A standard through-hole pattern cut by conventional drilling, without CNC precision or grooving — the most economical hole-forming method, adequate for standard expanded joints in non-critical service.
| Structural Principle | Conventional drilling to standard tolerance, no grooving or CNC precision |
| Typical Positional Accuracy | Standard TEMA tolerance, wider than CNC machining |
| Applicable Patterns | Triangular and square pitch |
| Best Suited For | Expanded joints, non-critical or general industrial service |
| Governing Codes | TEMA standard tolerance tables |
Standard drilling suits general service where CNC precision isn't required by the joint design.
Standard drilling is adequate whenever the joint is expanded (not welded) and the service is general industrial rather than high-criticality — the wider tolerance band doesn't compromise an expanded joint's performance in these cases.
Yes, standard drilling can be applied to any material family, though very hard or work-hardening materials like duplex steels may still benefit from CNC precision even in expanded-joint designs.
No — the tolerance is set during the original machining pass. If tighter tolerance becomes necessary, the plate would need to be re-machined or replaced rather than upgraded in place.
Every enquiry is checked against governing code, material compatibility and manufacturing feasibility before a quote is issued. Use our product, material, grade and standards guides to freeze the RFQ — then confirm with engineering.
Send your diameter, material, pressure class and quantity — we'll confirm thickness and price.