What does the term "tolerance" refer to in manufacturing?

The term "tolerance" in manufacturing specifically refers to the permissible limit of variation in a physical dimension. This concept is crucial because it defines the acceptable range within which a particular measurement can deviate from its target value while still maintaining functionality and quality. For example, if a part is designed to be 10 mm in diameter, a tolerance might allow it to measure between 9.95 mm and 10.05 mm. This ensures that parts fit together correctly during assembly and are compatible with other components.

Understanding and specifying tolerances is essential in manufacturing, as it affects the performance, reliability, and longevity of the final product. Tighter tolerances often require more precise manufacturing processes and can increase costs, while looser tolerances might reduce costs but could affect performance. Therefore, appropriate tolerance levels must be set based on the design requirements and manufacturing capabilities.