In manufacturing, what is a potential drawback of implementing stringent tolerances?

Implementing stringent tolerances in manufacturing can indeed lead to higher production costs. When manufacturers set tighter tolerances, they need to ensure that every part produced meets these specifications precisely, which often requires more advanced equipment, more careful monitoring during the production process, and potentially more skilled labor. These factors can contribute to increased labor costs, machine wear, and the need for additional quality control measures, ultimately raising the overall cost of production.

Additionally, stricter tolerances may result in higher scrap rates or the need for more complex rework processes if parts do not meet the required specifications. This further contributes to escalating production costs. While improved product quality can be a beneficial outcome of tighter tolerances, it is important to recognize that the trade-off often involves an increase in expenses associated with achieving that level of quality.