Endmaß

Endmaß is a German term used in engineering and manufacturing to denote the final finished dimension of a component. It represents the intended size after processing and finishing, and serves as the reference dimension for tolerances specified on technical drawings and in part specifications. In many contexts Endmaß corresponds to the nominal or target size (Sollmaß or Nennmaß) that the production process must achieve.

The actual produced size of a part is the Istmaß, obtained by measurement. A part is considered acceptable if Istmaß lies within the tolerance zone defined around the Endmaß. Tolerances may specify symmetrical or asymmetrical limits, and they depend on the precision class, material, and manufacturing method.

Endmaß is relevant across manufacturing domains, including turning, milling, grinding, drilling, casting, forging, extrusion, injection molding, and sheet metal work. It underpins interchangeability in assemblies, quality control, and procurement.

Measurement and control are integral: precision instruments such as micrometers, calipers, or coordinate measuring machines are used to verify Endmaß and Istmaß. Temperature, instrument calibration, and measurement methods can influence results and are therefore controlled in metrology procedures.

Etymology: the term combines End (final) and Maß (dimension, size). It is predominantly used in German-language technical literature and in DIN/ISO-standardized contexts, though the concept exists globally under terms like final dimension or target size.