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Tolerance & Fit Chart

Complete ISO tolerance and fit standards chart with clearance, transition, and interference fits. Essential reference for precision CNC machining and mechanical engineering applications.

Understanding ISO Tolerance & Fit Systems

The ISO tolerance system provides standardized methods for specifying dimensional tolerances and fits between mating parts. This system ensures interchangeability and proper function of mechanical assemblies across different manufacturers and applications.

Fits are classified into three main categories: clearance fits (always have clearance), interference fits (always have interference), and transition fits (may have either clearance or interference depending on actual manufactured dimensions).

ISO Fits & Applications

FitTypeDescriptionMin Clearance (mm)Max Clearance (mm)Application
H11/c11ClearanceLoose running fit+0.06+0.18Large temperature variations, high running speeds
H9/d9ClearanceFree running fit+0.025+0.075General machinery, pumps, textile machinery
H8/f7ClearanceClose running fit+0.01+0.04Precision machinery, automotive applications
H7/g6ClearanceSliding fit+0.005+0.02Accurate location, easy assembly
H7/h6ClearanceLocational clearance0+0.015Snug fit for location only
H7/js6TransitionLocational transition-0.008+0.008Accurate location, light assembly forces
H7/k6TransitionLocational transition-0.012+0.003More accurate location than js6
H7/m6TransitionLocational transition-0.02-0.005Accurate location, some interference
H7/n6TransitionLocational interference-0.025-0.01Light drive fit, hand assembly
H7/p6InterferenceLight drive fit-0.035-0.02Light assembly forces, permanent assembly
H7/s6InterferenceMedium drive fit-0.05-0.035Ordinary steel parts, cast iron hubs
H7/t6InterferenceTight drive fit-0.065-0.05Heavy steel parts, shrink fits
H7/u6InterferenceForce fit-0.08-0.065Parts requiring high stress, permanent assembly
H6/s5InterferencePress fit-0.04-0.025Precision press fits, bearing races

ISO Tolerance Grades (IT)

GradeTolerance (mm)Typical Application
IT01±0.0003Ultra precision gauge blocks
IT0±0.0005Precision gauge blocks
IT1±0.0008Very high precision measuring tools
IT2±0.0012High precision measuring tools
IT3±0.0018High precision work, gauges
IT4±0.0027High precision work, broaching
IT5±0.004High precision work, grinding, honing
IT6±0.006Medium precision work, turning, boring
IT7±0.01Medium precision work, turning, boring
IT8±0.014General precision work, milling
IT9±0.025General precision work, drilling
IT10±0.04General work, rough turning
IT11±0.06Rough work, rough turning
IT12±0.1Very rough work, stamping

Clearance Fits

Always provide clearance between mating parts. Used where parts must move relative to each other.

  • • Running fits
  • • Sliding fits
  • • Locational clearance

Transition Fits

May result in either clearance or interference depending on actual part dimensions.

  • • Locational fits
  • • Push fits
  • • Light press fits

Interference Fits

Always provide interference between mating parts. Used for permanent assemblies.

  • • Press fits
  • • Drive fits
  • • Shrink fits

Practical Guidelines for CNC Machining

Hole Basis System (H)

Most common system where the hole tolerance is fixed and shaft tolerance varies.

  • • Easier to machine holes to standard sizes
  • • Standard reamers and drills available
  • • Recommended for most applications

Shaft Basis System (h)

Alternative system where shaft tolerance is fixed and hole tolerance varies.

  • • Used when shaft is standard size
  • • Common in bearing applications
  • • Requires custom hole tooling

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