US Series
Arch B
Belonging to the ANSI series, Arch B is a paper size that stands out due to its unique dimensions. Measuring 12 x 18 inches, or 304.8 x 457.2 millimeters, it's part of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) series, a system widely recognized and utilized in the United States.
Arch B holds an interesting position within this series. It's larger than the standard letter size but smaller than poster-sized formats, making it versatile for various applications. From architectural drawings to graphic design projects, its dimensions offer ample space without being overly bulky or unwieldy.
Arch B paper dimensions
Specs
| Format | in | mm | cm | pt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2A0 | 46.81 x 66.22 | 1189 x 1682 | 119 x 168 | 3370 x 4768 |
| A12 | 0.51 x 0.71 | 13 x 18 | 1 x 2 | 37 x 51 |
| 4A0 | 66.22 x 93.62 | 1682 x 2378 | 168 x 238 | 4768 x 6741 |
| A11 | 0.71 x 1.02 | 18 x 26 | 2 x 3 | 51 x 74 |
| A10 | 1.02 x 1.46 | 26 x 37 | 3 x 4 | 74 x 105 |
| A3+ | 12.95 x 19.02 | 329 x 483 | 33 x 48 | 933 x 1369 |
| A1+ | 23.98 x 35.98 | 609 x 914 | 61 x 91 | 1726 x 2591 |
| A0+ | 35.98 x 50.87 | 914 x 1292 | 91 x 129 | 2591 x 3662 |
| A6 | 4.13 x 5.83 | 105 x 148 | 11 x 15 | 298 x 420 |
| A5 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 148 x 210 | 15 x 21 | 420 x 595 |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | 21 x 30 | 595 x 842 |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | 30 x 42 | 842 x 1191 |
| A9 | 1.46 x 2.05 | 37 x 52 | 4 x 5 | 105 x 147 |
| A2 | 16.54 x 23.39 | 420 x 594 | 42 x 59 | 1191 x 1684 |
| A8 | 2.05 x 2.91 | 52 x 74 | 5 x 7 | 147 x 210 |
| A1 | 23.39 x 33.11 | 594 x 841 | 59 x 84 | 1684 x 2384 |
| A7 | 2.91 x 4.13 | 74 x 105 | 7 x 11 | 210 x 298 |
| A0 | 33.11 x 46.81 | 841 x 1189 | 84 x 119 | 2384 x 3370 |
The ANSI series was developed as an alternative to the ISO paper sizes used predominantly in Europe and other parts of the world. The Arch B size is not directly compatible with any ISO sizes; however, it closely matches up with A2 from the ISO series when rounded off.
One intriguing aspect of Arch B is its aspect ratio - unlike other paper sizes that maintain a consistent ratio when scaled up or down, Arch B deviates slightly from this norm. This deviation allows for more flexibility in design and layout planning.
Arch B serves as a testament to how even seemingly mundane objects like paper can be tailored and standardized for maximum efficiency and versatility in professional settings.
Other Formats in the US Series
Interesting facts about Arch B
1: Arch B Paper Size
Arch B paper is part of the ANSI/ASME Y14.1 standard series, which is commonly used for architectural and engineering drawings in the United States. It measures 12 x 18 inches or 304.8 x 457.2 millimeters.
2: Origin of the Arch Series
The Arch series of paper sizes originated from the traditional method of folding large sheets to create smaller sizes. The largest size, Arch E, was created by folding a sheet twice, resulting in four smaller sheets known as Arch D. This process continued until reaching the smallest size, Arch A.
3: Architectural Use
Arch B paper is commonly used by architects and engineers for creating detailed plans, elevations, and sections of buildings or structures. Its larger size allows for more intricate designs and precise measurements.
4: Compatibility with Other Sizes
The aspect ratio of Arch B paper is approximately equal to √2 (1:√2), which means it can be easily scaled down to fit other standard sizes such as Arch C (half-size) or enlarged to fit Arch A (double-size).
5: Variations Across Countries
The ANSI/ASME Y14.1 standard series used in the United States differs slightly from ISO standards followed in many other countries. While both systems have similar sizes, there are slight variations in dimensions and naming conventions.
6: Historical Background
The use of standardized paper sizes dates back to ancient times when different cultures developed their own systems based on practical needs and available materials.
7: Global Paper Size Standardization
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) established the ISO 216 standard in 1975, which defines the A, B, and C series of paper sizes used worldwide. This standard aims to facilitate international communication and simplify printing processes.
8: Arch B vs. ISO B2
Arch B paper is slightly larger than its ISO counterpart, B2. While both have a similar aspect ratio, Arch B measures 12 x 18 inches (304.8 x 457.2 mm), whereas ISO B2 measures 19.7 x 27.8 inches (500 x 707 mm).
9: Common Applications
In addition to architectural drawings, Arch B paper is often used for posters, presentations, large-scale artwork, and various printing projects that require a larger canvas.
10: Availability and Alternatives
Arch B paper can be readily found in most office supply stores or specialized print shops that cater to architectural needs. However, if unavailable or not suitable for a specific project, alternatives such as scaling down from Arch E1 or using multiple sheets of smaller sizes can be considered.
