Short notes on Fits

(1) Clearance fit:

In clearance or running fit, the shaft is always smaller than the hole. A positive allowance exists
between the largest possible shaft and the smallest possible hole, i.e. when the shaft and hole are
at their maximum metal conditions. The tolerance zone of the hole is entirely above that of the
shaft.
Minimum clearance: It is the difference between the maximum size of the shaft and
minimum size of the hole.
Maximum clearance: It is the difference between the minimum size of shaft and
maximum size of the hole.

(2) Interference, Press of Force fit:

In this type of fit, the shaft is always larger than the hole. The tolerance zone of the shaft is
entirely above that of the hole.
Minimum tolerance: It is the difference between the maximum size of the hole and the
minimum size of shaft prior to assembly.
Maximum tolerance: It is the difference between the minimum size of hole and the
maximum size of shaft prior to assembly.

(3) Transition or Sliding fit:

It occurs when the resulting fit due to the variations in size of male and female components due
to their tolerance, varies between clearance and interference fits. The tolerance zones of shaft
and hole overlap