Tolerance Calculator
Using the tolerance stackup tool for dimensional analysis and pass/fail inspection.
Purpose
The Tolerance Calculator helps you determine minimum and maximum allowable dimensions from a nominal value and tolerance specification. It supports both bilateral (±) and unilateral tolerances, multi-feature stackup analysis, and pass/fail inspection with color-coded feedback. This is essential for first-article inspection, in-process checks, and communicating dimensional requirements.
Bilateral vs. Unilateral Mode
Toggle the switch at the top to choose between Bilateral (symmetric ± tolerance, e.g., 1.000 ± 0.005) and Unilateral mode (separate upper and lower tolerance values, e.g., 1.000 +0.005 / -0.002). In bilateral mode, entering 0.005 as the tolerance automatically applies +0.005 and -0.005. In unilateral mode, you specify each bound independently.
Adding Features for Stackup
Click 'Add Feature' to add additional dimension rows. Each row represents one feature in a tolerance stackup. The calculator sums all individual tolerance ranges to compute the Total Tolerance Stackup at the bottom — this is the worst-case accumulation across all features. Name each feature (e.g., 'Bore Diameter', 'Shoulder Length') for clarity.
Pass/Fail Inspection
Enter a measured value in the 'Measured' field for any feature. The calculator compares it against the computed min/max bounds and displays a color-coded badge: green ✓ PASS (within spec with margin), amber ⚠ NEAR LIMIT (within spec but less than 10% of the range from a limit), or red ✕ FAIL (outside spec). The measured input border also changes color to match.
Subscription Required
The Tolerance Calculator requires an active subscription (Single User, Team, or Enterprise). It is available during the 14-day free trial.