect plane (straightness applied in all directions).

9.94

Cylindricity. In comparing a feature to a perfect cylinder, three factors are being considered:
straightness of all line elements, roundness of all circular elements, and taper (comparison of
circular elements to each other). This is probably the most expensive control due to its
difficulty in measuring.

ORIENTATION CONTROLS

9.95

Parallelism. This could be considered flatness at a distance or straightness of an axis at a

distance.

9.96

Perpendicularity. This could be considered flatness or straightness of an axis 90 degrees to a

datum.

9.97

Angularity. This could be considered flatness or straightness of an axis at some angle to a

datum.

9.98

Line profile. This takes a cross-sectional slice or slices of a feature and compares it to an
ideal shape. The control shape is usually some contiguous collection of mathematically
defined line elements (e.g. straight lines, circular arcs, elliptical curves, etc.).

9.99

Surface profile. This profile is constructed by stacking line profiles into a 3-D surface.

LOCATION CONTROLS
9.100

One of the oldest controversies in dimensioning is, how accurately must a diameter be located
when it is concentric with another diameter? There is no standard answer to this question
unless geometric controls are used.

9.101

Concentricity. The condition in which all cross sectional elements share the same datum axis.
This control is important for spinning parts where dynamic balance is important. Though
concentricity is a control of position, it is also concerned with shape since the shape can affect
the location of the axis.

9.102

Runout. There are two types of runout: single element and total. This control is best
described by its method of measurement. Single element runout places a gage on the rotating
part and measures the amount of fluctuation. With a perfectly centered cylinder, the gage
would not fluctuate. Total runout has the gage move up and down along the central axis to
measure all possible cross sections.

9.103

Position. This is the more flexible and versatile control. A few of the things this control can
do is:
Locate holes or a pattern of holes.
Locate the center of a feature.
Keep holes or other features perpendicular or parallel to other features.
Keep features straight and round.
Allow loose tolerances on the sizes of features while maintaining close control on their
locations.
Hole location from edges. This is used so that multiple holes are located accurately enough
that mating parts with the same number of matching pins will assemble properly. A functional
gage designed for this use would have perfect cylinders placed at the exact basic dimension
from the surfaces representing the datum(s) and from each other. This positional tolerance
would not have any meaning without taking MMC into account.

9.104

Hole location from hole. The key to this control is that holes are located relative to another
hole, not the edge of the part.

9.105

Coaxial datum and feature. This control ensures that a smaller, internal diameter is centered
on a larger, external diameter.

9.106

Symmetry. This control ensures that the feature is centered on the datum.

TOLERANCE CALCULATIO NS
Floating fastener tolerancing is used to confirm that loose bolts, screws or other fasteners
have the standard clearance in their holes.
Fixed fastener tolerancing is measured the same as with floating fasteners except that the
fastener is already fixed/located on one of the mating parts and the tolerance is now divided
between the parts.
Hole diameter tolerancing is used to calculate the MMC of the hole.
DESIGN APPLICATIONS
9.107-9 There is a five-step process for applying principles to the design process. They are:
Isolate and define the functions of the features/part.
Prioritize the functions.
Identify the datum reference frame based on functional priorities.
Select the proper control(s).
This section goes into a practical example. It is worth both stepping through this example and
then applying the five steps to other simple parts with your students. Often there is not one
'right' answer, but it allows them to think critically about the placement of the reference frame
and the selection of controls.
SUMMARY
Dimensioning is a method of accurately communicating size information about objects and structures
so they can be produced. Dimensioning of mechanical devices follow standards established by ANSI.
These standards guide you in the proper use and placement of dimensional information on an engineering
drawing. Many parts need to be dimensioned using toleranced values. Tolerances allow a dimensional
value to vary within limits set by the designer. Toleranced dimensions are useful in the accurate
manufacture of assembled parts.
Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GDT) is essential to the modern manufacturing environment.
The first rule of GDT is that size control of a feature (as is given in a dimension) inherently includes
controls of form. The goal of GDT is to carefully evaluate the functionality of a part and its features and
only control the geometry of those features necessary for the proper functioning of the part. Also related to
this goal is to remember that usually involves the loosening, not tightening, of tolerances because its robust
specificity allows for trade-offs between size and form. Together, these qualities of GDT, when combined
with statistical process control, should help minimize manufacturing costs. This process leads to controlling
the fewest number of features, at the largest allowable tolerance, and is confirmed through checking the
fewest number of parts; all of this while still keeping quality within a quantifiable goal.
GOALS REVIEW

1.

Apply the standard dimensioning practices for mechanical drawings. Section 9.2.6

2.

Differentiate current ANSI standards and past practices for dimensioning. Section 9.3

3.

Apply English and metric tolerances to dimensions. Sections 9.5 and 9.6

4.

Calculate standard tolerances for precision fits. Section 9.6.6

5.

Apply tolerances using the basic shaft and basic hole systems. Section 9.6.6

6.

Identify and draw geometric dimensioning and tolerancing symbols. Section 9.8

QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW

1.

How are concentric circles best dimensioned?

2.

Sketch the symbols for: diameter, radius, depth, counterbore, countersink, and square.

3.

Where are the symbols listed in #2 placed with respect to their numerical values?

4.

What is the primary difference between counterbore and spotface?

5.

When is a small cross required at the center of a radius?

6.

When the depth of a blind hole is given, to what does the depth dimension refer?

7.

When are angled extension lines used? Sketch an example.

8.

When should extension lines be broken?

9.

How is a reference dimension identified?

10. How can you tell if a dimension is out of scale (without measuring the drawing)?
11. Write a note that would show that a .25 inch deep .875 diameter hole is to be repeated six times.
12. How can you tell if an arc is to be dimensioned as a diameter or as a radius?
13. When should the word "drill" replace the word "diameter" when dimensioning a hole?
14. What is the proper proportion of width to length of arrowheads?
15. What is the difference between a limit dimension and plus and minus dimensioning?
16. What is MMC?
17. What is the term for the theoretical size of a feature?
18. Compare the thickness of dimension lines to object lines.
19. Compare the thickness of dimension lines to extension lines.
20. If two dimensioning guidelines appear to conflict, which guideline should be followed?
21. Write a definition of what Rule #1 means for washer with the following specifications: .500 ID,
1.000 OD, .062 thickness, and a tolerance of plus or minus 0.005.
22. Describe the difference between the MMC condition of a shaft and the MMC condition of a hole.
23. How does a shaft depart from MMC? How does a hole depart from MMC?
24. What is the difference between a datum and a datum feature?
QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW
1.

How are concentric circles best dimensioned?

2.

Sketch the symbols for: diameter, radius, depth, counterbore, countersink, and square.

3.

Where are the symbols listed in #2 placed with respect to their numerical values?

4.

What is the primary difference between counterbore and spotface?

5.

When is a small cross required at the center of a radius?

6.

When the depth of a blind hole is given, to what does the depth dimension refer?

7.

When are angled extension lines used? Sketch an example.

8.

When should extension lines be broken?

9. How is a reference dimension identified?

10. How can you tell if a dimension is out of scale (without measuring the drawing)?
11. Write a note that would show that a .25 inch deep .875 diameter hole is to be repeated six times.
12. How can you tell if an arc is to be dimensioned as a diameter or as a radius?
13. When should the word "drill" replace the word "diameter" when dimensioning a hole?
14. What is the proper proportion of width to length of arrowheads?
15. What is the difference between a limit dimension and plus and minus dimensioning?
16. What is MMC?
17. What is the term for the theoretical size of a feature?
18. Compare the thickness of dimension lines to object lines.
19. Compare the thickness of dimension lines to extension lines.
20. If two dimensioning guidelines appear to conflict, which guideline should be followed?

21. Write a definition of what Rule #1 means for washer with the following specifications: .500 ID,
1.000 OD, .062 thickness, and a tolerance of plus or minus 0.005.
22. Describe the difference between the MMC condition of a shaft and the MMC condition of a hole.
23. How does a shaft depart from MMC? How does a hole depart from MMC?
24. What is the difference between a datum and a datum feature?
TRUE AND FALSE QUESTIONS
1. On a drawing for use in American industry, all dimensions are in inches, unless otherwise stated.
2. Most drawings produced outside of the United States use the metric system of measure.
3. An extension line is used to associate a radius or diameter dimension with a circular feature.
4. There is a visible gap between the extension line and the feature's corner.
5. A datum is only a theoretically exact point.
6. The minimum spacing for the first dimension from the object is 6mm.
7. The spacing between the first and second dimension does not have to be the same as between the first
dimension and the object
8. It is acceptable for extension lines to cross each other but it is not acceptable for extension lines to
cross dimension lines.
9. Not-to-scale dimensions are acceptable as long as the dimension text is underlined.
10. Dimensions should always be placed in the adjacent view to the contour of a feature.

11. Datum dimensioning has all of the dimensions calculated from a common origin point.
12. A tolerance is the amount a dimension may vary between its average and maximum limit.
13. You would use a transition fit to guarantee that one part would be anchored to the other part.
14. The basic size is the size to which the limits of deviation are assigned.
15. The feature control frame contains information on both the geometric control and the tolerance zone.
16. The feature control frame only contains information on size control, not form control.
17. Rule #1 states that variations in geometric form must be treated separately from variations in size.
18. The maximum material condition (MMC) of a hole is when it is its largest allowable size.
19. The only way a shaft can deviate from maximum material condition (MMC) is by getting larger.
20. The only way a pin can allowably depart from MMC is by getting smaller.
21. In actuality the flat plat of a height gage is a simulated datum, not a true datum.
22. The primary datum is farthest left hand flat surface on the part.
23. The virtual condition combines the least material condition (LMC) with the maximum allowed
geometric distortion.
24. The angle of the secondary and tertiary datums relative to the primary datum must be specified on
the drawing.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUES TIONS
1. Which symbol is used to indicate a dimension refers to the diameter of a hole?
a. R
b.
c.
d. ?
2. Which symbol is used with angular dimensions?
a. R
b.
c.
d. ?
3. In _________________ dimensioning, a datum is established for each Cartesian coordinate direction.
a. baseline
b. symmetric
c. hole basis
d. none of the above
4. In current ANSI standards, a _____________ is indicated by a 'V' shaped symbol
a. counterbore
b. datum surface
c. countersink

d. drill
5. A limited length or area (such as a polished end of shaft) is indicated with a _____________ line.
a. hidden
b. chain
c. section
d. dimension

6. In previous ANSI standards, a blind hole dimension would have to contain which designation?
a. DP
b. THRU
c. C'BORE
d. CSK
7. The _________________ of an external feature is the upper limit.
a. maximum material condition
b. runnout
c. minimum material condition
d. allowance
8. The _________________ of an internal feature is the upper limit.
a. maximum material condition
b. runnout
c. minimum material condition
d. allowance
9. A term used to des cribe the concept of perfect form at MMC is:
a. datum reference frame
b. the envelope principle
c. rule #1
d. departure from MMC
10. Which of the following is descriptive of the datum reference frame?
a. six degrees of freedom
b. located based on the functionality of the part
c. three orthogonal planes
d. all of the above
11. The primary datum feature should be established based on:
a. an inaccessible feature that is unlikely to get damaged
b. the feature that is likely to fluctuate most in size and shape
c. a feature that has predictable variation
d. the curved rather than flat surface of a cylinder
12. All of the following controls are based directly on the concept of straightness except:
a. line profile
b. roundness
c. flatness
d. parallelism