Understanding Manufacturing Tolerances

Tolerances define the acceptable variation in a part's dimensions. At MetalCore, we don't just meet standards—we engineer processes to consistently exceed them. Our facility is equipped to handle tight tolerances across multiple manufacturing methods, ensuring your components fit, function, and perform exactly as designed.

Standard Tolerance Ranges by Process

Actual achievable tolerances vary based on material, geometry, and volume. Contact our engineering team for custom specifications.

Manufacturing Process Standard Tolerance (mm) Standard Tolerance (in) Typical Application
CNC Machining ±0.005 mm – ±0.025 mm ±0.0002" – ±0.001" Aerospace, Medical, Precision Gears
Sheet Metal Fabrication ±0.10 mm – ±0.25 mm ±0.004" – ±0.010" Enclosures, Brackets, Chassis
Injection Molding ±0.05 mm – ±0.10 mm ±0.002" – ±0.004" Consumer Electronics, Medical Devices
Die Casting ±0.10 mm – ±0.25 mm ±0.004" – ±0.010" Automotive, Industrial Hardware
Grinding / Honing ±0.002 mm – ±0.005 mm ±0.0001" – ±0.0002" Hydraulic Cylinders, Bearing Seats

* Tolerances tighter than ±0.005mm may require additional processing, specialized tooling, or extended cycle times. Surface finish (Ra) and material hardness also influence achievable precision.

GD&T Compliance & Control

We design and manufacture to ASME Y14.5-2018 standards, ensuring functional geometry rather than just dimensional limits.

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True Position

Controls the exact location of features like holes and slots relative to datums. Critical for assembly alignment.

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Flatness & Straightness

Ensures surfaces and axes remain within specified boundaries without reference to datums.

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Concentricity & Runout

Controls rotational accuracy and axial alignment for shafts, bearings, and spinning components.

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Parallelism & Perpendicularity

Guarantees precise angular relationships between mating surfaces and mounting planes.

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Profile of Surface

Defines the allowable variation in 3D contour shape, essential for complex organic geometries.

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Composite Tolerances

Combines multiple geometric controls to restrict pattern and feature orientation simultaneously.

Industry Standards We Adhere To

MetalCore's quality management system is built around globally recognized standards to ensure traceability, repeatability, and regulatory compliance.

GENERAL

ISO 2768-mK

General tolerances for linear and angular dimensions without individual designation.

GD&T

ASME Y14.5-2018

Dimensioning and tolerancing standard for 3D models and technical drawings.

AEROSPACE

AS9100 Rev D

Quality management for aerospace manufacturing with strict configuration control.

MEDICAL

ISO 13485

Medical device quality standards ensuring safety, sterilization, and traceability.

QUALITY

ISO 9001:2015

Foundation for process optimization, continuous improvement, and customer focus.

MATERIAL

AMS / ASTM

Aerospace material specifications and ASTM standards for metallurgical compliance.

How We Ensure Tolerance Compliance

Dimensional accuracy isn't just a target—it's a verified outcome. Our in-house metrology lab eliminates third-party delays.

01

First Article Inspection (FAI)

Complete dimensional validation of the first production piece against full GD&T callouts before batch release.

02

CMM Metrology

3-axis and 5-axis coordinate measuring machines with ±0.002mm accuracy for complex geometries.

03

Optical & Laser Scanning

Non-contact 3D scanning for freeform surfaces, thin walls, and heat-sensitive components.

04

Surface Finish Analysis

Profilometers measure Ra, Rz, and Rq values to ensure friction, sealing, and coating requirements are met.

Need Tighter Tolerances?

Our engineering team specializes in challenging specifications. Upload your drawings or CAD files for a free manufacturability review and detailed quote.

Request Precision Quote →