Pen Sizes and Line Types

The ISO defines a set of standard metric line widths for drafting.

Like the ISO A and B series sheet sizes, the pen sizes increase by a factor of 2. This allows
additions and corrections to be made on the enlargements or reductions of drawings.

Each width is assigned a color code. The color code corresponds to that for the matching
lettering stencil.

Line widths and color codes are standardized across all manufacturers.

Line Types

Letter Type of Line Line Thickness Application

(mm)
    A0 A1 A2  
A3
A4
A Continuous - thick 0.7 0.5 0.35  Visible outlines

 
B Continuous - thin
 
0.35 0.25 0.18  Fictitious outlines
 Imaginary intersection of
surfaces
 Dimension lines,
projection lines,
intersection lines and
leaders
 Hatching
 Outlines of revolved
sections
 Adjacent parts and tooling
 Fold and tangent bend
lines
 Short centerlines

C Continuous - thin, freehand or 0.35 0.25 0.18  Indication of repeated

ruled with zig-zag detail
 Break lines (other than on
an axis)

 
D Dashed - medium 0.50 0.35 0.25  Hidden outlines

 
E Chain - thin 0.35 0.25 0.18  Centerlines
 Pitch lines
 Alternative position of
moving part
 Path lines for indicating
  movement
 Features in front of a
cutting plane
 Developed views
 Material to be removed

F Chain - thick at ends and at 0.7 0.5 0.35  Cutting planes

change of direction, thin 0.35 0.25 0.18
elsewhere
  
G Chain - thick 0.7 0.5 0.35  Indication of surfaces to
meet special requirements