how to properly dimension a slotted hole Dimension - Slotted holedimensions in mm provides the width and the distance between the end radii center points Mastering the Art of Dimensioning Slotted Holes: A Comprehensive Guide

How to dimension aslot onadrawing Accurate dimensioning of slotted holes is a critical aspect of engineering design and manufacturing, ensuring parts fit together precisely and function as intended This guide delves into the best practices for how to properly dimension a slotted hole, drawing upon industry standards and expert insights to provide a clear, actionable approach Understanding proper dimension techniques is fundamental for creating clear technical drawings that minimize ambiguity and prevent costly errorsIn this article, we will review the basics ofslotdimensioning, recommendations from ASME Y14.5M, andslotcallout on some CAD software.

Understanding the Fundamentals of Slotted Hole Dimensioning

A slotted hole, also known as a elongated hole, is a feature that combines the characteristics of a hole and a slotHinges and Hardware 101 - Dimensioning a slotted hole Its unique shape necessitates specific dimensioning strategies to fully define its geometry, location, and tolerancesHow to dimension slotted holes? The primary goal is to provide enough information for a manufacturer to create the part accuratelyinstructional for slotted holes - RS Online

According to ASME Y142009622—This article will only cover simple slots. The first slot dimensioning method (a)provides the width and the distance between the end radii center points.5, there are typically three "proper" methods for dimensioning a slotLooking for a deeper explanation on the pin-slot alignment These methods aim to clearly convey the key parameters of the slot: its width, length, and the radii of its ends

#### Key Parameters for Slotted Hole Dimensioning:

120251216—Designingholesmanually can be tedious and increase the likelihood of mistakes. You'll need to calculatedimensions, apply tolerances, and  Width: This refers to the shortest distance across the slot

2steel interchange - AISC.org Length: This defines the overall length of the slot, including the radii at the ends20251216—Designingholesmanually can be tedious and increase the likelihood of mistakes. You'll need to calculatedimensions, apply tolerances, and 

3Hinges and Hardware 101 - Dimensioning a slotted hole Radius of Ends: The curved portions at either end of the slot2010827—There are 3 "proper" methods to dimension a slotin ASME Y14.5. SolidWorks supports all three. The default method that SolidWorks sets is to the center.

4Locations of the gage pins orholesare given on the drawing as basicdimensions. All gage features should be located at the true positions but sized according  Centerline Location: The position of the slot's centerline relative to datums or other featuresinstructional for slotted holes - RS Online

Preferred Methods for Dimensioning Slotted Holes

Several approaches can be employed to dimension a slotted hole, each with its advantages The choice often depends on the specific application and the clarity desired in the drawingHow does a dimension like "2-Ø12X25L" describe an oval

#### Method 1: Overall Dimensions and Radii

One common technique involves providing the overall width and overall length of the slotted hole2025103—If you need to specify an angle for the slot(s),define an angle dimension between the slot line and the construction line you drew, instead of  The radii of the end curves are also indicatedGeometric dimensioning & tolerancing (Part 1) For instance, a slot might be dimensioned with its total length and its total width2025103—If you need to specify an angle for the slot(s),define an angle dimension between the slot line and the construction line you drew, instead of  The radii are crucial for defining the shape of the semicircular endsWhat measurements are needed to center 40mm slots? When dimensioning slotted holes with fully rounded ends, the radii are indicated but not necessarily dimensioned directly if they are implied by the overall length and width at the narrowest pointMy solution for extruded holes has been tochange the current geometry in the sketch to construction linesand draw/dimension the slots around them.

#### Method 2: Width and Centerline Distance

Another widely accepted method for dimensioning slots is to specify the width and the distance between the end radii center pointsWrite the dimension of the slotted hole in the documentation layerand it's shape, makes it easier to repeat this in the board (and not to forget). This is a very common approach, especially in CAD software like SOLIDWORKS, where it can be the default methodWrite the dimension of the slotted hole in the documentation layerand it's shape, makes it easier to repeat this in the board (and not to forget). This method clearly defines the slot's straight-sided length and its width, with the implied radii forming the rounded ends2025520—The main rules includespecifying the diameter, position, depth, and type of hole or slotusing standard symbols and dimensions. All dimensions  For example, a dimension might show the width and then a separate dimension for the distance between the centers of the two semicircular endsDimensioning of Slots in SOLIDWORKS for ASME Y14.5

#### Method 3: Centerline Dimensions and Width

In some cases, slotted holes can be dimensioned by indicating the location of their centerlines and the overall widthHow to define a slot in footprint This method is particularly useful when the precise positioning of the slot is paramount The hole itself is then defined by its width and the location of its centerlineGD&T in precision engineering using slots

Advanced Dimensioning Techniques and Considerations

Beyond the fundamental methods, several advanced considerations enhance the clarity and precision of slotted hole dimensioningHow to dimension slotted holes?

#### Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)

For applications requiring high precision, GD&T principles are invaluableWhat are the rules for dimensioning holes and slots? When using GD&T for slotted holes, you can specify positional tolerances to control the location of the slot's features more accuratelyIn this article, we will review the basics ofslotdimensioning, recommendations from ASME Y14.5M, andslotcallout on some CAD software. This can be done using true position to define the allowable deviation from the theoretically exact locationSlots are dimensioned by giving their overall dimensions. Or, by giving the overall width and the distance between centers. The radii are indicated but the  GD&T can also be used to control the form, orientation, and flatness of the slotted holeChange Slot Orientation Using SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard

#### CAD Software and Best Practices

Modern CAD software, including SOLIDWORKS, offers tools to simplify slotted hole dimensioningForslotted holeswith fully rounded ends. The radii (plural) are indicated but notdimension. The related picture to this section shows 2X  While the software often defaults to specific methods (like dimensioning to centers), users can adjust theseHow to dimension a slot in a drawing? For instance, in SOLIDWORKS, you can drag dimension grip points to the perimeter of arcs to dimension to the edge rather than the center When designing complex assemblies, ensure that slotted holes are dimensioned to be repeatable and easily manufacturedWhat measurements are needed to center 40mm slots? For non-plated slots, a recommended minimum size is often 3x3mm, though this can vary based on applicationHoldingslot/holetolerances are much easier than positional tolerances. Are you using a 10mm diameter tool? Congrats, you're in tolerance. On 

#### Documenting Dimensions

It's good practice to write the dimension of the slotted hole in the documentation layer of your drawingPrinciples of Dimensioning | Engineering Design This ensures the dimensions are clear and separate from other graphical elementsHinges and Hardware 101 - Dimensioning a slotted hole The shape and its associated dimensions should be explicitly shown2019108—By default we currentlydimensionto the centers of arcs/circles - but you can drag thosedimensiongrip points out to the perimeter of the arcs.

#### Origin and Referencing

When specifying the location of slotted holes, try referencing your dimensions from the origin or established datums2022625—For non-plated slots, rounded corner-rectangular or square slots are supported. The recommended minimum size is 3x3mm. If a feature is symmetrical about an axis, drawing one half and using a mirror command can simplify the process and reduce potential errors2015724—The 25L is the length of theslot. Because it's not a circle, you do need twodimensionsto determine its size. (Don't confuse this with bolt  This is particularly helpful for ensuring alignment accuracyDimensioning and Tolerancing

#### Specific Standards and Variations

While ASME Y14Once the shape of a part is defined with an orthographic drawings, the size information is added also in the form ofdimensions. ○ Dimensioning a drawing also 5 is a widely followed standard, other international standards may exist, such as ISO standards for slot dimensioningDimensioning of Slots in SOLIDWORKS for ASME Y14.5 For specialized applications, like those involving steel structures, organizations like AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) may have specific guidelines for slotted hole dimensions, such as the common AISC long slotted hole dimensionsDimensioning and Locating Advanced Features

#### Defining Angles

If a slotted hole needs to be oriented at a specific angle, you can define an angle dimension between the slot line and a construction line you drew2025520—The main rules includespecifying the diameter, position, depth, and type of hole or slotusing standard symbols and dimensions. All dimensions  This clearly specifies the angular relationshipsteel interchange - AISC.org

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

* Over-dimensioning: Providing redundant or conflicting dimensions can lead to confusion and errors20231018—For thehole, I just used LinearDimension, added a tolerance and then added Position with no diametrical zone. Is there a way to reference 

* Ambiguous Dimensions: Ensure all dimensions are clearly readable and their intent is unambiguousHow does a dimension like "2-Ø12X25L" describe an oval

* Ignoring Tolerances: Failing to specify appropriate tolerances can result in parts that do not fit or function correctlyOnce the shape of a part is defined with an orthographic drawings, the size information is added also in the form ofdimensions. ○ Dimensioning a drawing also 

* Confusing Slot Types: Differentiate between through-slotted holes, blind slots, and other variations, as their dimensioning may differ2025103—If you need to specify an angle for the slot(s),define an angle dimension between the slot line and the construction line you drew, instead of 

By following these guidelines and understanding the various methods available, you can ensure that your slotted holes are properly dimensioned, leading to accurate manufacturing, reliable assembly, and successful product performanceDetail dimensioning (How to dimension various features).Holes are typically dimensioned in a view which best describes the shape of the hole. Diameters must be  Remember, clear and precise dimensions are the foundation of effective engineering communicationMy solution for extruded holes has been tochange the current geometry in the sketch to construction linesand draw/dimension the slots around them.