Overview
ISO 8018:2007 is an international standard that specifies dimensions and tolerances (in millimetres) for headed guide bushes and headed locating guide bushes used in moulds. Published as the second edition (2007), it provides standardized sizes, head features, surface-finish indications and a clear designation system to ensure interchangeability and correct assembly of mould components.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Applies to headed guide bushes (Type A) and headed locating guide bushes (Type B) intended for moulds.
- Dimensions and tolerances: Standard nominal diameters and corresponding head diameters, lengths and sectional sizes are given in tabulated form. Typical nominal diameters include 12, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40, 50 mm (and larger sizes), with detailed dimension sets in the standard’s tables.
- Surface finish: Surface roughness values are provided in micrometres; surface texture notation is updated in line with ISO 1302:2002.
- Geometric features: Drawings show chamfer and a cylindrical entry (approx. 3 mm) and indicate critical radii/finish notes for running fits.
- Anti-misassembly options: Additional, non-standard diameters (e.g., 11, 15, 19, 24, 30, 38, 48 mm) are recommended for exceptional cases to prevent incorrect assembly of upper and lower mould plates.
- Designation: A defined naming convention (example: Guide bush ISO 8018 – A 12 × 20) identifies the part type (A or B), internal diameter and length.
Practical applications and users
ISO 8018:2007 is a practical reference for anyone involved in mould and die tooling who needs standardized guide bushes for alignment, locating and sliding fits:
- Toolmakers and mould designers specifying guide bushes in injection-moulds, blow-moulds and press tools
- Tooling suppliers and component manufacturers producing interchangeable guide bushes and locating bushes
- Quality and inspection engineers verifying dimensional tolerances and surface finishes
- CAD libraries and procurement teams ensuring accurate part specification and consistent sourcing
Using ISO 8018 helps reduce assembly errors, simplifies parts stocking, enables cross-supplier compatibility and streamlines inspection and quality control.
Related standards
- ISO 1302:2002 - Indication of surface texture (referenced for surface finish notation)
- ISO 4957:1999 - Tool steels (material reference)
- ISO 6753-2:1998 - Machined plates for moulds
- ISO 8017 - Guide pillars and locating guide pillars (related guide-element standards)
Keywords: ISO 8018:2007, guide bushes, locating guide bushes, headed guide bushes, mould tools, moulding standards, dimensions and tolerances, tooling standard, ISO.
