What is tolerance in engineering?

Tolerance in engineering is the acceptable limit of variation from a specified dimension or value. It defines the range within which a manufactured part or component must fall to be considered acceptable.

What is the difference between percentage and absolute tolerance?

Percentage tolerance is calculated as a percentage of the nominal value (e.g., 5% of 100mm = ±5mm), while absolute tolerance is a fixed value regardless of the nominal size (e.g., always ±0.1mm).

How do I calculate upper and lower tolerance limits?

Upper limit = Nominal value + Tolerance amount, Lower limit = Nominal value - Tolerance amount. The tolerance amount is either a percentage of the nominal value or an absolute value depending on your specification.

What units should I use for tolerance calculations?

Choose units that are appropriate for your application and measurement system. Common units include millimeters (mm), centimeters (cm), meters (m), inches (in), and feet (ft).

Why are tolerances important in manufacturing?

Tolerances ensure that manufactured parts will fit together properly, function as intended, and meet quality standards. They help control costs by allowing for manufacturing variations while maintaining functionality.

How do I choose appropriate tolerance values?

Consider factors such as manufacturing capabilities, measurement accuracy, functional requirements, cost implications, and industry standards. Tighter tolerances generally increase manufacturing costs.

Tolerance Calculator

Calculate engineering and manufacturing tolerances with precision

Tolerance Calculation

Nominal Value

Tolerance Type

Tolerance Value

Unit

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How to Use This Calculator

Enter Nominal Value

Input the nominal or target value for which you want to calculate tolerances. This is the ideal or specified value.

Select Tolerance Type

Choose between percentage-based tolerance (relative to nominal value) or absolute tolerance (fixed value).

Enter Tolerance Value

Specify the tolerance amount. For percentage type, enter the percentage (e.g., 5 for 5%). For absolute type, enter the fixed tolerance value.

Select Unit

Choose the appropriate unit for your calculation (millimeters, centimeters, meters, inches, or feet).

View Results

The calculator will display the upper limit, lower limit, and tolerance amount for your specifications.

Tolerance Calculation Tips

Tolerance represents the acceptable variation from the nominal value in manufacturing and engineering

Upper limit = Nominal value + Tolerance amount

Lower limit = Nominal value - Tolerance amount

Percentage tolerance scales with the nominal value, while absolute tolerance remains fixed

Choose appropriate tolerance units that match your measurement system

Consider manufacturing capabilities when setting tolerance values

Tighter tolerances increase manufacturing costs and complexity

Always specify tolerances clearly in engineering drawings and specifications

Use statistical process control to monitor tolerance compliance

Consider measurement uncertainty when setting tolerance limits

Frequently Asked Questions

Tolerance Calculator

Calculate engineering and manufacturing tolerances with precision

Tolerance Calculation

Nominal Value

Tolerance Type

Tolerance Value

Unit

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