What is an Exploded Drawing? Definitions and Examples for Students

Many high school Design and Technology students are required to draw exploded drawings, which show components ‘pulled apart,’ so you can see how the items fit together. An exploded drawing is often isometric or orthographic (but can be other methods, such as planometric too).

Guidelines for exploded drawings:

• Items should be pulled apart in the direction they would naturally be removed
• Components should be exactly in line – projected out exactly from their original position
• IGCSE students are only required to pull parts apart in one direction (i.e. along one axis)
• Centre lines are often used to make it clear where the parts were pulled out from
• Exploded drawings are often used as assembly drawings

Note: You must be able to read an exploded drawing and then draw the item once all pieces have been assembled.

Sample examination questions (IGCSE Paper 5)