Pen Sizes and Line Types
The ISO defines a set of standard metric line widths for drafting.
Like the ISO A and B series sheet sizes, the pen sizes increase by a factor of 2. This allows
additions and corrections to be made on the enlargements or reductions of drawings.
Each width is assigned a color code. The color code corresponds to that for the matching
lettering stencil.
Line widths and color codes are standardized across all manufacturers.
Line Types
Letter Type of Line Line Thickness Application
(mm)
A0 A1 A2
A3
A4
A Continuous - thick 0.7 0.5 0.35 Visible outlines
B Continuous - thin 0.35 0.25 0.18 Fictitious outlines
Imaginary intersection of
surfaces
Dimension lines,
projection lines,
intersection lines and
leaders
Hatching
Outlines of revolved
sections
Adjacent parts and tooling
Fold and tangent bend
lines
Short centerlines
C Continuous - thin, freehand or 0.35 0.25 0.18 Indication of repeated
ruled with zig-zag detail
Break lines (other than on
an axis)
D Dashed - medium 0.50 0.35 0.25 Hidden outlines
E Chain - thin 0.35 0.25 0.18 Centerlines
Pitch lines
Alternative position of
moving part
Path lines for indicating
movement
Features in front of a
cutting plane
Developed views
Material to be removed
F Chain - thick at ends and at 0.7 0.5 0.35 Cutting planes
change of direction, thin 0.35 0.25 0.18
elsewhere
G Chain - thick 0.7 0.5 0.35 Indication of surfaces to
meet special requirements