INTRODUCTION TO PRINT READINGDOE-HDBK-1016/1-93Introduction To Print ReadingDrawingScaleAll drawings can be classified as either drawings with scale or those not drawn to scale.Drawings without a scale usually are intended to present only functional information aboutthe component or system. Prints drawn to scale allow the figures to be renderedaccurately and precisely. Scale drawings also allow components and systems that are toolarge to be drawn full size to be drawn in a more convenient and easy to read size. Theopposite is also true. A very small component can be scaled up, or enlarged, so that itsdetails can be seen when drawn on paper.Scale drawings usually present the information used to fabricate or construct a componentor system. If a drawing is drawn to scale, it can be used to obtain information such asphysical dimensions, tolerances, and materials that allows the fabrication or constructionof the component or system. Every dimension of a component or system does not haveto be stated in writing on the drawing because the user can actually measure the distance(e.g., the length of a part) from the drawing and divide or multiply by the stated scale toobtain the correct measurements.The scale of a drawing is usually presented as a ratio and is read as illustrated in thefollowing examples.1" = 1"Read as 1 inch (on the drawing) equals 1 inch (on the actualcomponent or system). This can also be stated as FULL SIZE inthe scale block of the drawing. The measured distance on thedrawing is the actual distance or size of the component.3/8" = 1'Read as 3/8 inch (on the drawing) equals 1 foot (on the actualcomponent or system). This is called 3/8 scale. For example, if acomponent part measures 6/8 inch on the drawing, the actualcomponent measures 2 feet. 1/2" = 1'Read as 1/2 inch (on the drawing) equals 1 foot (on the actualcomponent or system). This is called 1/2 scale. For example, if acomponent part measures 1-1/2 inches on the drawing the actualcomponent measures 3 feet. PR-01Rev. 0Page 4
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