A complete, clarified drawing saves time, reduces cost, and gets it right the first time.

An engineering drawing is not just views and dimensions.

Ever received parts from a supplier that were rejected by Quality or didn't fit, even though your drawing had fully defined dimensions? Small details in your drawing - if overlooked - can cause serious problems for the parts you order and extra cost for your company.

Here’s how I make sure my drawings are clear before sending:

1. Clareifty Tolerance: Check all dimensions and tolerances, every dimension needs a tolerance, critical feature locations should reference datums and be defined using GD&T to avoid ambiguity

2. Clarify Material: Review material type and grade. Check surface finish and surface treatment. Verify coating type and color (use RAL or hex codes, not just descriptions).

3. Clarify Direction: Define pattern directions for wood or formica. Specify the correct orientation for one-sided coatings, like black coating on glass.

4. Clarify Special Notes: Verify any inspections or instructions the supplier must follow, like weldment notes, thread notes with specific pitch, assembly sequence, and any additional quality requirements.

If these details aren't clear, assumptions happen: colors, tolerances, orientations. Result? Rejected parts, wasted time, extra cost.

Note: The attached image is a representative example. It was to illustrate common issues with unclear drawings.