Definition of Limits

Maximum and minimum permissible sizes within which the actual size of component lies are called
limits.
Limits of size

In deciding the limit for particular dimension it is necessary to consider the following:

 Functional requirement – the intended function that a component should perform

 Interchangeability – replacement of the component in case of failure without difficulty.
 Economy in production time and cost.

Tolerance

It is impossible to make anything to an exact size; therefore, it is essential to allow a definite tolerance
or permissible variation on every specified dimension.

Consider the dimensioning shown in figure. When making the part we try to achieve a diameter of
40mm. This is called the basic or nominal diameter.

The shaft will be satisfactory if its diameter lies between 40.00 + 0.05 = 40.05 mm and 40.00 – 0.05 =
39.95 mm. The dimension 40.05 mm is called upper limit and the dimension 39.95 mm is called the lower
limit. The difference between the upper and lower limits is called tolerance.
Definition of Fit

Fit is the general term used to signify the range of tightness or looseness that may result from the
application of a specific combination of allowances and tolerances in mating parts. There are three types of fits
between parts:

Types of fit and their designation

Clearance Fit:
An internal member fits in an external member (as a shaft in a hole) and always leaves a space or
clearance between the parts.
Minimum air space is 0.002”. This is the allowance and is always positive in a clearance fit.

Interference Fit:
The internal member is larger than the external member such that there is always an actual interference
of material. The smallest shaft is 1.2513” and the largest hole is 1.2506”, so that there is an actual interference
of metal amounting to at least 0.0007”. Under maximum material conditions the interference would be
0.0019”. This interference is the allowance, and in an interference fit it is always negative.

Transition Fit:

May result in either a clearance or interference condition. In the figure below, the smallest shaft
1.2503” will fit in the largest hole 1.2506”, with 0.003” to spare. But the largest shaft, 1.2509” will have to be
forced into the smallest hole, 1.2500” with an interference of metal of 0.009”.

The parts must always be forced together.

Tolerance
 Tolerance is the total amount that a specific dimension is permitted to vary;
 It is the difference between the maximum and the minimum limits for the dimension.
 For Example a dimension given as 1.625 ± .002 means that the manufactured part may be
1.627” or 1.623”, or anywhere between these limit dimensions.
 The Tolerance is 0.001” for the Hole as well as for the Shaft