National Physical Laboratory

What is an engineering drawing?

Engineering drawing

Engineering drawings communicate geometry (shape and location), dimensions and tolerances to a degree of accuracy and precision that is required for each part.

Common features of an engineering drawing:

  • shape of an object/part - represented by multiple views and projections
  • dimensions - size of object in accepted units
  • tolerances - allowable variation for each dimension
  • material - represents what object is made of - where appropriate
  • finish - specifies surface quality - where appropriate
  • dimensions and tolerances are valid at 20 °C unless stated otherwise

Engineering drawing

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