DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 129-1

ISO/TC 10/SC 1 Secretariat: SN

Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:

2010-03-17 2010-08-17
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION • МЕЖДУНАРОДНАЯ ОРГАНИЗАЦИЯ ПО СТАНДАРТИЗАЦИИ • ORGANISATION INTERNATIONALE DE NORMALISATION

Technical drawings — Indication of dimensions and

tolerances —
Part 1:
General principles
Dessins techniques — Indication des cotes et tolérances —

Partie 1: Principes généraux

[Revision of first edition (ISO 129-1:2004)]

ICS 01.100.01

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© International Organization for Standardization, 2010

ISO/DIS 129-1

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 ISO/DIS 129-1

Contents Page

Foreword .............................................................................................................................................................v
Introduction........................................................................................................................................................vi
1 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................1
2 Normative references............................................................................................................................1
3 Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................2
3.1 Features..................................................................................................................................................2
3.2 Elements of dimensioning....................................................................................................................2
3.3 Dimensions ............................................................................................................................................2
3.4 Arrangement of dimensions.................................................................................................................3
4 Presentation of dimensions and tolerances.......................................................................................4
4.1 Presentation rules .................................................................................................................................4
4.2 Positioning of dimensions....................................................................................................................5
4.3 Units of dimensions ..............................................................................................................................6
5 Elements of dimensioning....................................................................................................................6
5.1 General ...................................................................................................................................................6
5.2 Dimension line .......................................................................................................................................7
5.3 Terminators and origin indication .....................................................................................................11
5.4 Extension line ......................................................................................................................................12
5.5 Leader line............................................................................................................................................14
5.6 Dimensional values .............................................................................................................................15
5.7 Letters representing dimensions.......................................................................................................17
5.8 Symbols to dimensional values.........................................................................................................17
5.9 Tabular dimensioning .........................................................................................................................17
6 Indication of tolerances ......................................................................................................................18
6.1 General .................................................................................................................................................18
6.2 Limit deviations ...................................................................................................................................19
6.3 Limit dimensioning..............................................................................................................................20
7 Indications of special dimensions.....................................................................................................20
7.1 Arrangement of graphical and letter symbols with dimensional values .......................................20
7.2 Diameters .............................................................................................................................................23
7.3 Radii ......................................................................................................................................................23
7.4 Spheres ................................................................................................................................................24
7.5 Arcs, chords and angles.....................................................................................................................24
7.6 Squares ................................................................................................................................................27
7.7 Equally spaced and repeated features..............................................................................................28
7.8 Symmetrical parts ...............................................................................................................................32
7.9 Indication of levels ..............................................................................................................................35
7.10 Dimensions of out-of-scale represented features ...........................................................................35
7.11 Auxiliary dimensions ..........................................................................................................................36
7.12 Dimensioning of curved features ......................................................................................................36
8 Arrangements of dimensions.............................................................................................................38
8.1 General .................................................................................................................................................38
8.2 Chain dimensioning ............................................................................................................................38
8.3 Parallel dimensioning .........................................................................................................................39
8.4 Running dimensioning........................................................................................................................40
8.5 Coordinate dimensioning ...................................................................................................................45
8.6 Combined dimensioning.....................................................................................................................49
8.7 Arrangement of internal and external dimensions ..........................................................................50

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Annex A (normative) Relations and dimensions of graphical symbols ..................................................... 52

A.1 General requirements......................................................................................................................... 52
A.2 Proportions.......................................................................................................................................... 53
A.3 Dimensions.......................................................................................................................................... 55
Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................................... 56

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Foreword
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition, which has been technically revised.

This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition, which has been technically revised.

ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.

International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

ISO 129-1 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 10, Technical product documentation,
Subcommittee SC 1, Basic conventions.

This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 129-1:2004), which has been technically
revised.

ISO 129 consists of the following parts, under the general title Technical drawings — Indication of dimensions
and tolerances:

⎯ Part 1: General principles

⎯ Part 2: Mechanical engineering

⎯ Part 3: Shipbuilding

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Introduction
ISO 129-1 is intended for all fields of application and the following parts will give additional information for
application to documentation in specific fields.

The principles of tolerancing and the interpretation of tolerance indications are given in the ISO 14405 series.

Figures in this part of ISO 129 illustrate the rules and are not intended to show complete representations. It
should be understood that the third angle projection could equally well have been used without prejudice to
the principles established.

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DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 129-1

Technical drawings — Indication of dimensions and

tolerances —
Part 1:
General principles

1 Scope
This part of ISO 129 establishes the general principles for indication of dimensions and tolerances that applies
to technical drawings in all disciplines and trades.

NOTE 1 The principles of tolerancing and the interpretation of tolerance indications are given in the ISO 14405- series.

NOTE 2 Additional information and details for construction engineering are given in ISO 6284.

NOTE 3 Figures in this part of ISO 129 illustrate the rules and are not intended to show complete representations.

2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.

ISO 128-20:1996, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 20: Basic conventions for
lines

ISO 128-22:1999, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 22: Basic conventions and
applications for leader lines and reference lines

ISO 128-23:1999, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 23: Lines on construction
drawings

ISO 128-24:1999, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 24: Lines on mechanical
engineering drawings

ISO 128-25:1999, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 25: Lines on shipbuilding
drawings

ISO 128-30:2001, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 30: Basic conventions for
views

ISO 1101:1983, Technical drawings — Geometric tolerancing — Tolerancing of form, orientation, location and
run-out — Generalities, definitions, symbols, indications on drawings

ISO 80000-1:2009, SI units and recommendations for the use of their multiples and of certain other units

ISO 3098 (all parts), Technical product documentation — Lettering

ISO/IEC 81714-1, Design of graphical symbols for use in the technical documentation of products — Part 1:
Basic rules

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3 Terms and definitions

3.1 Features

3.1.1
feature
point, line or surface

[ISO 14660-1:1999, definition 2.1]

NOTE The word "geometrical feature" may added if risk of misunderstanding occurs.

3.1.2
feature of size
geometrical shape defined by a linear or angular dimension which is a size

[ISO 14660-1:1999, definition 2.2]

NOTE The feature of size can be a cylinder, a sphere, two parallel opposite surfaces, a cone or a wedge.

3.1.3
reference feature
feature which is used as the origin for the determination of another feature

3.1.4
repeated feature
multiple features of the same spacing or angle referred to one or more reference features

3.2 Elements of dimensioning

3.2.1
centre line
line on a drawing indicating the geometrical centre of the represented feature(s)

3.2.2
dimension line
straight or curved line on a drawing between two features, or between a feature and an extension line, or
between two extension lines indicating the dimension

3.2.3
extension line
line connecting the feature(s) to be dimensioned and the ends of the corresponding dimension line

3.2.6
origin symbol
circle indicating the start of running dimensioning or coordinate dimensioning

3.2.8
terminator
indication signifying the extremities of a dimension or leader line

3.3 Dimensions

3.3.1
dimension
distance between two features or the size of a feature of size

NOTE Linear and angular dimensions exist.

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3.3.2
angular dimension
angle between two features

NOTE In mechanical engineering drawings, angular dimensions are classified in angular size and angular distances,
see ISO/DIS 14405-2.

3.3.3
auxiliary dimension
dimensions derived from other dimensions given for information purposes only

3.3.4
dimensional value
value of a dimension expressed in a specific unit and indicated on drawings with lines and relevant symbols

NOTE 1 Unit of dimension should be linear or angular.

NOTE 2 The tolerance limits and/or permissible deviations are applied to the dimensional value.

3.3.5
linear dimension
linear distance between two features

NOTE In mechanical engineering drawings, linear dimensions are classified in size, distances and radii, see
ISO/DIS 14405-1.

3.3.6
nominal dimension
dimension giving the nominal value indicated on drawings with lines and relevant symbols

NOTE Nominal dimensions are used for general size applications i.e. pipes, sheet metal, etc.

3.3.7
tolerance
difference between the upper and lower tolerance limits

[ISO/DIS 286-1.2, 3.2.9]

NOTE 1 The tolerance is an absolute quantity without sign.

NOTE 2 The tolerance is also the difference between the upper limit deviation and the lower limit deviation.

3.4 Arrangement of dimensions

3.4.1
chain dimensioning
method of dimensioning where single dimensions are arranged in a row

3.4.2
coordinate dimensioning
method of dimensioning from a reference feature in a coordinate system

EXAMPLE Cartesian or polar coordinates, see ISO 10209.

3.4.3
parallel dimensioning
method of dimensioning from a reference feature with parallel or concentric dimension lines

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3.4.4
running dimensioning
method of dimensioning from a reference feature where each feature is dimensioned

3.4.5
tabular dimensioning
method of dimensioning where features and/or dimensions are indicated by allocated numbers or letters and
recorded in tables

4 Presentation of dimensions and tolerances

4.1 Presentation rules

A product shall be specified only by its necessary dimensions to be able to manufacture and verify
unambiguously.

- Each feature or relation between features shall be dimensioned only once.

- Unless otherwise specified, dimensions shall be indicated for the finished state of the dimensioned
feature. However it could be necessary to give additional dimensions at intermediate stages of
production if they are shown on the same drawing(e. g. the size of a feature prior to carburizing and
finishing).

- All dimensional information shall be complete and shown directly on a drawing unless this information
is specified in related associated documentation.

All dimensions, graphical symbols and annotations shall be indicated such that they can be read from the
bottom or right-hand side (main reading directions) of the drawing.

NOTE Dimensions may only partially define a geometrical requirement. Other geometrical elements are normally
needed to define a feature or component clearly and unambiguously. Other geometrical elements are e.g. geometrical
tolerances, surface texture requirements and requirements for edges.

Lettering on drawings shall be in accordance with the ISO 3098 series.

There shall be only one lettering height for dimension and tolerance indication for a specific drawing.

A space shall separate the elements of the dimension indicator (see Figure A.3 and A.4).

Dimensions shall be indicated with tolerance or limit indications, except the following cases

⎯ min, see 6.3.2

⎯ max, see 6.3.2

⎯ auxiliary dimension, see 7.11

⎯ theoretically exact dimension (TED), see ISO 1101:2004.

When tolerance limits are indicated (e.g. limit deviations, dimension limit values) the decimal marker of the
upper and lower shall be at the same vertical position (for details see Annex A), e.g.:

+0,20
2× 55 -0,15

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If two deviations relating to the same dimension have to be shown, both shall be expressed to the same
number of decimal places (see Figure 1), except if one of the deviations is zero. The same applies if the limits
of size are indicated (see Figure 2).

Figure 1 Figure 2

4.2 Positioning of dimensions

Dimensions shall be placed on that view or section which shows the relevant feature(s) most clearly (see
Figure 3).

Figure 3

Where several features or objects are depicted in close proximity, their relative dimensions shall be grouped,
together, separately, for ease of reading (see Figure 4).

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Figure 4

4.3 Units of dimensions

Dimensions shall be indicated using only one unit of dimension. Where a variety of units of dimension are
used within one document, they shall be clearly indicated.

For dimensions, SI units shall be used according to ISO 80000-1.

Limit deviations shall be expressed in the same unit as the basic dimension.

Where all linear dimensions are expressed in the same unit, the unit symbol may be omitted, provided the
drawing or associated documentation carries a statement of the unit used.

5 Elements of dimensioning

5.1 General

The elements of dimensioning are extension lines, dimension lines, leader lines, reference lines, terminators,
indication of origins and dimensional values. Various elements of dimensioning are illustrated in Figure 5.

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Key
1 dimension line
2 dimensional value
3 terminator (in this case, an arrowhead)
4 extension line
5 leader line
6 reference line
7 origin symbol

Figure 5

5.2 Dimension line

Dimension lines shall be indicated according to ISO 128-23, ISO 128-24 and ISO 128-25 by a continuous
narrow line.

Dimension lines shall be indicated in the case of

⎯ linear dimensions parallel to the length to be dimensioned (see Figure 6);

⎯ angular dimensions or dimensions of an arc as a circular arc around the vertex of the angle or the centre
of the arc (see Figures 7 and 8), and

⎯ radii dimensions generated from the geometrical centre of the circle of which the arc is part and leading to
the outline of the arc (see Figure 8).

Where space is limited, dimension lines may be indicated with extensions and reversed arrowheads (see
Figure 3).

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Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8

Where the feature is shown broken, the corresponding dimension line shall be shown unbroken (see Figure 9).

Dimension lines of holes may be indicated oblique through the centre of the hole (See Figure 6 and 10).

Figure 9

Intersection of dimension lines with any other line should be avoided, but where intersection is unavoidable
they shall be shown without a break (see Figure 10).

The centre line or outline of a feature may be used in place of an extension line (see Figure 10). However, a
centre line or the outline of a feature shall not be used as a dimension line.

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Figure 10

Dimension lines may be shown not in full, when

⎯ dimensions of diameters are indicated (see Figure 11);

⎯ only a part of a symmetrical feature is drawn in a view or section (see Figures 64 and 65);

⎯ a feature is drawn half in a view and half in a cut (see Figure 11);

⎯ the reference feature for dimensioning is not on the drawing sheet and there is no need for its indication
(see Figure 47, R78);

⎯ referring to grids, (see Figure 79);

⎯ simplified running dimensioning is used, (see Figure 79).

Figure 11

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Figure 12

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5.3 Terminators and origin indication

5.3.1 Terminators

Terminations of a dimension line shall be according to one of the following representations:

a) arrowheads;

1. closed 30°, Figure 13 a);

2. open 30°, Figure 13 b);

3. 90°, Figure 13 f)
Only one type of arrowhead shall be used on a single drawing or a set of drawings.

b) oblique stroke, Figure 13 d);

c) point, Figure 13 e).

The size ratios of the terminators illustrated in Figure 13 are given in Annex A.

If there is no space for an arrowhead between extension lines the arrowhead shall be substituted by either a
point or an oblique stroke, see Figure 13 e) and f).

a) closed 30° b) open 30°

c) 90° d) oblique stroke

e) oblique stroke between arrows f) point between arrows

Figure 13

Arrowhead terminators shall be shown within the limits of the dimension line where space is available (see
Figure 15).

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Where space is limited, the arrowhead termination may be shown outside the intended limits of the dimension
line that is extended for that purpose (see Figure 22).

5.3.2 Origin indication

The symbol origin indication can be used for e.g.

⎯ running dimensioning;

⎯ coordinate dimensioning.

The origin symbol shall be indicated on the dimension line at the location where a specific dimension starts
(see Figure 14).

The size ratios of the origin circle illustrated in Figure 14 are given in Annex A.

Figure 14

5.4 Extension line

Extension lines shall be drawn as continuous narrow lines according to ISO 128-20.

Extension lines shall not be drawn from one view to another and shall not be drawn parallel to the direction of
hatching.

Extension lines shall extend approximately 8 times the line width beyond the respective dimension line.
Extension lines should be drawn perpendicular to the corresponding physical length (see Figures 6 and 7, 11
to 13 and 16).
For circular features the extension line shall be drawn as an continuation of the feature shape (see Figure 46).
It is permissible to have a gap (approximately 8 times the line width) between the feature and the beginning of
the extension line (see Figure 16).

Figure 15 Figure 16

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The extension lines may be drawn obliquely and when shown they shall be parallel to each other (see
Figure 17).

Figure 17

Intersecting projected contours of outlines shall extend approximately 8 times the line width beyond the point
of intersection (see Figure 18).

Figure 18

In the case of projected contours of transitions and similar features, the extension lines apply at the point of
intersection of the projection lines (see Figure 19).

Figure 19

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Extension lines may be interrupted if their continuation is unambiguous (see Figures 20 and 21). In the case of
angular dimensions, the extension lines are the extensions of the angle legs (see Figure 21)

Figure 20 Figure 21

5.5 Leader line

Leader lines according to ISO 128-22 shall be drawn using a continuous narrow line according to ISO 128-20.
Leader lines should not be longer than necessary and should be drawn obliquely to the feature, but shall have
an angle distinctive from that of any existing hatching (see Figures 22 a, 27 and 29).

When leader lines are used for dimensioning of diameters, the imaginary extension of the line shall intersect
the centre of the diameter (see Figure 22 a). This indication shall be interpreted as equivalent to an indication
with dimension lines using double directed arrows (see Figure 22 b).

In this case the dimensional value shall be written on a reference line (see Figure 22a).

a) single arrow b) double arrow

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Figure 22

5.6 Dimensional values

5.6.1 Indication

Dimensional values shall be indicated on drawings in characters of sufficient size to ensure complete legibility
on the original drawing as well as on reproductions made from microfilms (see ISO 6428). Lettering B vertical
according to ISO 3098-0 is recommended.

5.6.2 Positions of dimensional values

Dimensional values shall be placed parallel to their dimension line and near the middle of and slightly above
that line (see Figures 23 and 24 and Annex A).

Dimensional values shall be placed in such a way that they are not crossed or separated by any line. For
exceptions, see 5.6.3.

Figure 23

Figure 24

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Values on oblique dimension lines shall be oriented as shown in Figure 25. As stated in 4.1, the values shall
be indicated so that they can be read correctly from the bottom or right-hand side of the drawing.

NOTE The sectors between 90° and 120°; and 270° and 300° should be avoided if possible. The dimension on
leader line could solve this problem, see Figure 27.

Values of angular dimensions shall be oriented as shown in Figure 26. Angular dimensions shall be placed on
top of the dimension line and follow the same rule as linear dimensions, see 4.1 and Figure 25. When an
angle exceeds the horizontal or vertical plane of the drawing, the location of the value is controlled by an
imaginary line between the terminations of the dimension lines.

Figure 25 Figure 26

5.6.3 Special positions of dimensional values

The position of dimensional values shall be adapted according to different situations:

a) if space is limited, dimensional values shall be placed above the extension of the dimension line beyond
one of the terminators (see Figure 27);

b) if the dimension line is too short for the dimensional value to be indicated in the usual way between the
extension lines the dimensional values, the dimensional value shall be placed on a reference line, and
attached to the dimension line by a leader line, terminating on the dimension line (see Figure 27);

c) if space does not allow placement parallel to the dimension line, the dimensional values can be placed
above a horizontal extension of a dimension line (see Figure 28);

d) in running dimensioning, the values shall be indicated near the arrowhead (see Figures 80 to 82).

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Figure 27

Figure 28

5.7 Letters representing dimensions

Letters may be used to represent dimensional values and these shall be defined on the same drawing or in
associated documentation (see Figure 29).

For dimensions, letters shall be shown either as uppercase or lowercase Latin letters according to ISO 3098-2,
except for letters I, O, Q, q, X, Z, or letters used for dimensional symbols according to clause 7.1, i.e. R, and t.

Greek letters according to ISO 3098-3 may be shown for the indication of angular dimensions.

5.8 Symbols to dimensional values

Symbols to dimensional values, e.g. Ø for diameter, ∩ for arc length, ( ) for auxiliary dimensions, M for metric
threads, are assigned to the dimensional value and not to the letter.

5.9 Tabular dimensioning

This method of dimensioning enables a series of variable common features of a feature or assembly to be
presented in tabular form (see Figure 29).

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Figure 29

6 Indication of tolerances

6.1 General

When general tolerances are controlled by another document or method, the reference shall be indicated on
the drawing.

Tolerance indications (e.g. the digits indicating the permissible deviations), shall be written in the same
lettering height as the dimensional value.

Depending on the field of application, the tolerances of dimensions may be indicated by

⎯ general tolerances,

⎯ limit deviation (see 6.2),

⎯ limits of dimension (see 6.3).

All tolerances apply to the represented state of the feature in the technical drawing.

A space shall separate the dimensional values and the tolerance indication, e.g.:

⎯ 55 ±0,2

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⎯ 30 min

⎯ ø10 h7

6.2 Limit deviations

The components of a toleranced dimension shall be indicated in the following order (see Figures 30 to 32):

a) the dimensional value;

b) the limit deviations.

Limit deviations shall be indicated either by indicating the upper deviation above the lower deviation (see
Figures 30 and 31).

If one of the two limit deviations is zero, this shall be expressed explicitly by the digit zero shown without sign
(see Figure 31).

If the tolerance is symmetrical in relation to the dimensional value, the limit deviation shall be indicated once
only, preceded by the plus-minus sign (±) (see Figure 32).

Figure 30 Figure 31 Figure 32

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6.3 Limit dimensioning

6.3.1 Upper and lower limits of dimension

The limits of dimensions shall be indicated by a maximum and a minimum (see Figure 33). The larger
dimension shall be placed above the smaller dimension.

Figure 33

6.3.2 Single limit dimensions

To limit the dimension in one direction only, shall be indicated by adding “min” or “max” to the dimensional
value (see Figure 34).

Figure 34

7 Indications of special dimensions

7.1 Arrangement of graphical and letter symbols with dimensional values

The following symbols shall be used with dimensions to identify the shape of a dimensioned feature. The
following symbols shall directly precede the dimensional value without space (see Figure 8, Figures 35 to 45
and Table A.1):

⎯ ∅ Diameter

⎯ R Radius

⎯  Square

⎯ S∅ Spherical diameter

⎯ SR Spherical radius

⎯ ⌒ Arc

⎯ t= Thickness of thin objects

⎯ Depth;

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⎯ Cylindrical counterbore;

⎯ Countersink

⎯ Spread length

⎯ C Chamfer

⎯ EQS equally spaced

Figure 35
Figure 36

Figure 37 Figure 38

Figure 39
Figure 40

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Figure 41 Figure 42

Figure 43 Figure 44

Figure 45

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7.2 Diameters

The graphical symbol ø indicates that the cross section of the object is a circle. The graphical symbol ∅ shall
precede the dimensional value (see Figures 35 and 46).

The graphical symbol ∅ shall be indicated when the circular feature is shown as a circle in the projection
plane or at right angle to the projection plane.

Diameters shall be indicated when the arc to be dimensioned is ≥ 180° (see Figure 46).

When a diameter is illustrated by one arrowhead, the dimension line shall exceed the centre (see Figure 46).

If leader lines are used for dimensioning of diameters, see 5.5.

Figure 46
7.3 Radii

The letter symbol R shall precede the dimensional value of a radius (see Figure 36).

When dimensioning radii, only one terminator shall be used. It shall be indicated at the intersection of
dimension line and arc (see Figure 41). In the case of an arrowhead as terminator and depending on the size
of the radius on the drawing, the arrowhead may be either inside or outside the outline or extension line of the
feature.

Where the centre of an arc indicated on a drawing falls outside the available space, the dimension line of the
radius shall be either broken or staggered according to whether or not it is necessary to locate the centre (see
Figure 47).

Where it is necessary to indicate the centre of a radius the centre shall then be marked by a cross.

In the case when it is clear and unambiguous a radius dimension can be applied to an edge (see Figure 47).

A radius shall be indicated when the arc to be dimensioned is < 180° (see Figure 47).

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Figure 47
7.4 Spheres

Spherical shapes shall be indicated by the symbols S∅ for diameter and SR for radius. Such symbols shall
precede the dimensional value (see Figures 38 and 39).

7.5 Arcs, chords and angles

The dimensioning of arcs, chords and angles shall be as shown in Figure 48. The graphical symbol of an arc
shall precede the dimensional value [see Figure A.1 g)].

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a) arc b) cord c) angle

Figure 48

In the case of angles less than and including 90°, the extension lines shall be drawn parallel to the bisecting
line of the angle. Each arc dimension shall be indicated with its own extension lines. Contiguous arc
dimensions as well as linear and angular dimensions contiguous to arc dimensions shall be indicated by
explicit extension lines belonging to their indication (see Figure 49).

Figure 49

If the included angle of an arc is greater than 90°, the extension lines shall point to the centre of the arc. If the
relation between the arc length and the dimensional value is ambiguous, it shall be indicated by a leader line
and a reference line, terminated by an arrowhead at the arc length to be dimensioned (see Figure 50).

Connected dimensions of arcs, as well as linear or angular dimensions connected at an arc dimension, are
indicated by an extension line (see Figure 49).

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Figure 50

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The rules given in Clause 6 are equally applicable to angular dimensions, except that the units of the angular
basic dimension as well as the limit deviations shall always be indicated (see Figures 51 to 54). If the angular
basic dimension or the angular limit deviation is expressed in either minutes of a degree or seconds of a
minute of a degree, the value of the minute or second should be preceded by 0° or 0° 0′, as applicable.

Figure 51 Figure 52 Figure 53 Figure 54

7.6 Squares

The graphical symbol shall be indicated when a square feature is shown as a s quare in the projection plane
or at right angle to the projection plane. The graphical symbol  shall precede the dimensional value. Only
one side of a square shall be dimensioned (see Figures 37, 55 and 56).

NOTE The indication of flat surfaces, Figures 4, 37 and 55, are described in ISO 128-34, clause 8.

Figure 55 Figure 56

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7.7 Equally spaced and repeated features

7.7.1 Equally spaced repeated features

Where features have the same spacing and are uniformly arranged, their dimensioning may be simplified as
follows.

Repeated linear and angular spacing may be indicated with the number of spacings and their dimensional
value or angle separated by the symbol “×”. The number of elements shall directly precede the symbol ×
without space and the dimensional value shall be preceded by a space, e.g 17× 18. If there is any risk of
confusion between the length of the space and the number of spacings, one space shall additionally be
dimensioned (see Figure 57).

The sum of the length or angle of the repeated features is an auxiliary dimension, see 7.11 and Figure 57 - 59.
The total representation is to be indicated as the number of spacings, times the dimensional value of the
spacings and the sum given in parenthesis preceded by the equal sign.

Figure 57

Angular spacings may be dimensioned as shown in Figure 58.

Figure 58

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The angles of the spacings may be omitted where angles or spacings are self-evident and the indication does
not lead to confusion (see Figure 59).

Figure 59

Circular spacings may be dimensioned by indicating the quantity of dimensions and features.(see Figure 60).

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Figure 60

7.7.2 Repeated features

If the representation is unambiguous in showing that repeated features have the same dimensions, the
dimension shall be indicated once including the number of repeated features, (see Figure 61).

Figure 61

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Features having the same dimensional value may be dimensioned by indicating the number of features and
separating their dimensional value by the sign “×” (see Figure 62).

Figure 62

7.7.3 Tabulated repeated features

In order to avoid repeating the same dimensional value or to avoid long leader lines, reference letters may be
used in connection with an explanatory table or note (see Figure 63).

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Figure 63

7.8 Symmetrical parts

The dimensions of symmetrical arranged features shall be indicated once only (see Figures 64 to 66).

Usually, the line of symmetry of features shall not be dimensioned (see Figures 64 to 66).

In the case of half or quarter representations (see Figure 64), and if also required in the case of full
representations, a symmetry symbol (see ISO 128-30) shall be indicated at both ends of the line of symmetry
(see Figures 64 to 66).

In the case of half or quarter representations, the dimension lines that need to cross the line of symmetry shall
extend past the axis of symmetry; the second termination shall then be omitted (see Figure 64 to 66).

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Figure 64

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Figure 65

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Figure 66

7.9 Indication of levels

Levels on vertical views, sections and cuts shall be indicated by an open 90° arrowhead connected with a
vertical line and horizontal line above which the numerical value of level is placed (see Figure 67).

Levels for specified points on horizontal (planes) views and sections shall be indicated by a numerical value of
the level placed above a line connected to the point indicated by “X” (see Figure 68).

Figure 67 Figure 68

7.10 Dimensions of out-of-scale represented features

In exceptional cases, such as modifications, out-of-scale features shall be marked by the means of underlining
the dimensional value (see Figure 69).

NOTE Dimensions out-of-scale are not used in 3D-CAD-systems.

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Figure 69

7.11 Auxiliary dimensions

Auxiliary dimensions in drawings are for information only and not for manufacturing and verification purposes.
They shall be indicated within parentheses and do not constitute an integral part of the specification or
requirement (see Figures 57 and 58).

NOTE Auxiliary dimensions should have limited use.

7.12 Dimensioning of curved features

7.12.1 Combined radius

Curved features indicated by centres of arcs and their respective radii values (see Figure 70 and 71).

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Figure 70

Figure 71

7.12.2 Coordinated dimension

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Dimensioning of curved features indicated by the coordinated dimension (see Figure 72 and 73).

Figure 72 Figure 73

8 Arrangements of dimensions

8.1 General

The arrangement of dimensions on a drawing shall indicate clearly the design purpose. Generally, the
arrangement of dimensions is the result of a combination of various design requirements.
Dimensional values indicated in decimal notation, a comma shall be used as the decimal marker.
Dimension lines shall be arranged as parallel, chain or running dimensioning or in combination.

8.2 Chain dimensioning

Using chain dimensioning, chains of single dimensions shall be arranged in a row (see Figure 74).

Chains of single dimensions should be used only where the possible accumulation of tolerances does not
impinge on the functional requirements of the work piece.

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Figure 74

8.3 Parallel dimensioning

The dimension lines shall be drawn parallel in one, two or three orthogonal directions or concentrically (see
Figures 75 and 76).

Figure 75

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Figure 76

8.4 Running dimensioning

8.4.1 Running dimensioning in one direction

Running dimensioning is simplified parallel dimensioning. The origin of the dimension line shall be indicated
as shown in Figures 77, 81 and 82.

Dimensional values may be placed either

⎯ near the terminator, in line with the corresponding extension line (see Figures 62 and 63), or

⎯ near the terminator, above and clear of the dimension line (see Figure 64).

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Figure 77

8.4.2 Running dimensioning in two directions

Running dimensioning in two directions that are placed on a straight line, shall be indicated by only one origin
symbol (see Figure 78).

Figure 78

In the case of two directions that are rectangular to each other the running dimension shall be indicated by two
origin symbols (see Figure 79 and 80).

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Figure 79

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Figure 80

NOTE It is permissible to indicate only one dimension in the case of running dimensions in two directions.

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8.4.3 Running dimensioning of angles

Running dimensioning of angles shall be indicated by one origin symbol and arrowheads to the extension
lines of the feature (see Figure 81).

Figure 81

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8.4.4 Running dimensioning of radii

Running dimensioning of radii shall be indicated by one origin symbol and arrowheads to the extension lines
of the feature (see Figure 82).

Figure 82

8.5 Coordinate dimensioning

8.5.1 Cartesian coordinate dimensioning

Cartesian coordinates are defined starting from the origin by linear dimensions in orthogonal directions (see
Figures 83 and 84). The values of the coordinates shall appear either adjacent to each point or in tabular form.
Neither dimension lines nor extension lines are drawn.

The positive and negative directions of the coordinate axes are shown in Figure 84. The dimensional values
indicated in the negative directions shall have negative signs (see ISO 6412-2).

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Position X Y d

1 10 10 —

2 60 20 —

3 50 40 —

4 20 30 —

5 35 25 ∅10

Figure 83

NOTE Designations for position can be numerical or alphanumerical.

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Figure 84

The origin of the coordinate system may be at the corner on a feature or outside the drawing (see Figures 83
and 85).

The coordinate values may be indicated directly near their coordinates (see Figure 85).

Figure 85

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The main coordinate system may have subsystems. If this is the case, the origin of the coordinate systems
and the specific positions within the coordinate systems shall be numbered continuously by arabic numbers. A
point shall be used as a separation symbol (see Figure 86).

Coordinate
Position X1, X2 Y1, Y2 d1 d2
origin
1 1 0 0 — —
1 1.1 10 10 — —
1 1.2 50 10 — —
1 1.3 50 20 — —
1 1.4 80 30 — —
1 1.5 80 50 — —
1 1.6 30 50 — —
1 1.7 10 40 — —
1 2 20 20 ∅10 —
2 2.1 20 10 ∅5 —
2 2.2 30 20 — ∅10
2 2.3 10 20 ∅5 —

Figure 86
8.5.2 Polar coordinate dimensioning

Polar coordinates are defined starting from the origin by a radius and an angle. They shall always be indicated
counter clockwise relative to the polar axis (see Figures 81 and 87 ).

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Figure 87

8.6 Combined dimensioning

Two or more methods of dimensioning are usually combined on a drawing.

Running dimensioning and single dimensions may be combined on a drawing (see Figure 88).

Figure 88

Chain dimensioning, parallel dimensioning and single dimensions, may be combined on a drawing, (see
Figure 89).

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Parallel dimensioning, running dimensioning and single dimensions, may be combined on a drawing, (see
Figure 90).

Figure 89

Figure 90

8.7 Arrangement of internal and external dimensions

Dimensions for internal features and dimensions for external features shall wherever possible be arranged
and indicated in separate groups of dimensions to improve readability (see Figure 91).

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Figure 91

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Annex A
(normative)

Relations and dimensions of graphical symbols

A.1 General requirements

In order to harmonize the sizes of the symbols specified in this International Standard with those of the other
inscriptions on the drawing (dimensions, letters, tolerances), the rules, which are in accordance with
ISO/IEC 81714-1, given in Figure A.1, shall be observed. The letter “a” indicates the area for lettering and the
letter h the height of lettering (represented as lettering B vertical according to ISO 3098-0). Further graphical
symbols are given in ISO 3098-5.

a) Arrowhead, closed b) Arrowhead, open

c) Arrowhead, open, included angle 90° d) Oblique stroke

e) Point f) Origin circle

Figure A.1

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g) Arc h) Thickness of thin objects

h) Depth i) Cylindrical counterbore

j) Countersink k) Spread length

l) Chamfer m) Equally spaced

Figure A.1 (continued)

A.2 Proportions
The specifications for dimensions and graphical symbols shall be drafted in accordance with Figures A.2 to
A.4.

Figure A.2

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Figure A.3

Figure A.4

Table A.1 — Examples of applications of graphical and letter symbols

Symbols and their representation Meaning

∅50 Diameter 50

50 Square 50

R50 Radius 50

S∅50 Spherical diameter 50

SR50 Spherical radius 50

Arc length 50
⌒ 50

Indication of level 12,25

50 Out-of-scale 50
(50) Auxiliary dimension 50

t =5 Thickness 5

‖ Symbol of symmetry

6×150 (=900) Auxiliary dimension of 900 for 6 equal features

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A.3 Dimensions
The dimensional requirements of the graphical symbols and the additional indications are specified in
Table A.2

NOTE These requirements are in accordance with ISO 3098-0.

Table A.2 — Dimensions

Dimensions in millimetres

Lettering height, h 2,5 3,5 5 7 10 14

Line thickness for symbols and lettering, d 0,25 0,35 0,5 0,7 1 1,4

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Bibliography

[1] ISO 128-34:2001, Technical drawings — General principles of presentation — Part 34: Views on
mechanical engineering drawings

[2] ISO 286-1:1988, ISO system of limits and fits — Part 1: Bases of tolerances, deviations and fits

[3] IISO/R 1938-1:1971, ISO system of limits and fits — Part 1: Inspection of plain workpieces

[4] ISO 2768-1:1989, General tolerances — Part 1: Tolerances for linear and angular dimensions without
individual tolerance indications

[5] ISO 2768-2:1989, General tolerances — Part 2: Geometrical tolerances for features without individual
tolerance indications

[6] ISO 3040:1990, Technical drawings — Dimensioning and tolerancing — Cones

[7] ISO 3898:1997, Bases for design of structures — Notations — General symbols

[8] ISO 5261:1995, Technical drawings — Simplified representation of bars and profile sections

[9] ISO 5457:1999, Technical product documentation — Sizes and layout of drawings sheets

[10] ISO 6284:1996, Construction drawings — Indication of limit deviations

[11] ISO 6412-2:1989, Technical drawings — Simplified representation of pipelines — Part 2: Isometric
projection

[12] ISO 6414:1982, Technical drawings for glassware

[13] ISO 6428:1982, Technical drawings — Requirements for microcopying

[14] ISO 6433:1981, Technical drawings — Item references

[15] ISO 10209, Technical product documentation — Vocabulary1)

[16] ISO 13715:2000, Technical drawings — Edges of undefined shape — Vocabulary and indications on
drawings

[17] ISO 14405-12) Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) — Geometrical tolerancing — Linear size

[18] ISO 14405-23) Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) — Geometrical tolerancing — Dimensions other
than linear sizes

[19] ISO/TR 14638:1995, Geometrical product specification (GPS) — Masterplan

[20] ISO 14660-1:1999, Geometrical product specification (GPS) — Geometrical features — Part 1: General
terms and definitions

[21] ISO 16792:2005, Technical product documentation — Digital product definition data practices

1) Under preparation
2) Under preparation
3) Under preparation

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