Tolerance

[billtati]

Here is the hypothetical. We must drill a hole to mount a feed-thru terminal with a body diamter of .145 +/-.010. The feed-thru must be soldered in with a gap around the body of approximately .005 to ensure good capillary action to flow the solder. Taking into account tolerances, what size hole should be called out on the housing?

 

[Tofflemire]

Hi Billtati

Does the feedthru manufacture spec the proper hole to drill. Most electrical components give you the required hole and mounting foot prints.

Having said this I would drill a 5/32" or .156. This gives you the required .005 gap nominal, and in a worst case the feedthru still fits.

Tofflemire

 

[billtati]

Unfortunately the manufacturer (Tusonix) does not give a recommended mounting hole. Your answer makes sense but I think you understand my concern. If the feed-thru comes in on the high end (.155) and the hole in the housing is 5/32 (.156) the solder MAY not flow correctly. Thanks for the second opinion. I believe it is what I will do.

 

[Tunalover]

billtati-

You know there are mfgrs who make solder preform rings. All you have to do is slide them over the solder terminal and heat them with a heat gun. I believe RAYCHEM (now part of TYCO) is one mfgr.

Tunalover

 

[billtati]

Yes. We are using preform rings. However, thanks for the heads-up!