ABSTRACT
Features that mate can often take advantage of the use of the maximum material condition (MMC) concept by using the MMC symbol in the feature control frame next to the geometric tolerance and next to any datum features of size referenced that also mate. This concept allows a growth and shift in the geometric tolerance originally assigned without adverse effect on part functionality. As in the case of threaded features modified by the MMC symbol, since the point of engagement in the mating situation is the pitch cylinder, the enlargement of a threaded hole's minor diameter would not mean an equal growth of the hole. The concept of using the MMC symbol after referenced datum features of size takes advantage of the departure of the datum features from MMC. It allows parts to be accepted based on the fact that this size departure from MMC would actually allow the parts to mate during assembly.
