Engineering Series
ANSI B (Engineering)
Belonging to the ANSI series, the ANSI B (Engineering) paper size is a standard that holds significant importance in various professional fields. This paper size, measuring 11 x 17 inches or 279.4 x 431.8 millimeters, is part of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) series, a set of standards widely recognized and utilized across North America.
The ANSI B size is particularly favored in engineering, architectural designs, and technical drawings due to its ample space for detailed work. It provides an ideal canvas for professionals who require precision and clarity in their designs.
ANSI B (Engineering) 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 |
Interestingly enough, this paper size also goes by other names such as 'Tabloid' or 'Ledger', especially within the printing industry. Despite these different monikers, they all refer to the same dimensions defined by the ANSI B standard.
Furthermore, it's worth noting that while ISO A series are more prevalent globally due to their logical and systematic approach to sizing based on aspect ratios and scale factors; ANSI sizes like B have carved out their niche primarily within North America due to historical usage patterns.
Whether you're drafting intricate blueprints or creating large-scale print media campaigns - understanding and utilizing the right paper sizes like ANSI B can make a significant difference in your professional endeavors.
Other Formats in the Engineering Series
Interesting facts about ANSI B (Engineering)
1: ANSI B paper size is also known as Engineering paper
ANSI B paper size, commonly referred to as Engineering paper, is widely used in the United States and Canada for technical drawings and architectural plans. It is specifically designed to accommodate detailed engineering diagrams and blueprints.
2: ANSI B paper dimensions are standardized
The dimensions of ANSI B paper are standardized at 11 inches by 17 inches (279 mm by 432 mm). This larger size allows engineers and architects to include intricate details while maintaining a clear and readable format.
3: ANSI B follows the aspect ratio of √2
The aspect ratio of ANSI B paper is √2 (approximately 1.414), which means that when you fold the sheet in half along its longer side, you get two sheets with the same proportions. This property makes it easy to scale drawings or plans without losing their original aspect ratio.
4: ANSI B is part of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) series
The ANSI series includes various standard sizes for different types of papers. The series starts with ANSI A, which measures 8.5 inches by 11 inches (216 mm by 279 mm), commonly known as Letter size. Following this pattern, ANSI B comes next in line with its larger dimensions.
5: The history of ANSI sizes dates back to World War I
The development of standard sizes like ANSI B can be traced back to World War I when there was a need for consistent sizing in engineering drawings across different organizations involved in defense production. These standards were later adopted by other industries as well.
6: The ISO equivalent of ANSI B is ISO B2
While ANSI B is primarily used in North America, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has its own series of paper sizes. The ISO equivalent of ANSI B is ISO B2, which measures 500 mm by 707 mm.
7: ANSI B paper can be used for other purposes
Although primarily used for engineering and architectural drawings, ANSI B paper can also be utilized for various other applications such as posters, presentations, and large-scale artwork. Its larger size provides ample space for creative endeavors.
8: ANSI B paper is compatible with certain printers and plotters
To print or plot on ANSI B paper, you need a printer or plotter that supports this specific size. Not all printers are capable of handling larger formats like ANSI B, so it's important to ensure compatibility before printing.
9: The weight and thickness of ANSI B paper may vary
The weight and thickness of the paper used for ANSI B prints can vary depending on the specific requirements of the project. Engineers and architects often choose different weights to achieve desired durability or flexibility in their drawings.
10: Recycling options are available for used ANSI B paper
To promote sustainability and reduce waste, many recycling programs accept used ANSI B paper. This allows discarded engineering prints to be recycled into new products rather than ending up in landfills.
