How To Fix SD_EXPRESSION018 - Maximal precision 37 exceeded in arithm. expression

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SD_EXPRESSION - Messages processing AST expressions

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Maximal precision 37 exceeded in arithm. expression

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SD_EXPRESSION018 - Maximal precision 37 exceeded in arithm. expression ?

  The SAP error message SD_EXPRESSION018: Maximal precision 37 exceeded in arithmetic expression typically occurs when a calculation in an SAP system exceeds the maximum precision allowed for numeric values. This can happen in various scenarios, particularly in the Sales and Distribution (SD) module, where calculations involving pricing, discounts, or other financial figures are performed.
  Cause:
  
  High Precision Calculations: The error is often triggered when the result of an arithmetic operation (like multiplication or division) results in a number that has more than 37 significant digits. This can happen when dealing with large quantities, high unit prices, or complex pricing conditions.
  Data Type Limitations: The underlying data types used in the calculations may have limitations on the number of digits they can handle. For example, certain fields may be defined to hold a maximum of 37 digits, and exceeding this limit will trigger the error.
  Complex Pricing Conditions: If there are multiple pricing conditions or complex calculations involved in determining the final price, the cumulative effect can lead to exceeding the precision limit.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Pricing Conditions: Check the pricing conditions and calculations involved in the transaction. Simplifying the pricing structure or reducing the number of conditions may help.
  Adjust Quantity or Price: If possible, adjust the quantities or prices involved in the calculation to ensure that the resulting value does not exceed the precision limit.
  Check Custom Code: If there is any custom code or user exits that manipulate pricing or calculations, review this code to ensure it does not lead to excessive precision.
  Use Rounding: Implement rounding logic where appropriate to reduce the number of significant digits in the calculations.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or updates that may address this issue. SAP may provide patches or recommendations for handling precision issues.
  Testing: After making adjustments, thoroughly test the changes in a development or quality assurance environment before moving to production.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Data Types: Familiarize yourself with the data types used in SAP for pricing and calculations. Understanding the limits of these data types can help prevent similar issues.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for detailed information on numeric precision and data types in the context of the SD module.
  Performance Impact: Be aware that overly complex pricing calculations can also impact system performance, so optimizing these calculations can have additional benefits beyond just resolving the error.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or a consultant who specializes in SAP SD to further diagnose and resolve the issue.