If the shaft size is specified as a maximum of 2.00" and a minimum of 2.99" in diameter, what is the 0.010" defined as?

In engineering and manufacturing, "tolerance" refers specifically to the permissible limits of dimension variations in the manufacturing process. When a size is specified along with a range, such as a maximum of 2.00 inches and a minimum of 2.99 inches for the diameter of a shaft, the amount that the actual measurement can vary from a nominal (or target) size is understood as the tolerance.

In this context, the 0.010 inches mentioned refers to the allowable deviation from the nominal size, which defines how much larger or smaller the shaft's diameter can be while still being considered acceptable for use. Tolerances are crucial in ensuring proper fit, function, and interchangeability of parts in mechanical systems. They allow for the realities of manufacturing processes, which often introduce slight variations in sizes.

Understanding tolerances is essential in machine design as they dictate how precise a part needs to be produced for effective assembly and operation within a machine or system.