GEOMETRIC DIMENSIONING

AND TOLERANCING
 GEOMETRIC DIMENSIONING
AND TOLERANCING

INTRODUCTION
GD&T is a technical drawing language and is used as a standard throughout the world. It
was first introduced in 1957 by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI). In the
United States it was maintained as a standard ANSI Y14.5 until the latest release. The
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) began maintaining the standard in
1994, thus becoming ASME Y14.5. In Europe and other parts of the world, the
International Organization for standards (ISO) maintains the standard. These two
standards have had some long-standing differences, but with each new revision the
standards become more similar. In a recent development, the United States, through its
member body, ANSI, has received the ISO/TC10/SC5 Secretariat. Thus, the U.S. inherits
the world leadership for standards development on “Technical drawings, product
definition and related documentation, geometrical dimensioning and tolerancing”.

WHY IT’S CALLED GEOMETRIC DIMENSIONING AND TOLERANCING

As stated earlier, GD&T is a technical drawing language. Although, it is considered a

language, it’s also an engineering shorthand. Just as secretaries and court reporters use a
shorthand to compress allot of information into a smaller package that can be read as the
original larger material, GD&T can be used to relay allot of information without allot of
verbage that may be misunderstood. Like the other shorthand’s mentioned, GD&T uses
symbols that can be interpreted into sentences; the symbols used are called “Geometric
Symbols”. These symbols are readily recognized throughout the global engineering
community.

DRIVING FORCES BEHIND GD&T

⇒ Growing complexity and sophistication of product designs.

⇒ Need for a common engineering language in today’s global marketplace.
⇒ Need for compliance with ISO standards.
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GENERAL RULES

RULE 1 – LIMITS OF SIZE RULE

The geometric form of a feature may vary so long as it stays within the limits
of its size tolerance.

RULE 2 – MATERIAL CONDITION RULE

On all applicable geometric tolerances, a modifier must be specified whenever

MMC or LMC are required. RFS will apply when no modifier is present.

RULE 3 – PITCH DIAMETER RULE

THREADS – Each tolerance of orientation or position and datum reference

specified for a screw thread applies to the axis of the thread derived from the
pitch diameter. Where an exception to this practice is necessary, the specific
feature of the screw thread (such as MAJOR ∅ or MINOR ∅) shall be stated
beneath the feature control frame or beneath the datum feature symbol as
shown below:

GEARS, SPLINES, ETC. – Each tolerance of orientation or position and

datum reference specified for a gear, spline, etc. must designate the specific
feature of the gear, spline, etc. to which it applies (such as PITCH ∅, MAJOR
∅ or MINOR ∅) this information shall be stated beneath the feature control
frame or beneath the datum feature symbol as shown below:

RULE 4 – DATUM/VIRTUAL CONDITION RULE

A virtual condition exists for a datum feature of size where its axis or center
plane is controlled by a geometric tolerance. In such cases, the datum feature
applies at its virtual condition even though it is referenced in a feature control
frame at MMC or LMC.
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FEATURES OF SIZE
A feature of size is a feature whose physical size can vary due to tolerances.
In the figure below; the hole, slot width, block length and block width would be
considered features of size because (due to the tolerances) they can get bigger or smaller.
Although the individual surfaces may be part of a feature of size, they are not considered
a feature of size.

DATUMS
A datum is a theoretically exact point, axis, or plane from which the location or
geometric characteristic of a part feature are established. A datum feature (an actual
physical part feature that has an important functional relationship to the part feature being
controlled) establishes a datum.

DATUM FEATURE SYMBOL

⇒ The datum feature symbol consists of a capital letter enclosed in a square frame, a
leader line extending from the frame to the concerned feature and a filled triangle at
the termination of the leader line, as shown in the example below:

⇒ Each datum is assigned a different reference letter. Do not use letters I, O or Q.

⇒ If the single letter alphabet is exhausted, double letters may be used, i.e., AA, AB,
etc.
⇒ When a datum feature symbol is repeated to identify the same feature in other
locations of a drawing, it need not be identified as reference.
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DATUM PLACEMENT ON PLANE SURFACES (not a feature of size)

When using a singular surface as a datum, the datum symbol should be placed on the
outline of the surface or an extension line of the feature outline. When sharing an
extension line of a dimension to or from the surface being designated as the datum,
the datum symbol should be clearly separated from the dimension line, see below:

Extension line
There must be
clear separation
↔ between symbol
and dimension
line

Dimension line

DATUM PLACEMENT ON SIZE FEATURES

⇒ When using a feature of size as a datum reference, the datum symbol is placed
on as an extension of, and aligned with, the dimension line. If the dimensional
arrows are outside, one arrow may be replaced by the datum feature triangle. See
below for examples:
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ATTACHING DATUMS TO FEATURE CONTROL FRAMES

If there is a feature control frame associated with the feature you are applying a datum to,
you should consolidate the two by attaching the datum to the feature control frame.

⇒ RIGHT – By consolidating, all the information is located in one place.

When attaching a datum symbol to a feature control frame, place it either above or
below and centered on the feature control frame, as shown below:

⇒ WRONG – Having the datum separate from the feature control frame may make the
drawing look unorganized, sloppy and more difficult to interpret.

SELECTION OF DATUMS
⇒ Features used to establish datums, must be clearly identified, easily recognizable and
clearly represent the design intent.
⇒ Use corresponding features on mating parts to establish datums. This will help to
facilitate calculations and ensure proper part assembly.
⇒ In order to be useful for measuring, a datum on an actual piece should be accessible
during manufacture so that measurements can be readily made from it.
⇒ Avoid ambiguity of design requirements by specifying datums where necessary to
clearly establish a relationship between features.
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BASIC DIMENSIONS
⇒ A basic dimension is a numerical value used to describe the theoretically exact size,
profile, orientation, or location of a part feature or datum target.
⇒ On a drawing, it appears inside a box.

⇒ The tolerance for a basic dimension is within the feature control frame associated to
the feature being located.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, we want to use “Position” to locate 4 holes. That
will require the locating dimensions to be basic.
To define a dimension as basic, a box is placed
around the dimension. This box is meant to flag
the dimension as having a special
“Geometrical” tolerance requirement and that
standard tolerancing (including title block
tolerances) will not apply.
Some people interpret basic dimensions as exact
and having no tolerance. Although,
manufacturing capabilities has greatly increased
over the last 100 years, we are not perfect and
we can’t have dimensions with no tolerance.
Basic dimensions do have a tolerance and that
tolerance will be located within the “Feature
Control Frame” associated with the feature
being controlled. For this example, the tolerance
for the locating dimensions will be within the
feature control frame below the hole callout.

WHEN TO USE BASIC DIMENSIONS

⇒ When locating a feature with position (as shown above).
⇒ With angularity.
⇒ With profile of line or surface.
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FEATURE CONTROL FRAMES

A feature control frame is used as a means to convey the geometric tolerance for a
feature. It is divided into compartments containing a geometric characteristic symbol
followed by the tolerance and datum reference(s), if required.

Geometric Geometric Datum

characteristic tolerance reference
zone

GEOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS

⇒ Geometric characteristics control the form and location of a feature, as well as its
relationship to other features.

⇒ There are five categories of geometric characteristics:

FORM TOLERANCES PROFILE TOLERANCES

c Flatness d Profile of a surface

u Straightness k Profile of a line

e Circularity

g Cylindricity RUNOUT TOLERANCES

h Circular runout

ORIENTATION TOLERANCES t Total runout

b Perpendicularity

a Angularity LOCATION TOLERANCES

f Parallelism j Position

r Concentricity

i Symmetry
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GEOMETRIC TOLERANCE ZONE

⇒ The geometric tolerance zone will be either a width or a diameter, depending on the
geometric characteristic and feature being controlled.
⇒ A diameter symbol will precede the tolerance for a cylindrical tolerance zone.
⇒ Absence of a diameter symbol means the tolerance zone is the distance between
either:
- Two parallel planes - Two parallel straight lines - Two uniform boundaries
⇒ The total tolerance is always indicated and should not be considered a
plus/minus tolerance as with the coordinate method of dimension tolerancing.

MODIFIERS
There are two modifiers; Maximum Material Condition (displayed as an M with a circle
around it) and Least Material Condition (displayed as an L with a circle around it).
⇒ When a modifier is used, it can only refer to a feature of size.
⇒ Maximum Material Condition (MMC) of a feature will cause the part to be
heavier. In the example below the hole and slot width would be at their smallest,
meaning (at MMC) the hole would be ∅.990 and the slot width would be 1.384. The
block width and length would be at their largest, meaning (at MMC) the block width
would be 3.873 and the block length would be 5.588.

⇒ Least Material Condition (LMC) of a feature will cause the part to be lighter. In
the example above the hole and slot width would be at their largest, meaning (at
LMC) the hole would be ∅1.010 and the slot width would be 1.394. The block width
and length would be at their smallest, meaning (at LMC) the block width would be
3.863 and the block length would be 5.528.

Features at LMC will cause the

Features at MMC will cause part to be lighter
the part to be heavier
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MAXIMUM MATERIAL CONDITION PRINCIPLE

This is one of the most important principles of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
This principle will come into effect at inspection.
⇒ Presence of the Maximum Material symbol means that the tolerance (as it is stated in
the “Feature Control Frame”) will apply only when the feature is at MMC. If, at
inspection, the feature is found to be within the size tolerance range but not at
maximum material condition the geometric tolerance can be adjusted, giving you a
bonus tolerance.
⇒ As the feature departs from MMC and approaches its LMC size, the geometric
tolerance is allowed to increase by an amount equal to the difference between the
MMC size and the feature’s actual size, as determined at inspection.

EXAMPLE: As seen below, if at inspection, the hole is measured to be at its MMC size
(1.025) the tolerance is .020. If the hole is measured to be at its nominal size (1.030) it
would be .005 larger than its MMC size, therefore, the tolerance would increase the same
amount, making it .025.

ANOTHER EXAMPLE: At
inspection, if the inspector
measures the actual hole size to
be 1.032, then the inspector will
be able to add an additional
.007 to the tolerance zone for
locating the hole.
The modifier will “enable” the
inspector to add the additional
location tolerance on the spot,
possibly eliminating the need
for a phone call or an NCR.
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LEAST MATERIAL CONDITION PRINCIPLE

The least material condition principle is used primarily to maintain wall thickness and is
not recommended for mating parts.
⇒ Presence of the Least Material symbol means that the tolerance (as it is stated in the
“Feature Control Frame”) will apply only when the feature is at LMC. If, at
inspection, the feature is found to be within the size tolerance range but not at least
material condition the geometric tolerance can be adjusted, giving you a bonus
tolerance.
⇒ As the feature departs from LMC and approaches its MMC size, the geometric
tolerance is allowed to increase by an amount equal to the difference between the
LMC size and the feature’s actual size, as determined at inspection.
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REGARDLESS OF FEATURE SIZE PRINCIPLE

The absence of either the MMC or LMC symbol means that the geometric tolerance must
be held to its specified size, regardless of the part feature’s size.
EXAMPLE: As shown below, the tolerance zone remains the same “regardless” of what
size the feature is produced at.
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DATUM REFERENCE
When an orientation, profile, runout or location tolerance must be related to a datum,
datum reference letter(s) that establish the relationship are placed after the geometric
tolerance.

⇒ These are the datum(s) from which the geometric characteristic is established.
⇒ There may be as many as three datum references.
⇒ Datum references are listed (reading left to right) in order of their importance to the
part feature, starting with the primary datum (alphabetical order is of no concern).
- The first datum reference is the primary datum.
- The second datum reference is the secondary datum.
- The third datum reference is the tertiary datum.
⇒ The maximum material condition principle, least material condition principle and
regardless of feature size principle can also apply to the datum reference (providing
the datum is a feature of size).

EXTREME CAUTION must be used when using MMC or LMC in the

datum reference compartment. It will have a direct impact on the location
of the feature referencing it by adding additional bonus tolerance.
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FEATURE CONTROL FRAME CHEAT SHEET

The Do’s and Don’ts for proper display of feature control frames on drawings
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DATUM PLACEMENT ON SIZE FEATURES

⇒ When using a feature of size as a datum reference, the datum symbol is placed on as
an extension of the dimension line. If there is insufficient space for the two
dimensional arrows, one arrow may be replaced by the datum feature triangle, as
shown below:

⇒ When attaching a datum symbol to a feature control frame, place it either above or
below the feature control frame, as shown below:
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FORM TOLERANCES
⇒ The following four geometric characteristics are classified as form tolerances:

⇒ Form tolerances are used to control the geometric shape of a part feature, when
conventional size tolerances alone are inadequate. They place tighter limits on the
amount of variation allowed.
⇒ Form tolerances are not referenced to a datum, because the features are not
controlled in relation to another feature. Instead, they specify how much the part
feature is allowed to vary from the perfect geometric shape implied by the print.

FLATNESS
⇒ Flatness is the condition of a surface where all elements are in one plane.
⇒ A flatness tolerance specifies how much a part surface is allowed to vary from the
perfect plane implied by the print.
⇒ A flatness tolerance provides a zone of a specified thickness defined by two parallel
planes; the part surface must lie between them.
⇒ As a “rule of thumb”, a flatness tolerance should be no more than half the total
size tolerance. In the example below the size tolerance is ±.010 (.020 total) and the
flatness tolerance is .005, one quarter the total tolerance.
EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the flatness tolerance means that the entire indicated
surface must lie within a .005 wide tolerance zone.
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Inspecting for Straightness

⇒ Make sure part feature meets the size tolerance.
⇒ To check surface straightness:
- Use a dial indicator.
- The full indicator movement (FIM) or total indicator reading (TIR) cannot be
larger than the straightness tolerance.
⇒ To check axis straightness controlled on an MMC basis:
- Use a functional gage.
- The functional gage diameter must equal the virtual condition of the
controlled feature.
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⇒ A flatness tolerance cannot be modified by MMC or LMC because only surface area
is controlled and area does not have size.
⇒ The flatness tolerance cannot exceed the specified size tolerance limits.

EXAMPLE: If the part is produced at .550, the surface can vary between .550 and
.555. If the part is produced at .570, the surface can vary between .565 and .570.

Inspecting for Flatness

⇒ First verify that the feature meets the size tolerance.
⇒ Open inspection method:
- Level the surface.
- Use a dial indicator to trace over the surface.
- The FIM (full indicator movement) or TIR (total indicator reading) cannot
exceed the specified flatness tolerance.
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STRAIGHTNESS
⇒ A straightness tolerance is used to control the straightness of a surface or an axis. It
specifies how much the surface or axis is allowed to vary from the perfect straight
line implied by the print.
⇒ Straightness tolerancing is typically applied to cylindrical features (pins, shafts, bars,
etc.) to control bowing and other distortions. It may also be applied to flat surfaces.
⇒ As a “rule of thumb”, a straightness tolerance should be no more than half the
total diameter tolerance. In the example below the diameter tolerance is ±.010
(.020 total) and the straightness tolerance is .005, one quarter the total tolerance.

Straightness of Cylindrical Features

Surface straightness
⇒ When a leader to the surface of a cylindrical feature connects a straightness
tolerance, it controls the straightness of the feature’s surface.
⇒ The tolerance applies to the entire surface; however, the straightness of the
surface is actually controlled in individual longitudinal (lengthwise) elements.
⇒ Two parallel straight lines form the two-dimensional tolerance zone.
⇒ The straightness tolerance must be contained within the specified size tolerance
limits.
EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the straightness tolerance means that each
longitudinal element of the indicated surface must lie within a .005 wide tolerance
zone.
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Axis straightness
⇒ When a straightness tolerance is associated with a size dimension, it applies to the
axis of the feature.
⇒ The tolerance zone is cylindrical.
⇒ The combined effect of the feature’s size and its straightness error may not exceed
the feature’s virtual condition size.
- Virtual condition represents the most extreme condition a feature can be in
and still fit its mating feature.
- For an external feature, virtual condition is the MMC size plus the
geometric tolerance.
- For an internal feature, virtual condition is the MMC size minus the
geometric tolerance.
⇒ The feature must still be within the specified size limits at any given cross-
section.
EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the straightness tolerance means that the axis of the
pin must lie within a .003 cylindrical tolerance zone when the pin is in its maximum
material condition.
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Application of MMC to Axis Straightness

⇒ An MMC modifier in the feature
control frame means that, as the
feature moves away from its
maximum material condition and
approaches its least material
condition, the straightness
tolerance is allowed to increase
an equal amount.

Straightness of a Flat Surface

⇒ Controls the straightness of a flat surface in a specific direction.
⇒ Tolerance applies to individual longitudinal (lengthwise) elements of the surface.
⇒ The tolerance zone is the distance between two parallel straight lines.
⇒ Straightness tolerance must be contained within the specified size tolerance limits.

EXAMPLE: In the front view below, the straightness tolerance means that each
longitudinal element of the surface must lie within a 0.05 wide tolerance zone in the
direction indicated.
In the side view, each
longitudinal surface
element must lie
within a 0.1 wide
tolerance zone.
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CIRCULARITY
⇒ Circularity refers to the roundness of a cylindrical, cone-shaped or spherical part
feature at any given cross-section.
⇒ A circularity tolerance specifies how much the cross-section is allowed to vary from
the perfect circularity implied by the print.
⇒ Two concentric circles bound (define) a circularity tolerance zone. The surface of the
cross-section must lie between them.
⇒ As a “rule of thumb”, a circularity tolerance should be no more than half the
total size tolerance. In the example below the diameter tolerance is ±.005 (.010
total) and the circularity tolerance is .003, less than half the total diameter tolerance.
EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the circularity tolerance mans that the surface of any
cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the pin must lie within a .003 wide tolerance
zone.

EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the circularity tolerance means that the surface of
any cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the cone must lie within a 0.25 wide
tolerance zone.
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EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the circularity tolerance means that the surface of
any cross-section passing through the center of the sphere must lie within a .005 wide
tolerance zone.

Inspecting for Circularity

SEE “Inspecting for Circularity and Cylindricity” (at the end of cylindricity).
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CYLINDRICITY
⇒ Cylindricity refers to the roundness of pins, shafts and other cylindrical features along
their entire length.
⇒ A cylindricity tolerance specifies how much the surface of the cylindrical feature is
allowed to vary from the perfect cylinder implied by the drawing.
⇒ Two concentric cylinders, a specified distance apart, bound a cylindricity tolerance
zone. The surface of the cylindrical feature must lie between them.
⇒ As a “rule of thumb”, a cylindricity tolerance should be no more than half the
total size tolerance. In the example below the diameter tolerance is ±.005 (.010
total) and the cylindricity tolerance is .003, less than half the total diameter
tolerance.
EXAMPLE: In the drawing below, the cylindricity tolerance means that the entire
surface of the pin must lie within a .003 wide tolerance zone.
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Inspecting for Circularity and Cylindricity

⇒ V-block method – Adequate for applications requiring only an approximation of
circularity/cylindricity error.
- Part is rotated on V-block while dial indicator measures surface one line at a
time.
o For circularity, dial indicator is re-zeroed at each measuring point. For
cylindricity, dial indicator is not re-zeroed.
o Because the FIM (TIR) reflects error on the diameter, rather than the
radius, it must be divided in half. The resulting FIM cannot exceed the
specified circularity/cylindricity tolerance.
⇒ Between centers method
- More accurate than V-block; however, any error in centers will affect
accuracy of reading.
- FIM (TIR) is compared directly to specified circularity/cylindricity tolerance.
⇒ Precision rotary table method
- Most accurate method.
- An electronic probe transcribes the part’s outside diameter onto a
polargraph. The resulting profile is compared to an overlay.
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LOCATION TOLERANCES
⇒ The following geometric characteristics are classified as location tolerances:

⇒ Location tolerances can only apply to a feature of size.

⇒ Location tolerances control variation in the specified location of a feature in relation
to another feature or datum.
⇒ Location tolerances are typically used to control:
- Center distance between holes, slots, bosses and tabs
- Location of a pattern of features with respect to a datum
- Co-axial features
- Features that must be concentric or symmetrical
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POSITION
⇒ Position is the condition where a feature or group of features is located (positioned) in
relation to another feature or datum feature.
⇒ Position can only be used to locate features of size.
⇒ Since position is specified for “size” features, the modifier principles (MMC, LMC &
RFS) should be considered.
⇒ Basic dimensions are always used in conjunction with a position tolerance for
locating features relative to specified datums or between interrelated features. Basic
dimensions establish true position.
⇒ True Position refers to the theoretically exact location of the center, axis, or center
plane of a feature in relation to another feature or datum.
⇒ A position tolerance specifies how much the center, axis, or center plane is allowed to
vary from its theoretically exact location.
⇒ Depending on the application, the position tolerance zone may be
- Cylindrical, defined by a diameter symbol (∅) preceding the geometric tolerance
in the feature control frame.
- Distance between two parallel planes, defined by the absence of a symbol
preceding the geometric tolerance.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, when the four small holes are in their maximum
material condition, they are each to be positioned within a .002 cylindrical tolerance
zone with respect to datums A, B, and C. When the slot is in its maximum material
condition, its center plane must lie within a .010 wide tolerance zone with respect to
datums A and B.
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Mating Parts – Floating/Fixed Fastener

The floating and fixed fastener formulas are design tools that are used when we wish to
calculate the applicable positional tolerance required for proper assembly of mating parts.
Floating Fastener
⇒ Two mating parts that fasten together using bolts and nuts is an example of a floating
fastener.
- The two mating parts would have clearance holes to accept the bolts.
- The bolts could “float” around in the holes, making them floating fasteners.
⇒ In order to determine the positional tolerance required, the MMC of the bolt and hole
must be considered.
- Take the MMC of the clearance hole, then subtract the MMC of the fastener.
The resultant number is the tolerance that is applied in the feature control frame of
each part, as shown below.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When using the position tolerance calculation method

illustrated, you must assume the possibility of a line on line interference,
when the parts are at their extreme tolerance limits. Therefore, you may
want to compensate by backing off the calculated tolerance a thousandths or
two to ensure clearance (meaning the tolerance above may be .014 or .013).
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Fixed Fastener
⇒ Two mating parts that fasten together using studs and nuts (such as a studded outlet
connection) is an example of a fixed fastener.
- One part would have clearance holes to accept the studs.
- The other part would have tapped holes, in which the studs would be “fixed” in
their location, unable to float.
⇒ In order to determine the positional tolerance required, the MMC of the fastener
(stud) and clearance hole must be considered.
- Take the MMC of the clearance hole, then subtract the MMC of the fastener and
divide the result by 2. The resultant number is the tolerance that is applied in the
feature control frame of each part, as shown below.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When using the position tolerance calculation method

illustrated, you must assume the possibility of a line on line interference when
the parts are at their extreme tolerance limits. Therefore, you may want to
compensate by backing off the calculated tolerance a thousandths or two to
ensure clearance (meaning the tolerance above may be .009 or .008).
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Positional Tolerancing on an MMC Basis

⇒ Position tolerances are often specified on a maximum material condition basis.
- When the feature is at its maximum material condition size, the position tolerance
must be held as specified within the feature control frame.
- As the feature departs from its maximum material condition and approaches its
least material condition size, the position tolerance is allowed to increase.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, if the hole (as inspected) has a diameter of 1.002,
there is a bonus tolerance of
.007. This increases the
specified position tolerance
of .003 to .010.

Determining Whether Feature is Within Specified Position Tolerance Zone

⇒ The table, on the next page, converts coordinate measurements to a position location.
- The scale across the table bottom (X axis) represents the distance of the feature
from its true position along the X-axis. The scale on the side of the table (Y Axis)
represents the distance of the feature from its true position along the Y-axis.
- The values in the table itself represent the diameter that the position tolerance
zone would have to be in order for the feature to be acceptable at a given set of X
and Y coordinates.
⇒ If the number in the table is equal to or less than the specified position tolerance after
applicable bonus tolerances have been added, then the hole is acceptable.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, if the hole were actually produced at 1.252 from
datum B and 1.254 from datum A, it would
be .002 from true position on the X-axis and
.004 from true position on the Y-axis. In the
table, the intersection of these coordinates is
.0089. If the actual hole diameter is 1.002,
there is a bonus tolerance of .007,
increasing the position tolerance zone to a
diameter of .010. This is larger than .0089,
so the hole is acceptable.
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Position Tolerancing with Datum Feature at MMC

⇒ When a datum feature is controlled on a maximum material condition basis, it can
also provide a bonus tolerance.

CAUTION – When using modifiers with the reference datum, be sure you fully
understand the impact it will have on the feature location.

EXAMPLE: In the example below, if any one of the small holes or the datum feature
(the center hole) is produced at a size approaching its least material condition, a bonus
tolerance is allowed for that particular hole. For example, if a small hole is produced at
a diameter of .249, there is a bonus tolerance of .004. If the datum feature is produced at
a diameter of .751, there is a bonus tolerance of .006. The total bonus tolerance is .010,
which increases the specified position tolerance to .013 for that particular hole.

Projected Tolerance Zone

⇒ A projected tolerance zone is a position tolerance zone that is extended to a
specified height above a hole.
⇒ It is sometimes specified for threaded or press-fit holes when there’s a chance that
variation in the perpendicularity of the hole could cause fasteners to interfere with
mating parts.
⇒ The projected tolerance zone encompasses the extended portion of the fastener and
prevents interference with the mating part.
⇒ You specify a projected tolerance zone, by placing its identifier p followed by the
distance the zone is to be extended, immediately after the geometric tolerance in the
feature control frame, see below.
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Composite Position Tolerance

⇒ A composite position tolerance controls the location of a pattern of features, as well
as the relationship of the features within the pattern.
⇒ The feature control frame contains two position tolerances:
- The upper tolerance controls the location of the feature pattern.
- The lower tolerance controls the relationship of features within the pattern.
EXAMPLE: In the example on
the right, the upper position
tolerance states that when the
holes are in their maximum
material condition, they are to be
positioned within six related
cylindrical tolerance zones that
are .005 in diameter, with respect
to datums A, B, and C. The lower
tolerance states that at MMC each
hole is to be positioned within a
.002 cylindrical tolerance zone
with respect to datum A.

⇒ When a part feature is controlled by a position tolerance, as well as another geometric

tolerance (usually an orientation tolerance), the tolerances appear in a multiple feature
control frame.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the position tolerance means that, when the holes
are in their maximum material condition, they are each to be positioned within a .010
cylindrical tolerance zone with respect to datums A, B, and C. The perpendicularity
tolerance means that at MMC the holes are to be perpendicular within a .008
cylindrical tolerance zone to datum A.
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Control of Co-Axial Features

- Co-axial features are features that share the same axis.
- One feature establishes a datum axis; the axis of the other feature is controlled.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the position tolerance states that when the controlled
feature is at its maximum material condition size, its axis must lie within a .005
cylindrical tolerance zone established by datum feature A at its maximum material
condition size.

Verifying Position Tolerances

⇒ Position tolerances can be verified by many methods, including functional gauging, a
coordinate measuring machine, an open inspection set-up, or optical methods.
⇒ For position tolerances specified on an MMC basis, functional gauging is most
efficient.
- A functional gage verifies position and one end of the size range.
- The functional gage must equal to the virtual condition of controlled feature.
Type of feature Virtual Condition
External MMC size plus position tolerance
Internal MMC size minus position tolerance
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CONCENTRICITY (Do not use)

Concentricity is a very restrictive geometric control. A specified tolerance controls the
amount of eccentricity error, parallelism of axis, out-of-straightness of axis, out-of-
circularity, out-of-cylindricity, and any other possible errors at the feature axis;
therefore, it is difficult to verify and may be excessively expensive.
Concentricity is considered when critical axis-to-axis control is required for dynamically
balanced features. This control is to be selectively specified, because features may be
better controlled with runout or position.
⇒ Concentricity describes the relationship between the axes of two or more cylindrical
features. Perfect concentricity exists when the axes coincide.
⇒ A concentricity tolerance controls the relationship between cylindrical features by
controlling their shared axis.
⇒ One cylindrical feature is used to establish a datum axis and a cylindrical tolerance
zone. The axis of the controlled feature must lie within the tolerance zone.
⇒ Concentricity is always RFS so no modifiers (MMC or LMC) are to be used.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the concentricity tolerance states that the axis of the
controlled feature must lie within a 0.4 cylindrical zone established by datum A.

Verifying Concentricity Tolerances

⇒ Concentricity tolerances are typically verified with a dial indicator while the part
is rotated on its datum axis.
⇒ The FIM cannot exceed the specified concentricity tolerance.
⇒ If the FIM does exceed concentricity tolerance, then variation could be due to a
form error, such as circularity.
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SYMMETRY (Do not use)

Symmetry is like concentricity for non-cylindrical features; therefore, it is difficult to
verify and may be excessively expensive. POSITION WOULD BE THE BETTER
CONTROL.
⇒ Symmetry is always RFS so no modifiers (MMC or LMC) are to be used.
⇒ Perfect symmetry exists when the median points of the feature’s correspondingly
located surfaces lie in the same plane.
⇒ A symmetry tolerance zone is the distance between two parallel planes centered
around a datum center plane. The median points of the correspondingly located
feature surfaces must lie between the planes.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the symmetry tolerance means that the center plane
of the slot must lie within a .020 tolerance zone with respect to datum A.

⇒ Symmetry tolerancing is typically used:

- To control non-cylindrical part features, such as slots, tabs, and projections.
- When the mass of a part feature must be centered.
- To ensure that wall thickness, balance, and strength are equally distributed.
Verifying Symmetry Tolerances
⇒ May require extensive analysis.
⇒ A coordinate measuring machine may be needed to establish the median points
between opposed part feature surfaces.
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ORIENTATION TOLERANCES
⇒ The following geometric characteristics are classified as orientation tolerances:

Perpendicularity

Angularity

Parallelism
⇒ Orientation tolerances control the relationship of a part feature to one or more datums.
They specify how far the part feature is allowed to vary with respect to the datum.
⇒ Orientation tolerances are a refinement of the location tolerance and should
always be less than the governing location tolerance.

PERPENDICULARITY
⇒ Perpendicularity refers to a part surface, center plane, or axis that is 90º to a
datum plane or axis: therefore, a datum reference is required.
⇒ A perpendicularity tolerance specifies how far from 90º the feature is allowed to
vary with respect to the datum plane or axis.
⇒ Depending on the application, a perpendicularity tolerance zone may be:
- Cylindrical and perpendicular to a datum plane
- Distance between two parallel planes perpendicular to a datum plane or axis
- Distance between two parallel lines perpendicular to a datum plane or axis
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the perpendicularity tolerance means that the
entire indicated surface must lie within a .004 wide tolerance zone that is
perpendicular to datum plane A.
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EXAMPLE: In the example below, the perpendicularity tolerance means that the
center plane of the slot must lie within a .005 wide tolerance zone that is
perpendicular to datum plane A.

EXAMPLE: In the example below, the perpendicularity tolerance means that the
axis of the controlled feature must lie within a 0.1 wide tolerance zone that is
perpendicular to datum axis A.
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EXAMPLE: In the example below, adding the MMC modifier will mean that the .003
tolerance zone will apply only when the feature is at its maximum material condition size
of .255. If the inspector discovers that the actual feature size is within the size tolerance,
but not at MMC, he will be able to adjust the tolerance on the spot. The adjustment will
be equal to the amount of deviation from MMC.

ANOTHER EXAMPLE: If, at inspection, the actual feature size is found to be n.248
then the inspector can adjust the perpendicularity tolerance by adding the equal amount
of deviation of the feature from MMC (the bonus) to the perpendicularity tolerance. In
this example, the inspector would be able to add .007 to the perpendicularity tolerance,
increasing the tolerance to .010.

Inspecting for Perpendicularity

⇒ Perpendicularity of surface
- Checked with an angle plate and dial indicator.
- FIM cannot exceed the specified perpendicularity tolerance.
⇒ Perpendicularity of cylindrical feature (MMC basis)
- Checked with functional gage.
- Gage should equal feature’s virtual condition.
- Virtual condition of external feature is MMC plus geometric tolerance.
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ANGULARITY
⇒ Angularity refers to a part surface, center plane, or axis at a specified angle other
than 90º to a datum plane or axis.
⇒ The angular dimension is always a basic dimension.
⇒ An angularity tolerance states how far from the specified angle the part feature is
allowed to vary with respect to the datum plane or axis.
⇒ Depending on the application, an angularity tolerance zone may be:
- Distance between two parallel planes at a specified basic angle from a datum
plane or axis
- Distance between two parallel straight lines at a specified basic angle from a
datum plane or axis

NOTE – Although ASME Y14.5 states that a cylindrical tolerance zone can
now be used with angularity (in the previous release this was not true), we at
Cameron will continue NOT to do so. Angularity will apply only to the view
on which it is specified. DO NOT USE A CYLINDRICAL TOLERANCE
ZONE WITH ANGULARITY.

EXAMPLE: In the example below, the angularity tolerance means that the feature
axis must lie within a 0.2 wide tolerance zone at 45º to datum plane A.
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EXAMPLE: In the example below, the angularity tolerance means that the entire
indicated surface must lie within a .005 wide tolerance zone at 30º to datum plane A.

Inspecting for Angularity

⇒ Inspection set-up depends on part configuration.
⇒ Generally requires a sine plate or sine bar and a dial indicator.
⇒ FIM (TIR) cannot exceed the specified angularity tolerance.
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PARALLELISM
⇒ Parallelism refers to:
- A surface or center plane that is equal distance at all points from a datum plane.
- An axis whose entire length is an equal distance from a datum plane or datum
axis.
⇒ A parallelism tolerance specifies how far the surface, center plane, or axis is allowed
to vary from the specified datum.
⇒ Depending on the application, a parallelism tolerance zone may be:
- Cylindrical and parallel to a datum plane or axis
- Distance between two parallel planes that are parallel to a datum plane or axis
- Distance between two parallel lines that are parallel to a datum plane or axis
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the parallelism tolerance means that the indicated
surface must lie within a .010 wide tolerance zone that is parallel to datum plane A.

EXAMPLE: In the example below, the parallelism tolerance means that the axis of the
controlled feature must lie within a .05 wide tolerance zone that is parallel to datum
plane A.
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EXAMPLE: In the example below, the axis of the hole must lie within a .003 wide
cylindrical tolerance zone that is parallel to datum axis A.

Inspecting for Parallelism

⇒ Inspection set-up depends on part configuration.
⇒ Generally, parallelism can be verified using a surface plate and dial indicator.
⇒ FIM (TIR) cannot exceed the specified parallelism tolerance.
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PROFILE TOLERANCES
⇒ A profile tolerance is usually used to control or define an irregular curve or an
unusual part profile.
⇒ Profile controls feature size as well as shape.
⇒ A profile is a two-dimensional outline of a part feature from a top, side or front view.
⇒ On drawings, it is defined by basic dimensions in the form of sizes, radii, angles, or
arcs.

⇒ A profile tolerance specifies a uniform boundary along the true profile within which
the part feature surface must lie.
⇒ There are two types of profile tolerances:
- Profile of a surface
- Profile of a line

PROFILE OF A SURFACE
⇒ A profile of a surface tolerance controls the entire length and width of a part feature.
⇒ The 3-dimensional tolerance zone lies parallel to the true profile.
⇒ Usually profile of a surface requires datum references.
⇒ Profile of a surface tolerances are usually applied to:
- Parts with a uniform cross-section.
- Parts with a surface of revolution, such as a cam.
EXAMPLE: In the example on the
right, the profile of a surface
tolerance means that the entire
indicated surface must lie within a
.008 wide tolerance zone that is
perpendicular to datum A and
positioned with respect to datum B.
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PROFILE OF A LINE
⇒ A profile of a line tolerance controls the profile of individual cross-sections, rather
than the entire surface as a single entity.
⇒ The 2-dimensional tolerance zone is parallel to the true profile.
⇒ Profile of a line tolerances are usually applied to parts with a variable cross-section,
such as an aircraft wing, a propeller, etc.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the profile of a line tolerance means that the profile
of any individual cross-section must lie within a .010 wide tolerance zone with respect to
datums A and B.

METHODS OF SPECIFYING PROFILE TOLERANCES

⇒ A bilateral profile tolerance is equally divided on both sides of the true profile. This
profile is allowed to vary by .005 on each side of the true profile with respect to
datum A.
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⇒ A bilateral profile tolerance is unequally divided. This profile is allowed to vary by

.002 outside the true profile and by .008 inside, with respect to datum A.

⇒ A unilateral profile tolerance applies to only one side of the true profile. This
profile is allowed to vary by .010 inside the true profile, with respect to datum A.

⇒ An “all around” symbol on the leader from the feature control frame means that the
specified profile tolerance applies to the entire part outline, not just a single part
feature.
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⇒ When a profile tolerance applies to only a portion of the profile, letters are used to
identify the portion. Here, the profile between points X and Y must lie within a .005
wide tolerance zone with respect to datum A.

VERIFYING PROFILE TOLERANCES

⇒ Profile of a surface tolerance
- Usually checked with dial indicator.
- FIM (TIR) cannot exceed specified profile tolerance.
- Alternative: optical comparator, but it shows only high points of surface.
⇒ Profile of a line tolerance
- Optical comparator sometimes most efficient.
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COPLANAR SURFACES
⇒ Coplanarity is the condition of two or more surfaces having all elements in one plane.
⇒ Control provided is similar to that achieved by a flatness tolerance applied to a single
plane surface.
⇒ Profile of surface is used as the controlling geometric characteristic to specify
coplanarity of two or more surfaces where it is desired to treat these surfaces as a
single interrupted or non-continuous surface.
⇒ It can be applied as an independent control of form (not referencing a datum) or as a
combined control of from and orientation with respect to a datum feature or axis.
EXAMPLE: The profile of surface tolerance establishes a tolerance zone defined by
two parallel planes within which the considered surfaces must lie. No datum reference is
stated (as in the case of flatness); the datum is established by the surfaces themselves.

3.00`.03

The surfaces must meet the specified size tolerance and both must
lie between two parallel planes .010 apart (worst cases are shown.

EXAMPLE: Where more than two surfaces are involved, it may be desirable to identify
a specific surface to be used as a datum and to establish the tolerance zone. It should be
understood that the tolerance zone established will be bilateral.

The surfaces must meet the specified size tolerance and all must lie between
two parallel planes .010 apart as established by datum A (worst cases are
shown).
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RUNOUT TOLERANCES
⇒ Runout is the deviation of a part surface from the desired form and orientation as it
rotates 360º around a datum axis.
⇒ The controlled surface may be cylindrical, tapered, or perpendicular to the datum
axis.

⇒ A runout tolerance specifies how much the part surface is allowed to vary in relation
to the datum axis. Therefore, a datum reference is always required.
⇒ No modifiers are used, the tolerance is always implied RFS.
⇒ There are two types of runout.

CIRCULAR RUNOUT
⇒ A circular runout tolerance controls the relationship of individual circular elements of
the part feature to a datum axis.
EXAMPLE: In the example on the right, the
circular runout tolerance on the OD means that
when the part is rotated 360º, each circular
element of the feature surface must be within a
.020 wide tolerance zone (or .020 FIM/TIR) with
respect to datum axis A. The circular runout
tolerance on the face means that each circular
element of the indicated surface must be within a
.010 wide tolerance zone (or .010 FIM/TIR) with
respect to datum axis A.
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TOTAL RUN0UT
⇒ A total runout tolerance controls the relationship of the entire feature surface to a
datum axis.
EXAMPLE: In the example below, the total runout tolerance means that when the part
is rotated 360°, the entire indicated surface must be within a .020 wide tolerance zone (or
.020 FIM/TIR) with respect to datum axis A.

VERIFYING RUNOUT TOLERANCES

⇒ Mount the part to establish the datum axis.
⇒ Place a dial indicator at 90º to the controlled surface.
⇒ Rotate the part 360º.
⇒ The FIM cannot exceed the specified runout tolerance.
⇒ Measure again at various positions.
- For circular runout, re-zero the indicator at each measuring point.
- For total runout, do not re-zero the indicator.
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GLOSSARY
ALLOWANCE – The difference in size between mating features in an assembly.

ANGULARITY – (See the Orientation Tolerances section)

BARRELLED – The condition of a cylindrical feature where it bulges in the center and
tapers down to the ends.

BASIC DIMENSION – (See the Basic Principles section)

BILATERAL TOLERANCE –A tolerance specified by the designer that permits a

dimension variation in two directions, e.g., plus or minus 0.5.

BOUNDARY OF PERFECT FORM – The condition (envelope) of true geometric form

represented by the drawing.

CHARACTERISTIC – An integral part (a symbol) of the geometric dimensioning and

tolerancing system or a feature of a part or an assembly.

CHECKING FIXTURE – A go and no-go type gage used to verify features.

CIRCULARITY –(See the Form Tolerances section)

CIRCULAR RUNOUT – (See the Runout Tolerances section)

CLEARANCE FIT – A condition in which mating parts fit together regardless of their
material condition.

COAXIALITY – The condition where two or more axis are in alignment with each
other.

COMPOSITE FEATURE CONTROL FRAME – (See the Location Tolerances

section, Position)

CONCENTRICITY – (See the Location Tolerances section)

CONICAL – Cone-shaped.

CONTOUR TOLERANCING – (See the Profile Tolerances section)

COORDINATE – A set of numbers used to specify or determine the location from an X

and Y axis of a point, line, curve, or plane.

COORDINATE MEASURING MACHINE (CMM) – An electronically controlled

machine used to determine the location or condition of features in space. The data
generated may be printed out with a printer option.
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DATUMS
A datum is a theoretically exact point, axis, or plane from which the location or
geometric characteristic of a part feature are established. A datum feature (an actual
physical part feature that has an important functional relationship to the part feature being
controlled) establishes a datum.

DATUM FEATURE SYMBOL

⇒ The datum feature symbol consists of a capital letter enclosed in a square frame, a
leader line extending from the frame to the concerned feature, a triangle at the
termination of the leader line as shown in the example below:

⇒ Each datum requiring identification is assigned a different reference letter. Do not

use letters I, O or Q. If the single letter alphabet is exhausted, double letters may be
used, i.e., AA, AB, etc.
⇒ When a datum feature symbol is repeated to identify the same feature in other
locations of a drawing, it need not be identified as reference.

DATUM PLACEMENT ON PLANE SURFACES (not a feature of size)

When using a singular surface as a datum, the datum symbol should be placed on the
outline of the surface or an extension line of the feature outline. When sharing an
extension line of a dimension to or from the surface being designated as the datum,
the datum symbol should be clearly separated from the dimension line, see below:

Extension line
There must be
clear separation
↔ between symbol
and dimension
line

Dimension line
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CYLINDRICITY – (See the Form Tolerances section)

DATUM – (See the Basic Principles section)

DATUM AXIS – An axis established by a cylindrical datum feature. The axis is

theoretical.

DATUM FEATURE – An actual (physical) part feature used to establish a datum.

DATUM FEATURE SYMBOL – (See the Basic Principles section, Datums)

DATUM OF SIZE – Any feature specified as a datum reference that is subject to size
variation based on plus/minus tolerances such as widths or diameters.

DATUM PLANE – A theoretically exact plane established with fixtures or gages when
in contact with the counterpart of actual datum features.

DATUM POINT – A theoretically exact point specified with a datum target of little or
no size that has position on a surface for functional gaging purposes.

DATUM REFERENCE – (See the Basic Principles section, Feature Control Frames)

DATUM REFERENCE FRAME – The perpendicular intersection of the primary,

secondary and tertiary datum planes.

DATUM TARGET – A specified point, line or area on a part which is used to establish
datums.

ECCENTRIC – A condition where two or more features do not have a common axis.

FEATURE – The term given to any physical portion of a part, e.g., surface, hole or pin.

FEATURE CONTROL FRAME – (See the Basic Principles section)

FEATURE OF SIZE – (See the Basic Principles section, Modifiers)

FLATNESS – (See the Form Tolerances section)

FORM TOLERANCES – A category of geometric tolerances, which control the shape

of a feature. Form tolerances include Flatness, Straightness, Circularity and
Cylindricity.

FULL INDICATOR MOVEMENT – This term replaces the older term, Full Indicator
Reading (FIR). It is the full movement of an indicator needle while measuring a feature
during a full rotation or complete travel along a feature.

GEOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS – (See the Basic Principles section)

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GEOMETRIC DIMENSIONING AND TOLERANCING (GD&T) – A modern

technical drawing language for specifying engineering design requirements with respect
to the function and relationship of part features.

GEOMETRIC TOLERANCE – (See the Basic Principles section)

INTERFERENCE FIT – A condition in which mating parts do not fit together

regardless of their material condition.

KNEE – A piece of equipment used to rest parts against during machining and
inspection operations.

LEAST MATERIAL CONDITION (LMC) – (See the Basic Principles section)

LIMITS OF SIZE – The extreme minimum and maximum sizes permissible for a feature
when considering the tolerances.

LOCATION TOLERANCES – A category of geometric tolerances which control how

much a size feature is allowed to vary from an exact location in relation to a datum, a
feature or an axis. The location tolerances are Position, Concentricity and Symmetry.

MAXIMUM MATERIAL CONDITION (MMC) – (See the Basic Principles section)

MEDIAN PLANE – The center plane of a non-cylindrical feature.

MODIFIERS – (See the Basic Principles section)

OPTICAL COMPARATOR – An instrument for comparing a surface with an ideal

surface or standard.

ORIENTATION TOLERANCE – This tolerance is applicable to features that are

related to another feature. The orientation controls are Perpendicularity, Angularity,
and Parallelism. Each of these must be related to a datum feature.

ORIGIN – The location where dimensions and tolerances begin.

PARALLELISM – (See the Orientation Tolerances section)

PERPENDICULARITY – (See the Orientation Tolerances section)

PITCH – The distance from a thread point to the corresponding point of the next thread.

PLANE – A surface condition that is straight, flat, or level.

POSITION – (See the Location Tolerances section)

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PRIMARY DATUM – The datum established by at least three points of contact between
the most functionally important part feature and the machine tolling or inspection
surface. It is part of the datum reference frame.

PROFILE OF A LINE – (See the Profile Tolerances section)

PROFILE TOLERANCES – A category of geometric tolerances, which control the

outline of an object. Profile tolerances include profile of line and profile of surface.

PROJECTED TOERANCE ZONE – (See the Location Tolerances section, Position)

REGARDLESS OF FEATURE SIZE – (See the Basic Principles section)

RUNOUT – The composite variation from a desired surface during a complete rotation
of the part around the axis.

RUNOUT TOLERANCE – A specified variation for an actual feature surface or line in

relation to the axis during one complete revolution. The runout controls are Circular
Runout and Total Runout.

SECONDARY DATUM – Established by at least two points of contact between a

datum feature and the machine tooling or inspection surface; part of the datum reference
frame.

SLOPE – The inclination of a surface expressed as a ratio of the difference in heights at

each end divided by the distance between those heights.

SPHERICAL –A global body, ball, having all points equal distance from a given center
point.

STRAIGHTNESS – (See the Form Tolerances section)

SYMMETRY – (See the Location Tolerances section)

TERTIARY DATUM – Established by at least one point of contact between a datum

feature and the machine tooling or inspection surface (part of the datum reference
frame).

THREE-PLANE CONCEPT – The concept of three mutual planes exactly theoretically

90 deg and perpendicular to each other. Used for repeatable orientation.

TOTAL RUNOUT – (See the Runout Tolerances section)

TRANSITION FIT – A condition in which mating parts do not fit together in their
maximum material condition, but do fit together as they approach their least material
condition.
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TRUE POSITION – An exact (perfect) location described by basic dimensions in

relationship to a datum or other feature. The location specified on the drawing.

UNILATERAL TOLERANCE – A tolerance in which variation is allowed in only one

direction from the specified dimension.
VIRTUAL CONDITION – (See the Form Tolerances section, Straightness)