In mechanical design engineering, we, of course, naturally strive for perfection, but in reality, that can’t always be achieved. It is generally recognised that, due to variations in the process, manufactured components differ in size from those specified in the original CAD model. In order to control these discrepancies, engineers and manufacturers alike refer to and rely on the system of GD&T.
Not to be confused with a well-known and very much loved beverage, drunk by many of us in the evenings and weekends, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), is a library of symbols to optimally control the disparity that occurs during production. Each character signifies a specific feature. Characteristics include form such as straight, flat, or circularity, orientation, such as angle variations, for example. Every manufactured part is subject to variation, and that’s why during the production of the CAD models, the minimum and maximum tolerance levels will be specified for each component.
As part of my continued professional development as a mechanical design engineer, I recently completed a two-day course on Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS), which covered topics on Geometric Tolerancing and GPS concepts issued by Deutsche Gesellshaft für Qualitӓt. It was a good reminder of the principles and rules, and an in-depth look into the areas of length, angular size measurements, form, direction, location and run-out tolerances.
Turning away from refreshing technical capabilities and returning to the refreshing beverage I mentioned earlier. In comparison to GD&T I think we would all agree that not all gin and tonics (G&T’s) are the same either.
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