Technical drawing
What is a technical drawing?
Technical drawing and the ability to read them is an essential skill for machinists. Technical drawings specify all information needed for manufacturing a workpiece, such as shapes, dimensions, tolerances, surface finish requirements, geometric tolerances, and material specifications. In short, technical drawing is a fundamental tool that ensures plans can be executed accurately and efficiently in machine shops and manufacturing facilities.
Traditional and modern technical drawing
Historically, technical drawings were created in 2D format, so they could be easily printed and handled on paper. This was important because physical work drawings were available on site and could be easily shared or taken to individual workstations.
Today, however, more and more workshops and manufacturing facilities are using digital drawings, such as .pdf files, which make it easy to share and view drawings on different devices. Using digital drawings is also more environmentally friendly as it reduces paper consumption and simplifies version control.
Solid modeling and 3D design in technical drawing
Modern technical drawing increasingly utilizes solid modeling, enabling parts and assemblies to be designed and tested in 3D. This is crucial because 3D modeling allows you to verify the compatibility and overall functionality of components before actual production.
Design and testing: Solid modeling allows designers to digitally design and test the compatibility and functionality of parts, reducing the risk of errors and speeding up the design process.
Projections and dimensioning: The necessary number of 3D model projections are created, on which the workpiece dimensions are specified. These projections list all dimensions and tolerances required for manufacturing. This ensures that the information required in the production process is clear and unambiguous for machinists.
Data management and clarity
In technical drawing, it is especially important that all information relevant for manufacturing is clear and easy to interpret. This includes:
- Dimensions and tolerances: Every drawing must include precise, easily readable and understandable dimensions and tolerances. This reduces the possibility of errors in the manufacturing process.
- Surface finish requirements: Drawings also specify surface finish requirements, so machinists know how smooth or rough each surface should be.
- Geometric tolerances: These tolerances define the acceptable deviations in the shape, position, and orientation of parts.
- Material information: Material details ensure that the correct materials are used in manufacturing and that they meet design requirements.
Summary
Technical drawing is a key process in the work of machinists, clearly and unambiguously defining all information needed for manufacturing. Traditional 2D drawings are still important, but modern methods like 3D modeling and digital .pdf drawings are increasingly common. Solid modeling enables the design and testing of parts and assemblies, improving accuracy and efficiency throughout the design process. Clear dimensions, tolerances, surface finish requirements, geometric tolerances, and material information ensure machinists can manufacture workpieces precisely and error-free.
