When the thread is designed, the thread flank angles, crest and root radius or other form is established, and tolerances and allowances between mating threads are determined. The pitch diameter is the point on a thread where the distance between two points on the thread flank is 1/2 the pitch. For a given external thread nominal diameter, this pitch line is established and tolerances applied. The internal thread pitch diameter is then calculated for a designed allowance (minimum clearance) and tolerances applied to it.