An interference fit, also known as a pressed fit or friction fit, is a form of fastening between two tightfitting mating parts that produces a joint which is held together by friction after the parts are pushed together.[1]
Depending on the amount of interference, parts may be joined using a tap from a hammer or forced together using a hydraulic press. Critical components that must not sustain damage during joining may also be cooled significantly below room temperature to shrink one of the components before fitting. This method allows the components to be joined without force and produces a shrink fit interference when the component returns to normal temperature. Interference fits are commonly used with aircraft fasteners to improve the fatigue life of a joint.
These fits, though applicable to shaft and hole assembly, are more often used for bearing-housing or bearing-shaft assembly. This is referred to as a 'press-in' mounting.