Standard Thread Tolerance

During certain manufacturing processes it has been acknowledged that the standard
class 1, 2 or 3 thread tolerances to be either too loose or too tight. In order to
maximise the particular processes efficiency, variability should be minimised which
may require deviation away from standard thread tolerances.

The following flow chart represents the recommended procedure for specifying
external and internal thread tolerances.

Internal thread

Set the lower tolerance equal to the minimum minor diameter for
the standard thread*. This sets the Maximum Material Condition
(MMC) from a known standard datum point.

Define the upper tolerance of the Major diameter

such as the desired tolerance is achieved.

Note: The
tolerance of
Is the overall the Go/No-Go
tolerance < gage is equal
No 0.625H? to 5% of this
tolerance to
be measured

Yes
External thread

Set the upper tolerance (Major diameter) equal to the

maximum Major diameter of the standard thread (0
allowance) *

Define the lower tolerance of the Major diameter such as the

desired tolerance is achieved.
Completion of this flowchart should give the following deliverables:
 Major thread diameter (shafts) from which to measure
 Minor thread diameter from which a “Go” and “No-Go” gage will be used to
verify the manufacturing process

“Go” and “No-Go” Gages

For internal threads the “Go” major diameter should be set equal to the minimum
major diameter of the internal thread. Gage tolerance is plus.

For “No-Go” the major diameter should be set equal to the maximum pitch diameter
of the internal thread plus H/2. Gage tolerance is minus.

[* Refer to Machinery’s Handbook 25 Edition, table 4, pages1654-1676]