A scalable document is drafted with strict adherence to a specific ratio, allowing machinists and fabricators to calculate missing dimensions by measuring directly on the paper or CAD file and multiplying by the scale factor. If a drawing is marked as not to scale, operators must rely strictly on written callouts to avoid cutting parts to the wrong size.
Don't use a ruler on that print, it isn't scalable and the hole spacing was updated in the notes.
Related terms
Scale
To determine the physical dimensions of a part by measuring its representation on an engineering drawing.
CAD/CAM
Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing software used to design parts and generate machining instructions.
Bill of materials
A comprehensive inventory of the raw materials, assemblies, and parts needed to manufacture a product.