Limits and fits define the dimensional tolerances required for two mating parts—typically a shaft and a hole—to assemble and function correctly. Limits are the maximum and minimum size constraints for a single part. The fit describes the resulting relationship (tightness or looseness) between the two parts when assembled.

ISO 286 is the international reference for linear tolerances. It uses an alphanumeric system (e.g., H7/g6) to define the fundamental deviation (the letter, indicating position relative to the nominal size) and the International Tolerance (IT) grade (the number, indicating the size of the tolerance zone).

Both systems are methods used to achieve a specific fit (Clearance, Transition, or Interference), but they differ in which part remains “fixed” as the standard reference.

• Hole Basis System: The hole’s minimum size is kept constant at the nominal dimension (denoted by an uppercase H). The size of the shaft is varied to achieve the desired fit.
• Shaft Basis System: The shaft’s maximum size is kept constant at the nominal dimension (denoted by a lowercase h). The size of the hole is varied to change the fit.

The Hole Basis system is the industry standard because it is significantly more cost-effective and easier to manufacture. Machining a hole requires fixed-size tooling like drill bits and reamers. It is much easier to buy standard-sized tooling for the hole and adjust the exterior diameter of the shaft on a CNC lathe to achieve the specific fit.

IT grades determine the precision level and manufacturing cost. Lower numbers represent tighter tolerances. Use the table below as a guide for selecting the correct grade for your application:

Clearance fits are used when parts need to move relative to one another. There is always a gap between the shaft and the hole.

• Slide Fit (H7/g6): Used for precise location and where parts must slide freely.
• Running Fit (H8/f7): Ideal for rotating shafts or bearings where lubrication is required.

An interference fit is used when two parts must be joined as a single rigid unit without fasteners. The shaft is slightly larger than the hole, requiring force, heat (expansion), or cold (contraction) for assembly. These are common for bush bearings, gears on shafts, and valve seats.

A transition fit is a “middle ground” where the result can be a slight clearance or a slight interference. These are used for high-accuracy location where parts must be assembled or disassembled easily with a rubber mallet, such as dowel pins or gear hubs that require frequent maintenance.

This callout gives a manufacturer all the information needed to produce the mating parts:

• 25: The nominal (basic) size in millimeters.
• H7: The hole tolerance (Uppercase = Hole; ‘7’ = IT grade).
• g6: The shaft tolerance (Lowercase = Shaft; ‘6’ = IT grade).

Manual calculation requires cross-referencing multiple complex ISO charts, which is time-consuming and prone to human error. A limits and fits calculator automates this by instantly providing maximum/minimum sizes and deviations for any nominal dimension, ensuring your CAD drawings and manufacturing specs are 100% accurate.