The Relationship Between H-Limit and Class of Fit
H limits are used to properly size a tap for the threaded hole to be produced. They are selected based upon the tolerance required for the part. These tolerances are defined by the symbols class 1B, 2B, or 3B. Class 1B has the broadest tolerance and is generally applied to DIY (Do It Yourself) type nuts and bolts. Class 2B is the most common and is used for general fasteners and threaded parts. Class 3B is the tightest tolerance and used for close fit and high strength fastening applications, primarily in the automotive and aerospace industry.
Once the class of thread and part tolerance has been defined, an H limit is selected to produce a thread that is within the minimum and maximum limits for that class if fit. These limits are the same as the Go and Not Go thread plug gage dimensions. The goal is to select a tap with an H-limit that is near the middle of the part tolerance. For instance, if the total tolerance was .005″, the tap should be approximately .0025″ larger than the minimum limit of the part and .0025″ smaller than the maximum. However, to handle the widest variety of tapping conditions, the “40% rule” is commonly used. Using this rule, the tap is placed at 40% of the part tolerance. For example, if the part tolerance is .005″, multiplying .005″ by 0.40 equals .002″. Thus, the tap would be .002″ larger than the minimum limit of the part or Go thread gage.
With the position of the tap in relationship to the part tolerance established, the selection of an H limit number, such as H3, H4, H5, etc. is possible. H limits are a sequence of size “steps” in .0005″ increments beginning at the minimum size limit of the part, starting with H1. In other words, an H1 limit is one .0005″ increment larger than the minimum limit or Go gage, an H2 is two .0005″ increments (or .001) larger than the minimum limit, an H3 is three .0005″ increments (or .0015″) and so on. In the example above, a tap that is .002″ larger than minimum limit, is four .0005″ increments larger, or an H4. This would be the tap H limit recommendation for this tolerance.
If after selecting the proper H limit, an oversize or undersize thread exists, or if shrinkage due to heat treating or plating will occur, larger or smaller H limits may be required to adjust to the condition.