What is the purpose of limit dimensions in tolerancing?

Limit dimensions in tolerancing serve the critical purpose of providing a range of acceptable measurements for a given feature. This is essential in manufacturing because it allows for some variability in the production process while still ensuring that parts fit and function correctly within the assembly. By establishing upper and lower limits, engineers can specify the minimum and maximum allowable dimensions for a manufactured part, which helps to maintain product quality and performance.

The use of limit dimensions is particularly important in scenarios where precise measurements are challenging to achieve due to machine tolerances, material variations, or thermal effects. Allowing for a range encourages flexibility in the manufacturing process, enabling parts to be produced efficiently without sacrificing their functionality.

In context, the other answers are not relevant to the concept of limit dimensions. Target dimensions pertain to a singular ideal size but do not convey acceptable variation; color specifications and weight limits are unrelated to dimensional tolerancing and focus on different attributes of a product entirely.