What is the Difference Between Nominal and Actual Size?

When shopping for soft wood boards at a retail hardware store, you may come across the term “2×6”. This is the nominal thickness and width of the board, which refers to its original state before any secondary processes occurred. The nominal size is the size printed on the side of the air filter and is based on the actual size, which is rounded to the nearest whole inch. The nominal size system is used to ensure that consumers can easily find air filters that meet industry standards without having to manufacture custom air filters each time.

This size is usually printed on the cardboard edge of the filter and is all you need to know when looking for air filters. The difference between nominal and actual size lies in the fact that nominal size refers to the original state of a product before any secondary processes occurred, while actual size is rounded to the nearest whole inch. This system makes it easier for consumers to find air filters that meet their needs without having to customize them. In order to understand the difference between nominal and actual size, it's important to understand how they are used in different contexts. Nominal size is used when referring to a product's original state before any secondary processes occurred, while actual size is used when referring to a product's final state after any secondary processes have been completed. For example, a 2×6 board may have a nominal size of 2×6 but an actual size of 1.5×5.5 after being planed down. In addition, it's important to note that nominal size does not always equal actual size.

For example, a 2×6 board may have a nominal size of 2×6 but an actual size of 1.5×5.5 after being planed down. This discrepancy can be confusing for consumers who are not familiar with the difference between nominal and actual size. Overall, understanding the difference between nominal and actual size can help consumers make informed decisions when shopping for air filters or other products. Knowing how these two sizes are used in different contexts can help ensure that consumers get exactly what they need without having to customize their purchase.

Jason Voisin
Jason Voisin

Unapologetic beer advocate. Passionate tv fan. Award-winning zombie enthusiast. Incurable coffeeaholic. Typical troublemaker.