Overview - EN ISO 128-1:2020 (Technical product documentation, TPD)
EN ISO 128-1:2020 establishes the general principles for the graphical representation of products in technical product documentation (TPD). It provides introduction and fundamental requirements for executing technical drawings (2D and 3D), applies to both manual and computer-based drawings, and frames the structure of the wider ISO 128 series. The standard is applicable across mechanical engineering, construction, architecture and shipbuilding, and interprets “technical drawing” broadly to include the complete documentation package that specifies a product (workpiece, subassembly, assembly).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Fundamental requirements: Technical drawings are a form of communication and must be unambiguous, clear and consistent to facilitate international exchange of information.
- Scope and structure of the ISO 128 series: ISO 128-1 explains how the series is organized - examples include parts for line types (ISO 128-2), views/cuts/sections (ISO 128-3), shipbuilding representation (ISO 128-15), and an index (ISO 128-100).
- Applicability: Rules apply equally to traditional manual drafting and modern CAD/3D model-based drawings.
- Basic entities: The standard introduces the basic graphical entities and conventions used across industries (lines, views, sections, projections), while other parts of ISO 128 give detailed prescriptions.
- Interoperability: ISO 128-1 sits at the top of the hierarchy for graphical execution and references related standards to ensure consistent presentation (dimensions, tolerances, title blocks, lettering, surface texture, etc.).
Practical applications and users
Who uses EN ISO 128-1:2020:
- Mechanical, civil and shipbuilding engineers preparing design documentation
- CAD/BIM specialists and drafters implementing drawing standards in software
- Architects and construction document authors
- Technical authors, quality and compliance teams validating drawing conformity
Practical benefits:
- Ensures consistent, international-ready technical drawings
- Reduces misinterpretation in manufacturing, construction and assembly
- Provides a framework for integrating 2D and 3D documentation into corporate drawing practices and CAD templates
Related standards (for implementation)
Commonly referenced documents in ISO 128-1 include:
Keywords: EN ISO 128-1:2020, Technical product documentation, TPD, technical drawing standards, ISO 128 series, 2D drawing, 3D drawing, CAD drawing standards.
