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Geometrical Tolerancing
Reference Standards
BS ISO 1101:1983 Technical Drawings - Geometrical tolerancing - Tolerancing of form, orientation,
location and run-out - Generalities, definitions, symbols, indications on drawings
BS ISO 5459:1981 Technical Drawings - Geometrical tolerancing - Datums and datum-systems for
geometrical tolerances
Introduction
The notes below relate to use of geometric tolerances on drawing. The notes are outline in nature to
provide general guidance. This subject is complex and it is wise to consult the standards and have a
clear understanding of what is required when including geometric tolerances on technical
drawings. There are clear differences between ANSI Y14.5 and the above noted ISO standard. The
notes below do not address this difference or refer to the ANSI standard in any way.
Geometric Tolerances
Geometric tolerances specify the maximum variation that is allowed in form or position from true
geometry. The geometric tolerance is, in essence, the width or diameter of tolerance zone within
which a surface or axis of hole or cylinder can lie which results in resulting feature being acceptable
for proper function and interchangeability.
If a tolerance of form is not specified on a drawing for a feature, then the feature as made will be
acceptable regardless of form variation. The tolerances of form control straightness, flatness,
parallelism, angular displacement etc. etc.
The area between two equidistant lines or between two parallel straight lines
Indication of datum
The tolerance value..If the tolerance zone is circular or cylinderical it is preceded with a
Letters for datums when the toleranced feature is specified in relation to one, or more datums.
When multiple datums are referenced in the tolerance box they are indicated as below:
The datum triangle is place on the extension of a dimension arrow when the datum feature is the axis or
medium line.
When two datums are indicated they relate to the common axis of the two features
The datum triangle can replace a dimension arrow if there is not enough room.
t Updated 19/07/2005
Note: Runout is a composite tolerance including the effects of Cylindricity, and Concentricity.
Firoz Patel Page 26 3/10/2009
Example of Total Runout
Note: Total runout is a composite tolerance including the effects of cylindricity, and concentricity, co-axiality, straightness
and parallism along the axis.