How Do You Show the Diameter Symbol in SolidWorks?

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The diameter symbol is a commonly used symbol in engineering and design software like SolidWorks. It represents the diameter of a circle or cylindrical object and is denoted by the letter “D” with a horizontal line passing through it. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to show the diameter symbol in SolidWorks.

Method 1: Add Diameter Symbol Using Shortcut Key

The quickest way to insert the diameter symbol in SolidWorks is by using a shortcut key. Follow these steps:

  1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the diameter symbol.
  2. Press the Alt key on your keyboard and while holding it down, type the numbers 0216 on the numeric keypad.
  3. Release the Alt key, and you will see the diameter symbol (Ø) appear at your cursor’s position.

You can now use this method whenever you need to insert the diameter symbol quickly.

Method 2: Using SolidWorks Symbols Library

SolidWorks provides a Symbols library that contains various symbols, including the diameter symbol. Here’s how you can access it:

  1. In SolidWorks, go to Insert > Annotations > Symbols, or simply click on the “Symbols” icon from the Annotations toolbar.
  2. A dialog box will appear with a list of available symbols. Scroll down or use the search bar to find and select the diameter symbol (Ø).
  3. Click on “OK” to insert the selected symbol at your cursor’s position.

This method allows you to choose from a wide range of symbols available in SolidWorks, making it useful for adding other symbols as well.

Method 3: Creating a Custom Diameter Symbol

If you prefer creating your own custom diameter symbol, you can use the SolidWorks text editor. Here’s how:

  1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the diameter symbol.
  2. Go to Insert > Annotations > Note, or click on the “Note” icon from the Annotations toolbar.
  3. A text box will appear. Click inside it and type the letter “D”.
  4. Select the letter “D” and click on the “Bold” button from the formatting toolbar to make it bold.
  5. Click outside the text box to finish editing.

This method allows you to create a customized diameter symbol by using a bolded letter “D”. You can resize it or change its appearance using the SolidWorks text editing tools.

Now that you know different methods to show the diameter symbol in SolidWorks, you can choose whichever method suits your preference or workflow. Whether it’s using shortcut keys, accessing symbols from the library, or creating your own custom symbol, SolidWorks offers multiple options for displaying this essential engineering symbol accurately.