Tolerance

A tolerance refers to the permissible deviation of a component’s characteristic from its nominal dimension or target value. It defines the range within which a dimension must fall, so that the required functions and assembly conditions are met.

For cold-formed parts, tolerances are an essential part of the dimensional design. Cold extrusion is a process that enables tight tolerances and high dimensional accuracy to be achieved.

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Tolerances in cold extrusion
Tolerance: Questions and answers

Tolerances in cold extrusion

Tolerances are particularly crucial when components need to function precisely in conjunction with one another or be assembled. In the case of tight tolerance chains, even minor dimensional deviations can affect the fit and, consequently, the function of an assembly.

Cold extrusion enables the production of components with high dimensional accuracy and reproducible geometries. Thanks to the precise replication of the tool contour, external and internal diameters, in particular, can be produced to tight tolerances. Depending on the material, component geometry and process design, MN Kaltformteile can achieve diameter tolerances of up to approximately ±0.05 mm

Length dimensions can also be achieved with high accuracy. With suitable component and process design, length tolerances of up to approximately ±0.05 mm are possible.

The tolerances that can actually be achieved depend, amongst other things, on the geometry, the material, the degree of forming and the tool design.

In addition to tight dimensional tolerances, cold extrusion also enables very high surface quality to be achieved. For components designed accordingly, surface roughnesses of up to Rz 2.6 µm are possible at MN Kaltformteile.

Tolerance: Questions and answers

What is a tolerance?

A tolerance refers to the permissible range within which the actual dimension of a component may deviate from the specified nominal dimension.
Why are tolerances important for components?

Tolerances ensure that, despite unavoidable dimensional variations, components can fulfil their intended function and be assembled reliably.
What tolerances are possible in cold extrusion?

Cold extrusion allows components to be manufactured with high dimensional accuracy and repeatability. At MN Kaltformteile, depending on the material, geometry and process design, diameter tolerances of up to approximately ±0.05 mm and length tolerances of up to approximately ±0.05 mm are possible, for example. The specific tolerances that can be achieved must always be assessed on a component- and application-specific basis.
How important are tight tolerances for assembly?

Tight tolerances enable a precise fit between components. This is particularly relevant for assemblies with defined tolerance chains and high requirements for functional reliability. The required tolerances must be aligned with the function and installation conditions of the respective component.
Can cold-formed parts achieve both tight tolerances and good surface finishes?

Yes. With suitable component and process design, cold extrusion enables both tight dimensional tolerances as well as very good surface finishes. At MN Kaltformteile, for example, surface roughnesses up to Rz 2.6 µm can be achieved. This means that functional surfaces can in some cases already be produced to the required quality during the forming process itself, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for additional machining steps.

Tolerance

Tolerances in cold extrusion

Tolerance: Questions and answers

What is a tolerance?

Why are tolerances important for components?

What tolerances are possible in cold extrusion?

How important are tight tolerances for assembly?

Can cold-formed parts achieve both tight tolerances and good surface finishes?