Slot dimensioning ISO standard Accurate dimensioning of slotted holes is a critical aspect of engineering design and manufacturing, ensuring parts fit together precisely and function as intendedDimensioning and Tolerancing 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 approach2015724—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 Understanding proper dimension techniques is fundamental for creating clear technical drawings that minimize ambiguity and prevent costly errorsSlot Dimensioning - Basics, ASME Y14.5M
A slotted hole, also known as a elongated hole, is a feature that combines the characteristics of a hole and a slotGeometric dimensioning & tolerancing (Part 1) Its unique shape necessitates specific dimensioning strategies to fully define its geometry, location, and tolerances The primary goal is to provide enough information for a manufacturer to create the part accuratelyHinges and Hardware 101 - Dimensioning a slotted hole
According to ASME Y142010827—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.5, there are typically three "proper" methods for dimensioning a slotOnce 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 These methods aim to clearly convey the key parameters of the slot: its width, length, and the radii of its endsChange Slot Orientation Using SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard
#### Key Parameters for Slotted Hole Dimensioning:
1Once 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 Width: This refers to the shortest distance across the slotHello! I need todimension a slotted holein two different ways, as a linear profiledimensionand true position. I measure theslotted holein the same way.
2Principles of Dimensioning | Engineering Design Length: This defines the overall length of the slot, including the radii at the endsApply mainly in precisely fine tuning for uncontrollabledimensionbeforehand, alignment accuracy, fixation in certain direction meanwhile keeping slipping free
3Slots are dimensioned by giving their overall dimensions. Or, by giving the overall width and the distance between centers. The radii are indicated but the Radius of Ends: The curved portions at either end of the slotDimensioning and Tolerancing
4Principles of Dimensioning | Engineering Design Centerline Location: The position of the slot's centerline relative to datums or other featuresForslotted holeswith fully rounded ends. The radii (plural) are indicated but notdimension. The related picture to this section shows 2X
Several approaches can be employed to dimension a slotted hole, each with its advantages20231018—For thehole, I just used LinearDimension, added a tolerance and then added Position with no diametrical zone. Is there a way to reference The choice often depends on the specific application and the clarity desired in the drawing
#### Method 1: Overall Dimensions and Radii
One common technique involves providing the overall width and overall length of the slotted holeChange Slot Orientation Using SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard The radii of the end curves are also indicatedTrue Position – Position Tolerance For instance, a slot might be dimensioned with its total length and its total width The radii are crucial for defining the shape of the semicircular ends2015724—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 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 point
#### 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 pointsDetail dimensioning (How to dimension various features).Holes are typically dimensioned in a view which best describes the shape of the hole. Diameters must be This is a very common approach, especially in CAD software like SOLIDWORKS, where it can be the default methodHow to dimension a slot in a drawing? This method clearly defines the slot's straight-sided length and its width, with the implied radii forming the rounded endsinstructional for slotted holes - RS Online For example, a dimension might show the width and then a separate dimension for the distance between the centers of the two semicircular ends
#### Method 3: Centerline Dimensions and Width
In some cases, slotted holes can be dimensioned by indicating the location of their centerlines and the overall widthProper Dimensioning of a slot on a flat surface This method is particularly useful when the precise positioning of the slot is paramountPrinciples of Dimensioning | Engineering Design The hole itself is then defined by its width and the location of its centerlineHow to dimension slotted holes?
Beyond the fundamental methods, several advanced considerations enhance the clarity and precision of slotted hole dimensioningForslotted holeswith fully rounded ends. The radii (plural) are indicated but notdimension. The related picture to this section shows 2X
#### Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
For applications requiring high precision, GD&T principles are invaluableinstructional for slotted holes - RS Online When using GD&T for slotted holes, you can specify positional tolerances to control the location of the slot's features more accuratelyHow does a dimension like "2-Ø12X25L" describe an oval This can be done using true position to define the allowable deviation from the theoretically exact location GD&T can also be used to control the form, orientation, and flatness of the slotted holeHow to dimension a slot in a drawing?
#### CAD Software and Best Practices
Modern CAD software, including SOLIDWORKS, offers tools to simplify slotted hole dimensioningHow to dimension this? r/cad While the software often defaults to specific methods (like dimensioning to centers), users can adjust these2025103—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 For instance, in SOLIDWORKS, you can drag dimension grip points to the perimeter of arcs to dimension to the edge rather than the centerHoldingslot/holetolerances are much easier than positional tolerances. Are you using a 10mm diameter tool? Congrats, you're in tolerance. On When designing complex assemblies, ensure that slotted holes are dimensioned to be repeatable and easily manufacturedHello! I need todimension a slotted holein two different ways, as a linear profiledimensionand true position. I measure theslotted holein the same way. For non-plated slots, a recommended minimum size is often 3x3mm, though this can vary based on applicationOnce 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
#### Documenting Dimensions
It's good practice to write the dimension of the slotted hole in the documentation layer of your drawingHinges and Hardware 101 - Dimensioning a slotted hole This ensures the dimensions are clear and separate from other graphical elementsHow to dimension slotted holes? The shape and its associated dimensions should be explicitly shown2025103—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
#### Origin and Referencing
When specifying the location of slotted holes, try referencing your dimensions from the origin or established datumsApply mainly in precisely fine tuning for uncontrollabledimensionbeforehand, alignment accuracy, fixation in certain direction meanwhile keeping slipping free If a feature is symmetrical about an axis, drawing one half and using a mirror command can simplify the process and reduce potential errors2019108—By default we currentlydimensionto the centers of arcs/circles - but you can drag thosedimensiongrip points out to the perimeter of the arcs. This is particularly helpful for ensuring alignment accuracyWrite 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).
#### Specific Standards and Variations
While ASME Y14Proper Dimensioning of a slot on a flat surface5 is a widely followed standard, other international standards may exist, such as ISO standards for slot dimensioning2010827—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. 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 dimensionsLocations of the gage pins orholesare given on the drawing as basicdimensions. All gage features should be located at the true positions but sized according
#### 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 drewGD&T in precision engineering using slots This clearly specifies the angular relationshipForslotted holeswith fully rounded ends. The radii (plural) are indicated but notdimension. The related picture to this section shows 2X
* Over-dimensioning: Providing redundant or conflicting dimensions can lead to confusion and errorsDimensioning a slotted hole - PC-DMIS Vision
* Ambiguous Dimensions: Ensure all dimensions are clearly readable and their intent is unambiguousTry referencing your dimensions from the origin. If this is symmetrical about the Y-axis - draw one side, then use mirror.
* Ignoring Tolerances: Failing to specify appropriate tolerances can result in parts that do not fit or function correctlyLooking for a deeper explanation on the pin-slot alignment
* Confusing Slot Types: Differentiate between through-slotted holes, blind slots, and other variations, as their dimensioning may differHello! I need todimension a slotted holein two different ways, as a linear profiledimensionand true position. I measure theslotted holein the same way.
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 performance202465—I am dimensioning asloton a flat surface to send a part out for CnC milling. I am unsure theproperformat for dimensioning theslot. Remember, clear and precise dimensions are the foundation of effective engineering communication
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