What does the term 'depth' refer to in a technical drawing?

In a technical drawing, the term 'depth' specifically refers to the top-to-bottom measurement of a hole or recess. This definition is critical in understanding how depth is visualized and represented in manufacturing and engineering contexts. When creating or interpreting technical drawings, depth helps communicate how far a feature, such as a hole or a notch, extends into a part. It is essential for ensuring that components fit correctly and perform as intended.

This term distinguishes itself from other dimensions like length, which measures how long a feature is, and width, which describes the side-to-side measurement of a feature. Additionally, the overall height of a structure pertains to its vertical measurement but does not capture the specific importance of depth in relation to features that penetrate or recess into a material. Understanding the significance of depth is crucial for accurate fabrication and assembly processes in metal cutting and machining.