MACHINE DESIGN 1

BASIC
TERMINOLOGIES
Abrasion - the wearing away of material due to friction or erosion.

Absolute Accuracy - the accuracy of a measurement or design without reference to any other
standard.

Accelerated life testing - is the process of testing a product by subjecting it to conditions (stress,
strain, temperatures, voltage, vibration rate, pressure etc.).

Accelerometer - is a device that measures proper acceleration.[8] Proper acceleration, being the
acceleration (or rate of change of velocity) of a body in its own instantaneous rest frame.
Accuracy - the degree to which a design or component meets specified dimensions and
tolerances.
Active Force - the force applied to a component that causes motion or deformation.

Actual mechanical advantage - the actual mechanical advantage (AMA) is the mechanical
advantage determined by physical measurement of the input and output forces.
Actuator - a device that converts electrical or pneumatic energy into mechanical motion.
Actuator - a device that converts energy into mechanical motion.
Adapter - a component used to connect or modify the interface between two different parts or
systems.

Addendum - the distance between the pitch circle and its tooth tip circle
Adhesive - a substance used to bond materials together.
Adjustable - a feature allowing for changes in position, orientation, or other parameters.

Advance - the progress or improvement in the design or functionality of a mechanical system.

Aesthetic Design - the visual and functional aspects of a design focused on appearance and
user experience.

Age Hardening - is change in metal by which its structure recovers from an unstable or
metastable condition that has been produced by quenching or cold working.

Air Bearing - a bearing that uses a thin film of air to support and reduce friction between moving
parts.

Air Cooled - a cooling method where air is used to dissipate heat from a component or system.

Alignment - the arrangement of parts or components in a machine so that they are correctly
positioned relative to each other. Proper alignment is essential for the smooth and efficient
operation of machinery.
Alignment - the proper positioning of components relative to each other to ensure correct
operation.
Alignment Pin - a pin used to align two parts.
Allen Wrench - a hexagonal-shaped wrench used to tighten or loosen Allen screws.
Allowable Stress - the maximum stress a material can withstand without failing, often used in
design to ensure safety and reliability.
Alloying Elements - in steel are usually considered to be metallic elements added for the purpose
of modifying the properties.
Aluminum Alloy - a material made by combining aluminum with other elements to improve
strength and durability.

Aluminum - a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal commonly used in machine design for

components where weight reduction is important. Its properties include good machinability and
high strength-to-weight ratio.

Ampere - the base unit of electric current in the International System of Units (SI).
Anchor Bolt - a bolt used to secure a structure to a foundation.
Anchor Plate - a plate used to distribute the load of an anchor bolt.
Angle of Repose - the steepest angle at which a material remains stable without sliding.
Angle of Twist - the measure of rotation experienced by a shaft due to applied torque.
Angle Plate - a metal plate with a right-angle bend, used as a reference for machining or
assembly.
Angular Displacement - the measure of rotation of an object about a specific axis.

Angular Velocity - the rate at which an object rotates about an axis.

Angular Velocity - the rate at which an object rotates or revolves around an axis. Angular velocity
is a key parameter in the design of rotating machinery and gears.

Anisotropy - is the characteristic of exhibiting of different properties when tested in different

direction (as tensile strength "with the grain" or "across the grain").
Anti-friction Bearing - a bearing designed to reduce friction between moving parts, such as ball
or roller bearings.
Anti-Friction Bearing - a bearing that reduces friction between two moving parts.
Anti-Vibration Mount - a device used to isolate a machine from vibration.
Aperture - an opening or hole in a component or device, often used in optical systems
Application Factor - a multiplier used to account for specific operational conditions affecting the
design.

Archimedes' Principle - a principle used to determine buoyancy and the displacement of fluids
by submerged objects.
Assembly - the process of putting together individual parts to form a complete machine or
mechanism.

Automatic Transmission - a type of transmission that automatically changes gear ratios as the
vehicle moves.

Automobile handling - automobile handling and vehicle handling are descriptions of the way a
wheeled vehicle responds and reacts to the inputs of a driver, as well as how it moves along a
track or road.
Auxiliary Equipment - additional devices or tools used to support the main machinery or system.

Auxiliary Gear - a secondary gear that assists in transmitting motion or power within a machine.
Axial Force - a force applied along the axis of a component.

Axial Load - a force applied along the axis of a component or structure. Axial loads are critical
to consider in the design of shafts, bearings, and other components that experience linear
forces. axial movement or clearance in a bearing or other mechanical component.

Axle - a central shaft for rotating wheels or gears. Axles are fundamental components in vehicles
and machinery, providing a support structure for rotation and motion.
Axle Bearing - a bearing that supports an axle.

Backlash: The clearance or lost motion in a mechanical system, typically found in gears or screw
drives. It is the amount of movement or play between interacting components, which can affect
precision and performance.

Baffle: A device used to direct, restrict, or regulate the flow of a fluid or gas within a system, often
used in heat exchangers, silencers, or ducts.

Balancer shaft: A weighted shaft used in engines and machines to reduce vibrations and ensure
smoother operation.
Balancer: A device used to balance the rotating parts of a machine, ensuring smooth operation
and reducing wear.

Balancing: The process of adjusting the mass distribution of a rotating body to minimize vibration
and ensure smooth operation. Balancing is critical in rotating machinery like engines, turbines,
and fans.

Ball Joint: A spherical bearing that allows for multi-directional movement and rotation. Ball joints
are often used in automotive suspension systems to connect control arms to steering knuckles.

Base Plate: A flat plate used as a support or foundation for a machine, structure, or component,
providing stability and load distribution.

Bearing Capacity: The maximum load that a bearing or a structural element can support without
experiencing excessive deformation or failure. In foundation design, it refers to the capacity of soil
to support loads applied to the ground.

Bearing Life: The expected duration or number of cycles a bearing will function before it reaches
a condition where it no longer performs adequately, often expressed in terms of hours of operation
or revolutions.

Bearing: A mechanical component that supports and guides a rotating shaft or assembly.
Bearings reduce friction and wear by providing smooth movement and supporting radial and axial
loads.

Bell Crank: A pivoting double-armed lever used to change the direction of force or motion, often
found in linkages and mechanical systems.

Belt Drive: A system of pulleys and a belt used to transfer power between shafts. Belt drives are
commonly used for their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ability to absorb shock loads.

Belt: A flexible loop of material used to link two or more rotating shafts mechanically, typically
found in engines or conveyor systems.

Bend: A process or machine tool operation that shapes metal or other materials by deforming
them, commonly found in manufacturing and fabrication.

Bending Moment: The moment that causes a beam or structural element to bend. It is the result
of external forces applied at various points along the beam.

Bevel Gear: A type of gear where the axes of the two shafts intersect, and the tooth-bearing faces
of the gears themselves are conically shaped. Bevel gears are used to change the direction of a
shaft's rotation.

Blade: A flat, sharp-edged tool or part used in machines for cutting, slicing, or shearing materials.

Blower: A machine that moves air or gas by increasing its velocity, used in HVAC systems,
engines, and industrial processes

Blowtorch: A handheld tool or machine used to emit a controlled flame for tasks like welding,
cutting, or heating materials.

Boiler: A machine used to heat water or other fluids to generate steam for powering turbines,
engines, or heating systems.

Bolt Torque: The amount of rotational force applied to a bolt or nut, ensuring that the fastener is
properly tightened.

Bolt: A type of fastener with a threaded shaft, typically used with a nut to secure two or more parts
together. Bolts are essential in machine design for joining components and ensuring structural
integrity.
Bore: The internal diameter of a cylindrical component, such as a hole in a shaft or the inside
diameter of a pipe or cylinder.

Boring machine: A machine used to enlarge holes that have already been drilled or cast, often
used in metalworking and construction.

Box Section: A structural cross-section with a hollow, rectangular, or square shape, used in
beams, columns, and other structural elements to provide strength and reduce weight.

Brake Drum: A rotating drum that is part of a drum brake system, where brake shoes press
against the inner surface to slow down or stop the wheel.

Brake: A device used to slow down or stop the motion of a machine or vehicle. Brakes work by
applying friction to a rotating drum or disc.

Brinell Hardness Test: A test used to determine the hardness of a material by pressing a hard
steel or carbide ball into the material's surface and measuring the size of the indentation.

Bucket: A large scooping part attached to machines like excavators, loaders, or cranes, used for
moving materials such as dirt or gravel.

Buckling: A failure mode of structural members subjected to high compressive stress, where the
member bends or collapses. Buckling is critical in columns, beams, and other compressive
loadbearing components.

Bushing: A cylindrical lining used to reduce friction and wear in a hole, often serving as a bearing
surface. Bushings are commonly made of metal or plastic and provide support for rotating or
sliding shafts.

Cam Profile: The shape of the cam that determines the motion of the follower, critical in achieving
desired motion in cam mechanisms.

Cam: A rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage used to convert rotary motion into linear
motion or vice versa.

Camshaft: A shaft to which cams are attached, used to operate the valves in an internal
combustion engine.

Cantilever: A projecting beam or structure supported at only one end, used in building
construction, bridges, and mechanical structures.

Cast Iron: A group of iron-carbon alloys with a carbon content greater than 2%, known for its good
castability, wear resistance, and machinability.

Centrifugal Force: The apparent force that acts outward on a body moving around a center,
arising from the body's inertia.

Chain Drive: A mechanical system in which power is transmitted by a roller chain passing over a
sprocket gear.

Chamfer: A transitional edge between two faces of an object, often at a 45-degree angle, used to
remove sharp edges or for aesthetic purposes.

Clamping Force: The force applied by a clamp or fastener to hold parts together, essential in
securing components in assemblies.

Clearance Fit: A type of fit where there is a gap between the mating parts, allowing for easy
assembly and relative motion.

Clearance: The space or gap between two parts that allows for free movement, essential in
mechanical assemblies to prevent jamming and wear.

Clutch: A mechanical device that engages and disengages power transmission, especially from
a driving shaft to a driven shaft.
CNC Machine: Computer Numerical Control machine, a computer-driven machine used for
precise cutting, drilling, or milling operations.

Coefficient of Friction: A dimensionless scalar value that represents the ratio of the force of
friction between two bodies and the force pressing them together.

Coefficient of Restitution: The ratio of the final to initial relative velocity between two bodies
after they collide, a measure of elasticity.

Coefficient of Stiffness: A measure of a material's resistance to elastic deformation, important

in analyzing load-bearing structures.

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: The rate at which a material expands with a rise in
temperature, crucial in design to avoid thermal stress.

Cold Working: The process of strengthening a metal by plastic deformation at temperatures

below its recrystallization temperature.

Collar: A cylindrical component used to locate or secure a shaft or a pin in position.

Compliance: The measure of the displacement or deformation of a structure under load, inverse
of stiffness.

Compound Gear: A gear assembly where two or more gears are fixed together and rotate as a
single unit, used to achieve large speed reductions.

Compression Ratio: The ratio of the maximum to minimum volume in the cylinder of an internal
combustion engine, affecting power and efficiency.

Compressive Strength: The capacity of a material or structure to withstand loads tending to

reduce size, measured by the maximum compressive load a material can bear without failing.

Concentricity: The condition in which two or more components share a common center or axis,
important in rotating machinery to reduce vibration.

Connecting Rod: A component of an engine that connects the piston to the crankshaft,
transmitting the force from the piston to the crankshaft.

Constrained Motion: Motion that is limited or restricted by the design of the mechanism or by
external forces.

Contact Stress: The localized stress developed at the surface of contact between two bodies
under load, critical in gear and bearing design.

Continuous Casting: A process in which molten metal is solidified into a semi-finished billet,
bloom, or slab for subsequent rolling in finishing mills.

Continuum Mechanics: The study of the behavior of materials modeled as a continuous mass
rather than discrete particles.

Control System: A system designed to regulate the behavior of other devices or systems using
control loops, essential in automation.

Cooling Fin: A thin component that extends from a surface to increase the rate of heat dissipation,
commonly used in engines and electronics.

Corrosion: The gradual destruction of materials, usually metals, by chemical reactions with their
environment, a critical consideration in material selection.

Coupling: A mechanical device used to connect two shafts together at their ends to transmit
power.

Creep Strength: The stress level at which a material exhibits a specified creep rate, important in
high-temperature applications.
Creep: The slow, permanent deformation of a material under constant load over a long period,
significant in high-temperature applications.

Critical Damping: The condition in which a system returns to equilibrium as quickly as possible
without oscillating, essential in vibration control.

Critical Speed: The speed at which a rotating shaft or component experiences resonance,
leading to excessive vibration and potential failure.

Crosshead: A mechanical guide or bearing that connects the piston to the connecting rod in
reciprocating engines and pumps, preventing lateral motion.

Crown Gear*: A type of bevel gear with teeth that project at right angles to the plane of the gear,
used in differential mechanisms.

Crucible Steel: A high-quality steel made by melting iron and carbon in a crucible, known for its
high purity and strength.

Crushing Load: The maximum load a material or structure can bear before failing in compression.

Cumulative Fatigue: The progressive and localized structural damage that occurs when a
material is subjected to cyclic loading.

Curvature: The measure of the rate of change of the direction of a curve, important in designing
cams and gear teeth profiles.

Curved Beam: A structural element with a curved shape, used in various applications where
straight beams are not feasible.

Cutting Tool: A device or tool used to remove material from a workpiece during machining
operations, crucial in manufacturing.

Cycle Time: The time required to complete one cycle of an operation, important in determining
machine efficiency and production rates.

Cycloidal Drive: A type of gear mechanism used for high torque reduction, where a cycloidal disc
rotates within a casing.

Cylinder Block: The main structure of an engine that houses the cylinders, pistons, and often the
crankshaft.

Cylindrical Gear: A gear with straight teeth cut parallel to the axis, used for transmitting power
between parallel shafts.

Cylindrical Roller Bearing: A type of rolling-element bearing that uses cylinders to reduce friction
between the rotating shaft and the fixed housing.

Datum: A reference point, line, or surface on an object used as a basis for measurement or design
in engineering.

Dead Center: The position of a crank mechanism where the connecting rod and crank are aligned,
resulting in minimal torque output.

Dead Load: The static or permanent load on a structure, such as the weight of the structure itself
or immovable components.

Deadweight: The inherent weight of a component or structure that must be supported, not to be
confused with external loads.

Dedendum: The portion of a gear tooth below the pitch circle, typically involved in the clearance
between meshing gears.
Deformation: A change in shape due to the application of force is known as deformation. Even
small forces are known to cause some deformation. Objects under the actions of external forces
undergo deformation.

Density index: is the term used to express relative compactness of cohesionless soils or soils
having no fines such as sand

Density: is the relationship between the mass of the substance and how much space it takes up
(volume).

Design Life: The expected period during which a machine or structure should operate without
major failure or degradation.

Design Load: The total load that a machine or structure is designed to handle, including static,
dynamic, and environmental factors.

Design: The process of creating and planning the function and form of machine components or
systems to achieve a specific goal.

Destructive Testing: A testing method where a machine component is pushed to its limits or
destroyed to analyze its failure points and material properties.

Diameter: The length of a straight line passing through the center of a circular object, from one
side to the other.

Diamond: a mineral composed of pure carbon. It is the hardest naturally occurring substance
known; it is also the most popular gemstone.

Die Casting: A manufacturing process where molten metal is injected into a mold cavity under
high pressure to create precise parts.

Direct Drive: A drive system where the motor is directly connected to the load without intermediate
mechanisms like belts or gears.

Disk Cam: A cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into reciprocating or oscillating
motion using a follower and disk.
Displacement: The amount by which a point or component in a system moves from its initial
position.

Downtime: The period when a machine is not operational due to maintenance, failure, or other
reasons.

Drift: The gradual, unintentional movement or deviation of a machine or component from its set
or desired position.

Drive Mechanism: The system or method by which power is transmitted to a machine to enable
its operation.

Drive Shaft: A rotating shaft that transmits torque from a motor to a machine or other mechanical
component.

Drive: The mechanism or system responsible for providing motion to a machine, such as a motor
or gearbox.

Ductility: The ability of a material to deform under tensile stress, usually characterized by its
capacity to be stretched into a wire.

Durability: describes the ability of materials and components to withstand static, quasi-static and
dynamic (recurring or impact) loads without damage, within the calculated service life and under
consideration of relevant environmental conditions.

Durability: The ability of a machine or material to withstand wear, pressure, or damage over time.
Duty Cycle: The ratio of the time a machine is in operation to the total time, used to describe
machines that do not operate continuously.

Dynamic Load: A load on a structure or component that changes over time, such as moving
vehicles or varying forces.

Dynamic Range: The range of operational conditions over which a machine or system can
operate effectively, without failure or inefficiency.

Eccentric Shaft: A shaft that is offset from the center of rotation, used to create oscillating motion.

Eccentric: A mechanical device that converts rotary motion into linear motion.

Eccentricity: Measure of deviation from a perfectly concentric shape or axis in a machine part.

Eddy Current Brake: A device that uses magnetic fields to create resistance and slow down or
stop motion.

Eddy Current: Circulating currents induced within conductors by a changing magnetic field.

Efficiency: The ratio of the useful work performed by a machine to the total energy expended.

Ejector Mechanism: A mechanism used to eject parts from a machine or mold.

Ejector: A device used to remove material or objects from a mold or machine. End Play: The

Elastic Deformation: Temporary deformation of a material that is fully recovered when the load
is removed.

Elastic Hinge: A flexible hinge that allows for bending without permanent deformation.

Elastic Modulus: A measure of the stiffness of a material.

Elastic Wave: A wave that propagates through an elastic medium, such as sound waves in air.

Elasticity: The ability of a material to return to its original shape after being deformed when the
stress is removed.

Elastomer: Type of material with high elasticity and resilience, often used in sealing applications.

Electrochemical Machining (ECM): A machining process that removes material using

electrochemical reactions.

Electrohydraulic Actuator: A device that uses electrical energy to control hydraulic fluid and
create mechanical motion.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Disturbance generated by an external source that affects

an electrical circuit.

Electroplating: The process of coating a metal object with a thin layer of another metal using
electrical current.

Electrostatic Coating: A coating process that uses electrostatic charges to apply paint or powder
to a surface.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD): The sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged
objects.

Factor of Safety: The ratio of ultimate strength to working stress.

Fatigue Strength: The maximum stress a material can withstand before failing due to fatigue.
Fatigue: The weakening of a material due to repeated stress.

Ferrous Metals: Metals containing iron.

Finishing: The process of improving the surface quality of a part.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA): A numerical method for solving engineering problems.

Fit: The clearance or interference between two mating parts.

Fixture: A device used to hold a workpiece securely during manufacturing.

Flange: A projecting rim or collar on a part.

Force Analysis: The process of determining the forces acting on a body.

Force: A push or pull that changes the motion of an object.

Forging: The process of shaping metal by hammering or pressing.

Fracture Toughness: The resistance of a material to brittle fracture.

Free Body Diagram: A diagram showing a body isolated from its surroundings, along with the
forces acting on it.

Friction Coefficient: A dimensionless quantity that represents the friction between two surfaces.

Friction: The resistance to motion between two contacting surfaces.

Gage (Gauge): A tool or instrument used to measure the dimensions, tolerances, or other
properties of machine components.

Gear Cutting: The process of manufacturing gears by removing material from a blank to create
the desired tooth profile.

Gear Mesh: The interaction between the teeth of two gears when they are engaged with each
other.

Gear Ratio: The proportion between the numbers of teeth on two meshing gears, affecting the
output speed and torque of a gear system.

Gear Ratio: The ratio of the number of teeth on two meshing gears, which determines the amount
of torque and speed transmitted between them.

Gear Train: A series of gears working together to transmit motion and torque from one shaft to
another, often used to change the speed and direction of rotation.

Gear Wheel: A circular component with teeth that engages with other gears to transmit motion
and force.

Gear: A rotating machine part with cut teeth or inserted teeth (called cogs) that mesh with another
toothed part to transmit torque and motion.

Gearbox: A mechanical device used to increase or decrease the speed and torque of a motor
through a set of gears.

Geared Motor: An electric motor combined with a gearbox to provide reduced speed and
increased torque for various applications.

Gearing: The system of gears used to transmit motion and torque in machinery.

Gimbal: A support mechanism that allows an object to pivot freely in multiple directions, often
used to stabilize cameras or sensors.
Gravity Feed: A system where materials or components are moved or fed into a machine or
process by gravity, typically used in conveyors or hoppers.

Grease: A lubricant that is typically used in machinery to reduce friction and wear between moving
parts.

Gripper: A mechanical device or tool used to grasp, hold, or manipulate objects, often found in
robotic systems.

Guide Rail: A component that provides a linear path for guiding the movement of machinery parts,
such as slides or carriages.
Guided Motion: The type of motion constrained to a specific path or direction by guide
mechanisms such as rails, tracks, or bearings.

Gusset: A reinforcing plate or bracket used to strengthen joints or corners in structures and
machinery.

Hand of cutter: The direction that a milling cutter must rotate to cut; either right-hand
(counterclockwise) or left hand (clockwise).

Hand of helix: The direction of the helical flutes on the milling cutters, drills, and reamers; either
right-hand (twist to right) or left-hand (twist to left).

Hard soldering: Soldering or brazing using silver-alloy solders at temperatures above 800
Fahrenheit.

Hardenability: The measure of a metal's ability to harden uniformly and completely to its center.

Hardness: The resistance of a material to deformation, especially permanent deformation,

indentation, or scratching.

Headstock: A major lathe component housing the motor-driven spindle that holds and turns the
work piece.

Heat Treatment: A group of manufacturing and metalworking processes where the physical and
sometimes chemical structure of a material are altered, often to improve hardness or strength.

Helical Gear: A gear with teeth that are cut at an angle with respect to the axis of the gear, this
angle is called helix angle. By angle cutting, helical gears can run more smoothly and quietly
compared with spur gears.

Hertzian Stress: The localized stress taking place between two curved contacting surfaces is
commonly received in such applications as rolling element bearings and gears.

High-carbon steel: Also, carbon tool steel; steel with a carbon content of 0.60% to 1.50%.

High-speed steel (HSS): Also high-speed tool steel; a group of alloy steel used extensively for
cutting tools; carbon content of 0.70% to 1.5%.

Hob: A form of cutting tool which is mounted on a hobbling machine in cutting teeth in gears,
splines, and sprockets.

Hoist: A device is designed to lift or lower a load with a drum or lift wheel around which a rope or
chain is carried.

Hooke's Law: The Law of Spring is a law stating that for spring, the force exerted to stretch or
compress it through some distance is proportional to that distance, within the limit of
proportionality

Hub: It is the central part of a wheel, gear, or pulley which the spokes, rim or other parts rotate
from.
Hydraulic System: A system using a fluid, usually oil, to transfer power, usually from one location
to another. It is widely used in heavy machinery and equipment in order to lift, move and control
loads

Hysteresis: The lag between input and output in most systems; mostly refers to the energy loss
in materials such as rubber and magnetic materials when subjected to cyclic loading.

Ignition: The process of starting the combustion of a fuel-air mixture in an internal combustion
engine, which is essential for converting chemical energy into mechanical energy.

Impact Load: A sudden and often high force applied to a structure or machine component,
causing stress and potential deformation.

Impeller: A rotating component of a pump or turbine, designed to move fluid by converting

rotational energy into fluid flow.

Inclined Plane: A simple machine that consists of a sloping surface used to raise or lower objects
with less force than would be required by lifting directly.

Incremental Load: A load that increases gradually, typically used in fatigue testing to determine
the strength of a material or component.

Indexing: The process of aligning or positioning components or parts with precision, often in a
sequential or predetermined manner.

Induced Stress: Stress generated within a material due to external loads, temperature changes,
or internal structural changes during fabrication or use.

Induction Hardening: A heat treatment process used to harden the surface of a metal, often
used for gears and shafts in machine design.

Induction Motor: A type of electric motor that operates on the principle of electromagnetic
induction, commonly used in industrial machinery due to its simplicity and durability.

Inertia Force: The force that resists changes in the velocity or direction of motion of an object,
proportional to its mass and acceleration.

Inertia: The resistance of any physical object to any change in its velocity, including changes to
the object's speed or direction of motion.

Injection Molding: A manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting molten material into
a mold, commonly used for plastic components in machine design.

Input Shaft: A shaft that transfers the input power from a motor or another driving mechanism
into a machine or gearbox.

Input Torque: The torque applied to a machine or mechanism at the input shaft or input point,
often used to drive the system.

Instantaneous Center of Rotation: The point around which a body or linkage system appears
to rotate at a specific instant in time during motion.

Interchangeability: The ability of components or parts to be replaced or exchanged without the

need for modification, important in mass production and machine assembly.

Interference: A condition in which two mating parts do not fit together without force due to
overlapping material dimensions, often managed in gear design.

Interlocking Gears: Gears designed to mesh with each other in such a way that they prevent
slippage or disengagement during operation.
Interlocking Mechanism: A safety or control feature in machines that prevents certain actions
unless a predetermined set of conditions is met, often used to prevent accidents.

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): An engine in which combustion of a fuel occurs with an
oxidizer (usually air) inside a combustion chamber.

Internal Energy: The total energy contained within a system, comprising kinetic and potential
energy at the microscopic level.

International Organization for Standardization (ISO): A global organization that develops and
publishes international standards, which are crucial in machine design for ensuring quality, safety,
and efficiency.

Inverse Kinematics: The process of determining the joint parameters of a mechanism or robot
required to achieve a desired end-effector position.

Isothermal Expansion: The expansion of gas at a constant temperature, which is often studied
in thermodynamic cycles like the Carnot cycle for heat engines.

Jack Bolt: A threaded fastener used to apply pressure or adjust alignment in mechanical
assemblies.

Jack Screw: A type of screw jack used to lift or adjust heavy objects by converting rotational
motion into linear motion.
Jack: A mechanical device used to lift or apply force by mechanical means, commonly used for
raising vehicle.

Jaw Alignment: The proper alignment of jaws in a jaw coupling or clutch to ensure smooth
operation.

Jaw Clutch: A mechanical device that transmits torque between two shafts by engaging jaws.

Jaw Coupling: A type of flexible coupling used to connect two shafts for power transmission,
allowing for slight misalignments.

Jaw Disengagement: The separation of jaws to stop torque transmission in a clutch or coupling.

Jaw Engagement: The action of jaws coming into contact to transmit torque in a coupling or
clutch.

Jaw Insert: A replaceable component in a jaw coupling that enhances grip and reduces wear.
Jaw Profile: The shape and design of the jaws in a coupling or clutch, affecting torque
transmission.

Jaw Retraction: The movement of jaws away from each other to disengage a coupling or clutch.

Jaw Set: A set of jaws used in clutches or couplings to engage and transmit power.

Jaw Spacer: A component used to maintain a specific gap between jaws in a coupling or clutch.

Jaw Synchronization: The coordination of jaw engagement to ensure smooth power

transmission.

Jig Boring: A precision machining process used to accurately bore holes or create specific
shapes.

Jig Fixture: A tool used to securely hold a workpiece in place during machining.

Jig Grinding: A grinding process used to finish holes or surfaces to tight tolerances.

Jig Plate: A flat plate used as a base or reference for machining setups.
Jig Saw: A power tool with a reciprocating blade used for cutting various materials.

Jig: A custom-made tool used to guide and hold workpieces during machining operations.

Jogging Control: A control mechanism used to manually adjust a machine’s position

incrementally.

Jogging Mode: A control mode in which a machine operates at low speed for fine adjustments.

Jogging Speed: The speed at which a machine operates during jogging mode.

Joggle Joint: A joint with a step or offset to accommodate overlapping components.

Joggle Plate: A plate with an offset used in assemblies to align or secure components.

Joggle Strip: A strip of material with a jog or offset, used in assembly processes.

Joint Alignment: The proper positioning of components at a joint to ensure optimal function and
load distribution.

Joint Analysis: The process of evaluating a joint’s performance, including its strength, stability,
and durability.

Joint Bearings: Bearings used to support and allow movement in mechanical joints.

Joint Calibration: The process of adjusting a joint to achieve precise alignment and fit.

Joint Calibration: The process of adjusting a joint to meet specified tolerance and alignment
requirements.

Joint Clearance: The gap or space between mating components in a joint, which affects
movement and alignment.

Joint Efficiency: A measure of the effectiveness of a joint in withstanding applied loads relative
to the strength of the joined materials.

Joint Fasteners: Components like bolts, screws, or rivets used to secure joints in machine
design.

Joint Friction: The resistance to motion experienced at the interface of a joint.

Joint Inspection: The process of examining a joint for defects, wear, or misalignment.

Joint Interface: The surface where two components meet and interact in a joint.

Joint Load: The load or force applied at the connection of two or more members in an assembly.

Joint Maintenance: Regular upkeep to ensure the proper function and longevity of a joint.

Joint Material: The type of material used in constructing a joint, influencing its strength and
durability.

Joint Repair: The process of fixing or restoring a damaged or worn joint.

Joint Replacement: The process of replacing a defective or worn-out joint with a new one.

Joint Rigidity: The ability of a joint to resist bending or deformation.

Joint Sealant: A material used to seal joints to prevent leakage or contamination.

Joint Sealing: The process of applying sealants to joints to ensure airtight or watertight seals.

Joint Simulation: The use of computer models to analyze the behavior and performance of a
joint under different conditions.

Joint Stability: The ability of a joint to maintain its integrity under various loads and conditions.
Joint Stiffness: The resistance of a joint to deformation under load.

Joint Surface Preparation: The process of cleaning and preparing the surfaces to be joined.

Joint Surface: The contacting surfaces of two or more components forming a joint.

Joint Temperature: The temperature at which a joint operates, affecting its performance and
longevity.

Joint Testing: The evaluation of a joint’s strength, durability, and performance under various
conditions.

Joint Tightening: The process of securing a joint by applying torque to fasteners.

Joint Tightness: The degree of firmness with which a joint is assembled or secured.

Joint Tolerance: The allowable variation in dimensions and alignment for a joint to function
properly.

Joint Torque: The twisting force applied to a joint, often used in the context of bolted connections.

Joint Treatment: Methods used to enhance or modify a joint’s properties, such as heat treatment.

Joint Type: The specific design or configuration of a joint, such as butt, lap, or dovetail.

Joint Variation: Differences in the dimensions or alignment of a joint due to manufacturing

tolerances.
Joint Wear: The degradation of a joint’s surfaces due to friction, stress, or environmental factors.

Joint Weld: A type of joint created by welding two or more components together.

Joint Welding: The process of joining components by fusing them together using heat.

Joint Workability: The ease with which a joint can be assembled, adjusted, or maintained.

Joint Yield Strength: The maximum stress a joint can withstand before permanent deformation
occurs.

Joint Yield: The point at which a joint starts to deform permanently under stress.

Joint: A connection between two or more components, allowing for movement or providing a fixed
connection.

Jounce Bumper: A component that prevents excessive suspension travel by absorbing impact.

Jounce Load: The load or force experienced by a suspension system during jounce.

Jounce Rebound: The return of a suspension system to its normal position after compression.

Jounce Spring: A spring designed to absorb energy and provide cushioning during jounce.

Jounce Stop: A feature designed to limit the upward movement of a suspension system.

Jounce: The upward movement of a vehicle suspension as it compresses under load.

Journal Bearing: A type of bearing that supports a rotating shaft and reduces friction by providing
a sliding contact.

Journal Block: A block or piece that houses or supports a journal bearing.

Journal Box: A housing for a journal bearing, typically used in railroad axle assemblies.

Journal Deflection: The bending or displacement of a journal under load.

Journal Dynamics: The study of the motion and behavior of journals under dynamic conditions.
Journal Friction: The frictional resistance experienced by a journal bearing.

Journal Loading: The load or force applied to a journal bearing.

Journal Lubrication: The use of lubricants to reduce friction and wear in a journal bearing.

Journal Misalignment: The condition where a journal is not properly aligned with its bearing.

Journal Repair: The process of repairing or refurbishing a worn or damaged journal bearing.

Journal Seal: A sealing component used to prevent contamination or leakage in a journal bearing.

Journal Shaft: A rotating shaft that is supported by a journal bearing.

Journal Stress: The stress experienced by a journal bearing under load.

Journal Surface: The surface of a journal that contacts the bearing.

Journal Testing: The process of evaluating the performance and condition of a journal bearing.

Journal Wear: The wear and tear experienced by a journal bearing over time.

Journal: The part of a shaft that rotates within a bearing. It is a critical component in rotating
machinery.

Joystick Control: A mechanism for controlling movement in multiple directions using a joystick.

Joystick Mechanism: The internal components and design that allow a joystick to function.

Joystick Operation- The use of a joystick to control machinery or equipment.

Joystick: A control device that allows an operator to manually control machinery or robots.

Jump Ramp: A sloped surface used to provide a lifting force or trajectory in mechanical setups.

Jump Start: An initial force or push applied to start a mechanism or system.

Jump Test: A test to assess the dynamic response or behavior of a component or system under
sudden loads.

Jumper Bar: A bar or rod used to connect or bridge components in a mechanical system.

Jumper Bolt: A type of bolt used to provide flexibility or accommodate movement in mechanical
assemblies.

Jumper Joint: A joint designed to allow for some flexibility or movement.

Jumping Clearance: The space or gap provided to prevent contact between components during
motion.

Kanthal: it is an electrical resistance alloy of iron-chromium-aluminium with small additions of

cobalt. About 25 per cent cr, 5 per cent al, 3 per cent co, and balance almost pure iron.

Kaolin: a fine white clay that is used in ceramics and refractories composed mostly of kaolinite,
a hydrous silicate of aluminium. Impurities may cause various colors and tints.

Keel condenser: a type of marine outboard single pass surface condenser attached to the side
of a hull below the water line. It requires no circulating water pump.

Kelvin plank statement: it is impossible to construct an engine undergoing a cyclic process,

which will convert all the heat supplied to it into an equivalent amount of work.

Kennedy’s theorem: any three bodies having plane motion relative to one another have three
instant centers, and they lie in a straight line.
Kerf: width of the cut produced during a cutting process.

Key fit: the precise fit between a key and its keyway in a shaft or hub. A proper key fit ensures
effective torque transmission and prevents slippage between connected components.

Keyed joint: a type of mechanical connection where a key is inserted into a slot (keyway) in the
shaft and hub to prevent relative rotation. This ensures that the torque is transmitted effectively
between the components.

Keys: metal pieces of various designs which fit into a slot in a shaft and project above the shaft
to fit into a mating slot in the center hole of a gear or pulley to provide a positive drive between
the shaft and the gear or pulley.

Keyseat: a groove or recess cut into a shaft or a hub to accommodate a key. This allows for a
secure and precise fit between the shaft and the component it drives.

Keyway mill: cutter for milling of keyways in shafts, made in standard widths from 1/6 to 3/8 inch
and diameters from 1/2 to 1 inch.

Keyway: a slot cut into a shaft to receive a key, which is used to prevent the shaft from rotating
relative to a connected part.

Kicker: a mechanism used to impart a sudden force to an object.

Killed steel: steel that has been deoxidized with agents such as silicon or aluminium to reduce
the oxygen content to such a level that no reaction occurs between carbon and oxygen during
solidification. This prevents gases from evolving during solidification

Kilo pascals (kPa): measurement of pressure in the metric system 1 kilo pascal is approximately
equal to 6.895 pounds per square inch.

Kinematic analysis: the study of the motion of a mechanism without considering the forces
involved.

Kinematic chain: a group of links either joined together or arranged in a manner that permits
them to move relative to one another.

Kinematic diagram: a scale drawing representing the machine so that only the dimensions which
affect its motions are recorded.

Kinematic inversion: a change in the fixed link of a mechanism, resulting in a different motion
output.

Kinematic pair: two bodies in contact, between which there is relative motion, and this motion is
completely constrained e.g., turning pair, sliding pair, screw pair.

Kinematics of machines: a study of the relative motion of machine parts e.g., displacement,
velocity and acceleration.

Kinetic energy: energy associated with motion. An internal combustion engine produces kinetic
energy (crankshaft rotation).

Kinetic energy: energy due to momentum, that is the energy of a moving body, which is
equivalent to saying, dynamic inertia. The kinetic energy of a moving body is the work which the
body can perform against a resistance before it is brought to rest, that is, it equals the work which
has brought it from its state of rest to its actual velocity.

Kinetics: study which deals with the inertia force arising from the combined effect of the mass
and the motion of the parts.

King pin inclination: inward tilt of the king pin from the vertical.

King pin: the steel pin on which the steering knuckle pivots, it attaches the steering knuckle to
the knuckle support or axle.
Kingpin offset: The distance between the center of the tire contact patch and intersection of the
kingpin or steering axis with the ground. Kingpin offset is also called scrub radius.

Kish: graphite thrown out by liquid cast iron in cooling.

Knee joint: a type of joint that allows for both rotation and bending.

Knee: a principal part of a column and knee type milling machine which slides vertically on the
column and carries the saddle and table.

Knife edge vernier caliper: has jaws which are reduced to a very narrow edge. These are useful
for measuring in restricted places or on curved surfaces.

Knife file: file in transverse section tapers symmetrically from one edge to the other, like a wedge
or a knife, used for filing in narrow spaces and cleaning sharp corners.

Knob: a rounded projection on a machine part that is used for turning or adjusting it.

Knock (engine): in an engine, a rapping or hammering noise resulting from excessively rapid
burning of the compressed air fuel charge.

Knock back: slight axial movement that pushes the caliper pistons into their bore. This causes
clearance between the brake lining and the rotor.

Knocking combustion: The autoignition or instantaneous ignition of the end charge due to the
compression of the same by the expansion and radiation heat of the burning charge.

Knoop hardness: microhardness determined from the resistance of metal to indentation by a

pyramidal diamond indenter, having edge angles of 172° and 32 minutes and 130°, making a
rhombohedral impression with one long and one short diagonal.

Knuckle joint: a type of universal joint used to connect two shafts at an angle.

Knuckle press: press designed to exert a great pressure. It is a strong, heavily built and a rather
slow-moving machine, and the standard range varies from 60-100 tons per sq.inch.

Knuckle: the part of the suspension that connects the control arms and supports the wheel
spindle.

Knurl: a pattern of ridges cut into a surface to provide a better grip.

Knurling tool: tool to cut a knurl or diamond shaped impression on the surface of a component.

Knurling: a cold working process in which a series of sharp serrations on a hardened steel roller
are pressed into the material being knurled.

Lacing: A method of reinforcing a structure by using crossed wires or rods to improve its strength
and stability.

Lamination: A process of bonding layers of material to improve strength or performance.

Lap Joint: A type of joint in which two overlapping parts are fastened together.

Lapping: A precision machining process that uses a bonded abrasive to improve the surface
finish of components, often used for flat surfaces and holes.

Latch: A mechanical device that secures two objects together, allowing for easy release.

Lateral Load: A horizontal force acting on a structure or component, which can significantly
impact its stability and design.

Lateral Stability: The ability of a structure or vehicle to resist tipping or rolling over when
subjected to lateral forces.
Lateral: Pertaining to the side; in mechanical contexts, it often refers to forces or movements that
occur sideways.

Lathe: A machine tool used to shape materials by rotating them against a cutting tool.

Lattice Structure: A framework made of crisscrossed elements, often used to create lightweight
yet strong components in engineering designs.

Lead Angle: The angle between the lead of a screw thread and a plane perpendicular to the axis.

Leakage: The unintended escape of fluid or gas from a system, which can affect performance
and safety.

Lever Arm: The distance from the fulcrum to the point of applied force on a lever, critical for
calculating mechanical advantage.

Lever: A simple machine consisting of a rigid beam that pivots at a fulcrum, used to amplify force
to lift or move loads.

Lifting Capacity: The maximum weight that a lifting device, such as a crane, can safely lift.

Lifting Eye: A loop or ring attached to a component to facilitate lifting with a hook or similar device.

Lifting Mechanism: A device or system that enables the vertical movement of loads, often used
in cranes and elevators.

Limit Switch: A device that detects the presence or absence of an object, commonly used to
control machinery and automate processes.

Linear Actuator: A device that creates motion in a straight line, often used to control machinery
and position components accurately.

Linear Bearing: A bearing designed to allow smooth motion in one direction, essential for guiding
moving parts with minimal friction.

Linear Gear: A gear mechanism designed to provide linear motion.

Linkage: A mechanical system of interconnected links that transmits motion and forces,
commonly used in various machines.

Load Deformation: The change in shape or dimensions of a component under the influence of a
load.

Load Distribution: The way in which loads are spread out over a structure or component,
important for ensuring safety and reliability.

Load Factor: A measure of system efficiency, calculated as the ratio of the actual load to the
maximum load capacity.

Load Limit: The maximum amount of load a component or structure can handle before failure.

Load Path: The route through which loads are transferred in a structure or component, critical for
structural integrity analysis.

Load: The external force or weight that a component or structure must support or resist during
operations.

Loading Capacity: The maximum load a component or structure can handle safely.

Lock Nut: A type of nut designed to prevent loosening under vibration or load.

Longitudinal Stress: Stress that occurs along the length of a material or component, often
resulting from axial loads.
Lubricant: A substance used to reduce friction between moving surfaces, enhancing the
performance and longevity of mechanical components.

Lubrication: The process of applying a lubricant to minimize friction and wear between moving
parts.

Lug: A projecting part used for attachment or connection of components, often found in machinery
for mounting purposes

Machinability: The ease with which a material can be machined.

Machine Design Specification: The detailed description of the requirements and constraints for
designing a machine.

Machine Tool: A device used for shaping or machining metal or other materials.

Machining: The process of cutting, shaping, or finishing metal or other materials using tools.

Macro-hardness: A measure of hardness taken over a large area of the material surface.

Magnetic Flux: The measure of the quantity of magnetism, considering the strength and extent
of a magnetic field.

Magnetism: The force exerted by magnets when they attract or repel each other.

Magnetoelasticity: The study of elastic materials with magnetic properties.

Magnetoresistance: Change in electrical resistance of a material in the presence of a magnetic

field.

Magnetorheological Fluid: A fluid that changes its viscosity in response to a magnetic field.

Main shaft: The primary rotating shaft in a machine or mechanism.

Maintenance: The activities required to keep machinery in good working condition.

Maintenance-Free: Components or systems designed to operate reliably without regular

maintenance.

Malleability: The ability of a material to be deformed under compressive stress.

Mandrel: A tool or device used to support a work piece during machining.

Manifold: A component that distributes fluids or gases to various parts of a system.

Manpower: The human resources required for machine operation and maintenance.
Malleability: The ability of a material to deform under compressive stress.

Margin: The difference in the diameter between the cutting edge and the body of a tool.

Martensite: A hard and brittle microstructure formed in steel by rapid cooling.

Mass Center: The point at which the mass of an object is considered to be concentrated.

Mass Flow Rate: The mass of a substance which passes per unit of time.

Material Fatigue: Weakening of a material caused by repeated loading cycles.

Material Properties: Characteristics of materials, such as strength, hardness, and ductility,

important for design.
Material Stress: The internal force per unit area within materials.

Mating Surfaces: The surfaces that are in contact in an assembled machine component.

Mating: The process of aligning and fitting two components together in a mechanism.

Maximum Load: The highest load that a machine or component is designed to handle safely.

Mean Stress: The average stress in a material subjected to cyclic loading.

Mechanical Design: The process of designing machinery and mechanical systems.

Mechanical Efficiency: The ratio of the useful work output to the total energy input.

Mechanical Properties: The physical properties of a material that define its behavior under
mechanical stresses.

Mechanical Stress: The internal forces within a material in response to external loads.

Mechanically Actuated: Components or systems that operate through mechanical means, rather
than electrical or hydraulic.

Mechanism Analysis: The study of how mechanisms perform, and the forces involved.

Meshing: The engagement of gear teeth during transmission of motion.

Meshing: The engagement of gear teeth to transmit motion and force between gears.

Metal Fatigue: A form of material fatigue specific to metals.

Metallurgy: The science and technology of metals.

Metastable: A state of a material that is stable only under certain conditions.

Metric Thread: A thread form standardized to the International System of Units.

Micro-hardness: Hardness measurement on a microscopic scale.

Micromechanics: The study of mechanical behavior on a microscopic scale.

Micrometer: A precision measuring instrument used to measure small dimensions.

Micro-structure: The small-scale structure of a material, visible under a microscope, influencing

its properties.

Micro-structure: The structure of a prepared surface of a material as revealed by a microscope.

Mild Steel: A type of carbon steel with a low amount of carbon.

Milling Cutter: A rotary cutting tool used in milling machines.

Milling: A machining process of removing material from a work piece using rotary cutters.

Misalignment: A condition where machine parts are not aligned correctly.

Mitigation: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or harmfulness of machine failure.

Mitre Gear: A type of bevel gear with a 1:1 ratio, used to change the direction of shaft rotation.

Mixing: The process of combining different materials to achieve uniform composition.

Modular Design: A design approach that uses interchangeable modules to simplify

manufacturing and assembly.
Modulation: Adjusting the properties of a material or process in a controlled manner.

Module: A unit of measurement used in gear design, representing the size of the teeth.
Mechanical Advantage: The factor by which a mechanism multiplies the force applied to it.

Modulus of Elasticity: A measure of a material's ability to deform under stress.

Modulus of Resilience: The amount of strain energy per unit volume that a material can absorb
without permanent deformation.

Modulus of Rigidity: A measure of a material's rigidity or stiffness.

Modulus of Toughness: The total energy per unit volume that a material can absorb up to
fracture.

Mohr's Circle: A graphical method to determine the state of stress at a point.

Moisture Absorption: The ability of a material to absorb moisture from its surroundings.

Mold: A hollow form used to shape material, often in casting or injection molding processes.

Moment Arm: The perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line of action of the
force.

Moment Load: The load that causes an object to rotate around a pivot.

Moment of Inertia: A measure of an object's resistance to angular acceleration.

Moment of Inertia: A measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotational motion.

Momentary Contact: A switch or button that is only active while being pressed.

Monoblock: A single, solid block used in the construction of machine parts.

Monocoque: A structural approach where the outer skin supports most of the load.

Morse Taper: A type of taper commonly used for machine tool spindles.

Motion Analysis: Studying the movement of machine components to improve performance.

Motion Control: The methods and technologies used to control the movement of machinery.

Motion: The change in position of an object over time, fundamental to machine design.
Mechanism: A combination of parts arranged to transmit motion or force.

Motor: A device that converts electrical or other forms of energy into mechanical motion.

Moulding: The process of shaping material in a mold.

Mounting: The method of securing a component or system to a support structure.

Muffle Furnace: A furnace in which the material is heated indirectly.

Multiaxial Stress: Stress applied in multiple directions or axes.

Multi-body Dynamics: The study of the motion and interaction of multiple interconnected rigid or
flexible bodies.

Multi-plate Clutch: A type of clutch with multiple friction plates for increased torque transmission.

Multiport Valve: A valve with multiple ports for directing the flow of fluids.

Multistage Gearbox: A gearbox with multiple sets of gears to provide different output speeds.
Muzzle Velocity: The speed of a projectile at the moment it leaves the muzzle of a firearm.

Narrowband - A frequency band in which the difference between upper and lower limits is small
compared with bandwidths typical of the service specified.

Natural Frequency - The frequency of free vibration of a system. The frequency at which a non-
damped system with a single degree of freedom will oscillate upon momentary displacement from
its rest position.

Natural Strain - Natural strain is a measure of deformation representing the relative change in
length of a material. It is defined as the change in length divided by the original length, often
expressed as a dimensionless ratio.

Nature of the Welding Arc - The welding arc is a discharge of electricity that creates a high-
temperature plasma between the electrode and the workpiece. This arc melts the base material
and filler material (if used), allowing them to fuse together.

Navier-Stokes Equation - The Navier-Stokes equations are a set of partial differential equations
that describe the motion of viscous fluid substances. They relate the velocity, pressure,
temperature, and density of a moving fluid and are fundamental in fluid dynamics.

NCR (National Cash Register Company) Paper Test - The NCR paper test is a method used to
evaluate the performance and reliability of cash register systems and their components, ensuring
they meet specific operational standards.

Negligence - Negligence is a legal concept referring to the failure to exercise the care that a
reasonably prudent person would exercise in similar circumstances, leading to harm or damage
to another party.

NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) Color Identification - The NEMA color
identification system provides standardized color codes for electrical equipment and wiring,
helping to ensure safety and consistency in electrical installations.

Neutral Axis (Surface) - The neutral axis is a line in a beam or structural element where the
material experiences no tension or compression during bending. It is crucial for understanding
stress distribution in structural analysis.

Neutral State of a Flexible Element Coupling - The state in which there is no net axial force
imposed on the coupling.

Neutral State of a Gear Coupling - The state when the meshing pairs of gear teeth are axially
centrally located with respect to each other, that is, with equal axial clearance in each direction.

Neutrons - Neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom, with no electric
charge. They play a key role in the stability of atomic nuclei and are involved in nuclear reactions.

Newton - Newton is a unit of force in the International System of Units (SI), defined as the force
required to accelerate a one-kilogram mass by one meter per second squared. It is also the name
of Sir Isaac Newton, a key figure in physics and mathematics.

Newton-Raphson Method - The Newton-Raphson method is an iterative numerical technique

used to find approximate solutions to real-valued functions. It is particularly useful for solving
equations where analytical solutions are difficult to obtain.

NFPA (National Fluid Power Association) - The NFPA is an organization that represents the
fluid power industry, focusing on promoting the use of fluid power technology and providing
resources for education and standards development.

Nil-Ductility Temperature - The nil-ductility temperature is the temperature below which a

material exhibits no ductility and fails in a brittle manner. It is an important factor in assessing the
toughness of materials, especially in low-temperature applications.
Noise - Noise refers to unwanted or disruptive sound that can interfere with communication or
cause discomfort. It is often measured in decibels (dB).

Noise Control - Noise control involves strategies and techniques used to reduce or manage noise
pollution, including sound insulation, barriers, and sound-absorbing materials.

Noise Effects and Standards - Noise effects refer to the impact of noise on health, well-being,
and productivity. Standards are established guidelines that define acceptable noise levels in
various environments to protect public health.

Noise Measurement and Analysis - Noise measurement and analysis involve quantifying noise
levels using specialized equipment and analyzing the data to assess compliance with regulations
or to identify sources of noise pollution.

Noise Measures - Noise measures are metrics used to quantify and evaluate noise levels,
including sound pressure level (SPL), equivalent continuous noise level (Leq), and peak noise
level.

Noise Radiator - A device creating noise.

Noise Spectrum - The various frequencies making a noise.

Nominal (Engineering) Strain - Nominal strain is a measure of deformation in a material,

calculated as the change in length divided by the original length. It is often used in engineering to
assess material behavior under load.

Nominal Bore - A term commonly used to identify the basic bore size without tolerance.

Normal Distribution - Normal distribution is a probability distribution that is symmetric about the
mean, showing that data near the mean are more frequent in occurrence than data far from the
mean. It is often represented as a bell curve.

Normal Distribution in Statistical Tolerancing - In statistical tolerancing, normal distribution is

used to model the variability of dimensions in manufacturing processes, allowing engineers to
determine acceptable limits for product specifications.

Normal Operating Point - The point at which normal operation is expected and optimum
efficiency of the driver or driven equipment is desired. This is usually the point at which the vendor
certifies that performance is within the tolerances stated in the standard.

Normal Segregation - Concentration of alloying constituents that have low melting points in those
portions of a casting that solidify last.

Normal Speed - The speed corresponding to the normal power, stated in revolutions per minute.

Normal Steel - Steel in which the pearlite is completely laminated.

Normal Torque - The torque that the coupling is to transmit during normal operation and usually
also during extended operation. The coupling is designed to transmit normal torque indefinitely
without damage or degradation.

Normalizing - Heating a ferrous alloy to a suitable temperature above the transformation range
and then cooling in air to a temperature substantially below the transformation range.

Notation of Datsko - The notation of Datsko refers to a specific system or method used in
engineering or mathematics to represent certain concepts or calculations, though further context
is needed for a precise definition.

Notch, Double Shear - An abrupt deviation from straight on a sheared edge.

Notch Sensitivity - Notch sensitivity is a measure of a material's susceptibility to fracture when

subjected to stress concentrations, such as notches or other geometric discontinuities.

Notched Bar - A test specimen which is notched. Used in impact or fatigue tests.
Notched Bar Test - A test to determine the resistance of a material to a suddenly applied stress,
i.e., shock.

Nozzle - Pouring spout of the bottom pour ladle.

Nozzle Brick - A thick-walled tubular refractory shape set in bottom of a ladle through which steel
is teemed.

Nozzle Pocket Brick - A refractory shape set in bottom of a ladle containing a recess in which
the nozzle is set.

Non-Aging - Little to no change in mechanical and physical properties over time; yield point
elongation is zero.

Non-Contacting Seals - Non-contacting seals are sealing devices that prevent leakage without
physical contact between the sealing surfaces, reducing wear and friction. They are commonly
used in applications where contamination must be avoided.

Non-Ferrous Metals - Non-ferrous metals are metals that do not contain significant amounts of
iron. Examples include aluminum, copper, lead, and zinc, which are valued for their properties
such as corrosion resistance and lightweight.

Non-Fill - Failure of metal to fill a forging die impression.

Non-Heat Treatable Alloy - An alloy that can be strengthened only by cold work.

Non-Intrusive Examination - The technique of determining the mechanical condition of

equipment without stopping, opening, or modifying the equipment.

Non-Refractory Alloy - A term opposed to refractory alloy.

Non-Reflow Plate (MATTE) - Does not get reflowed to melt the tin coating.

Non-Return Valve - A check valve located at the boiler steam exit, used to isolate a down boiler
and prevent steam feedback during emergencies.

Non-Synchronous - The amplitude sums of all frequencies that are not below 1X or multiples of
1X. See synchronous and sub-synchronous.

Non-Scalloping Quality Strip Steel - Strip steel ordered or sold based on the absence of
unevenness or ears on the edges of the steel when subjected to deep drawing.

Non-Return - A flapper check valve at the boiler steam exit that is used to isolate a down boiler
and to prevent steam feedback during outage emergencies.

Nitrocarburizing - Any of several processes in which both nitrogen and carbon are absorbed into
the surface layers of a ferrous material at temperatures below the lower critical temperature and,
by diffusion, create a concentration gradient.

Nitriding - Introducing nitrogen into the surface layer of a solid ferrous alloy by holding it at a
suitable temperature (below Ac1 for ferritic steels) in contact with a nitrogenous material, usually
ammonia or molten cyanide of appropriate composition.

Non-Synchronous - The amplitude sums of all frequencies that are not below 1X or multiples of
1X. See synchronous and sub-synchronous.

Nucleus - The nucleus is the central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons. It is
responsible for most of an atom's mass and plays a crucial role in nuclear reactions.

Numbering Systems for Metals - Numbering systems for metals are standardized codes used
to identify and classify different types of metals and alloys based on their composition and
properties.
Nuts - Nuts are fasteners with a hexagonal or square shape that are used in conjunction with
bolts to secure objects together. They are typically made from metal and come in various sizes
and grades.

Overload - The condition when a machine or component is subjected to a force or load exceeding
its design capacity, which can lead to failure or damage.

Oscillation - Repetitive variation, typically in time, of some measure about a central value.
Common in vibrating systems.

Open Belt Drive - A belt drive arrangement where the driver and driven pulleys rotate in the same
directions, with the belt passing over both.

Overstress - A condition where a component is subjected to stress beyond its allowable limit,
risking failure.

Offset - The distance by which one component is misaligned or displaced relative to another,
often in shafts or gears.

Oil Film - A thin layer of lubricant separating moving parts in a machine, crucial for reducing wear
and friction.

Out-of-Roundness - A deviation from the perfect round shape in rotating components like shafts
or gears, leading to imbalance and uneven wear.

On-Center Load - A load applied directly along the central axis of a machine component,
minimizing bending stresses.

Operating Speed - The speed at which a machine or component is designed to run under
normal conditions.

Oxidation - The chemical reaction where metal reacts with oxygen, often leading to corrosion in
machine parts.

Outboard Bearing - A bearing located outside the main frame of a machine, supporting extended
shafts or rotors.

Overturning Moment - A moment applied to a machine component that tends to cause rotation
or tipping, usually resisted by stabilizing forces.

Offset Joint - A joint where the two connecting parts are not aligned in the same axis, commonly
found in crank mechanisms.

Overhung Bearing - A bearing that supports a shaft at a point beyond its end. It can be used to
reduce the overall length of a machine.

Orthogonal Cutting - A type of metal cutting process in which the tool is perpendicular to the
workpiece. It is used in various machining operations, such as turning and milling.

Parallel sunk key - The parallel sunk keys may be of rectangular or square section uniform in
width and thickness throughout.

Pawl - A pivoted lever that engages with a ratchet to prevent motion in one direction.

Pillow Block: A type of bearing housing that typically includes a bearing and provides support for
a rotating shaft.

Pilot Bearing - A pilot bearing supports the end of a rotating shaft, ensuring alignment in systems
like vehicle transmissions.

Pin - A cylindrical rod used to fasten or align parts in a machine.

Pin Coupling- A type of coupling that uses pins to connect two shafts together.
Pinch Roller: A roller used to pinch and guide materials through a machine.

Pinion - A small gear that engages with a larger gear or rack.

Pinion Shaft: The shaft that carries the pinion gear in a gear system.

Pipe Fitting - A pipe fitting is a connector used to join pipes and control the flow, pressure, or
direction of fluids.

Piston - A piston is a moving component within a cylinder that transfers force from expanding
gasses or fluids to generate mechanical motion.

Piston Ring- A ring that fits into a groove on the outer diameter of a piston to seal the combustion
chamber.

Piston Rod: The rod that connects the piston to the crankshaft or other moving parts.

Pitch - The distance between corresponding points on adjacent threads or gear teeth.

Pitch circle - The imaginary circle on which gear teeth are designed and measured.

Pitch diameter - It is the diameter of an imaginary cylinder, on a cylindrical screw thread, the
surface of which would pass through the thread at such points as to equal the width of the thread
and the width of the spaces between the threads.

Pitch of rivets - The pitch of the rivets is obtained by equating the tearing resistance of the plate
to the shearing resistance of the rivets.

Pivot - A fixed point around which a mechanism rotates.

Pivot bearing - A type of bearing that allows rotational motion around a fixed axis.

Plain Bearing (Bush) - A plain bearing is a simple bearing that supports rotating or sliding
components through smooth surface contact without rolling elements.

Planetary gear - A system of gears where one or more planet gears revolve around a central sun
gear.

Plastic deformation - Permanent distortion of a material under stress, important in material

selection.

Plasticity - It is property of a material which retains the deformation produced under load
permanently.

Platen - A flat plate that presses materials together in machines like presses or printers.

Plummer block - A type of bearing housing used to support rotating shafts.

Plummer Block: A type of bearing housing that provides support for a rotating shaft with the help
of compatible bearings and various accessories.

Plunger - A plunger is a rod-like component that moves within a cylinder to transmit force,
commonly used in hydraulic and pump systems.

Plunger Pin - A plunger pin is a spring-loaded component that locks or positions machine
elements in place by retracting or engaging into a hole or slot.

Plunger Spring - A plunger spring is a spring-loaded component used to maintain tension or

apply a force to another part of a mechanism, often in valve systems or locking mechanisms.

Pneumatic Cylinder - A pneumatic cylinder converts compressed air into linear motion to move
or control machine components.

Pneumatic Relay: A device that uses air pressure to control the operation of another device.
Poppet Valve: A valve typically used in internal combustion engines, where a disk moves
perpendicularly to the seat to open and close the valve.

Power - The rate at which work is done or energy is transferred.

Power Screw: A screw designed to convert rotational motion into linear motion, often used in
lifting mechanisms.

Press fit - A fit between two parts that requires force to assemble due to interference.

Pressure angle - The angle between the line of action and the tangent to the pitch circle in gears.

Pressure Regulator - A pressure regulator is a valve that maintains consistent fluid or gas
pressure by automatically adjusting flow.

Pressure Relief Valve: A safety device designed to protect a pressurized system from
overpressure by releasing excess pressure.

Pressure Seal - A pressure seal is used to prevent leakage in pressurized systems, such as
hydraulic or pneumatic systems, ensuring fluid or gas containment.

Pressure Switch- A switch that operates based on the pressure of a fluid.

Pretension - Pre-applied force in a fastener to improve joint integrity.

Primary shaping processes - The processes used for the preliminary shaping of the machine
component are known as primary shaping processes.

Production - The component, as per the drawing, is manufactured in the workshop.

Profile - The contour or outline of a part, especially in gears and cams.

Progressive die - A tool used in stamping that performs multiple operations in a series.

Prototype - An initial or preliminary model used to test and evaluate a machine design.

Protractor - A tool used to measure angles, commonly in machine design for aligning
components.

Pulley - A wheel on an axle designed to support the movement and change the direction of a
cable or belt.

Pushrod - A pushrod is a rod that transfers motion from a camshaft or rocker arm to another part
of the mechanism, often used in engines to open and close valves.

Quality Assurance (QA): A systematic process to ensure that products and services meet
specified requirements during design, development, and production.

Quenching Bath: A medium (liquid or gas) used for the rapid cooling of metals during heat
treatment processes to alter mechanical properties like hardness.

Quality Control (QC): A set of activities and procedures to ensure a manufactured product meets
design specifications and industry standards.

Quadrature Decoder: A device used to convert the output of an incremental encoder into a
meaningful digital signal representing position, velocity, or direction.

Quick Exhaust Valve: A valve used in pneumatic systems to quickly vent air from the cylinder,
speeding up its operation.

Quick Fixing System: A design feature or system that allows for the fast and easy assembly or
disassembly of parts in a machine.
Quasi-static Loading: A condition in machine design where loads are applied slowly enough that
dynamic effects (such as vibrations) are negligible, and the system is considered to be in static
equilibrium.

Quenching Intensity: Refers to the rate at which a material (typically metal) is cooled in a
quenching process to achieve specific mechanical properties.

Quick-Join Coupling: A coupling system used in machine design for the rapid connection and
disconnection of components such as pipes or hoses.

Quasi-kinematic Design: A design philosophy aiming to minimize over-constraint in mechanical

assemblies, often to reduce friction and improve movement accuracy.

Quarter Load: Refers to a condition where a machine or component is subjected to a load that is
one-fourth of its rated capacity, often used in testing or design calculations.

Quenching Medium: The substance (water, oil, or gas) used during the quenching process to
cool materials quickly

Qorvo: A company that specializes in advanced technologies and components, including those
used in machine design, such as RF (radio frequency) and microwave components.

QoS (Quality of Service): While more commonly used in networking, QoS can also relate to
machine design in terms of ensuring reliable performance and meeting specific design criteria or
service levels.

Q-point: This refers to the quiescent point in electronics, which is the stable operating point of a
device or circuit when no signal is applied. Although it is more commonly associated with
electronics, understanding Q-points is crucial for designing and analyzing control systems and
signal processing components used in machine design.

Qp (Quality Planning): While not exclusive to machine design, quality planning involves defining
processes and standards to ensure that machine components and systems meet the required
specifications and performance criteria.

Qp (Quasi-Plastic): This term can be used to describe materials or components that exhibit
plastic behavior under certain conditions, which might be relevant in material science and
mechanical design.

QR Code: While not a machine design term per se, QR codes can be used in manufacturing and
machine design contexts for tracking and identification purposes. They might be employed for
inventory management, equipment maintenance records, or machine part identification.

QSB (Quality of Service-Based): While not a standard machine design term, "Quality of Service-
Based" can be relevant in contexts where machine performance and reliability are assessed
based on specific service quality criteria.

QST (Quench-Start-Temper): This term refers to a heat treatment process involving quenching,
followed by a start and tempering phase to achieve desired material properties.

Q-switch: This is a device used in lasers to control the timing of laser pulses. In machine design,
Q-switches are used in applications where precise, high-energy laser pulses are required, such
as in manufacturing processes involving laser cutting or marking.

QTE (Quick Test Equipment): Refers to equipment used for rapid testing of components or
systems to ensure they meet design specifications and performance standards.

Qt Framework: While not directly a machine design term, the Qt framework is a popular set of
C++ libraries used for developing cross-platform applications with graphical user interfaces. It can
be used in the development of software for machine control systems and user interfaces for
machine design applications.
Q-tip: While not directly a machine design term, Q-tips (cotton swabs) are often used in
maintenance and cleaning tasks for precision equipment. They can be used to clean small
components or delicate areas in machinery where other cleaning tools might be too large or
abrasive.

Quadrant: In machine design, a quadrant is a mechanical component that represents a quarter

of a circle and is used in various mechanisms for controlling or guiding movement. It can be found
in devices such as indexing mechanisms or in gear systems where precise angular movement is
needed.

Quality: refers to the standard of precision and reliability in the design and manufacture of
components and systems.

Quasi-static: This refers to processes or analyses where changes occur so slowly that dynamic
effects can be ignored, and the system can be approximated as being in a static state. This
concept is often used in the analysis of mechanical systems where the speeds are slow enough
that dynamic effects are negligible.

Quenching: refers to the process of rapidly cooling a material, typically metal, by immersing it in
a liquid such as water or oil. This process is used to harden the material and improve its
mechanical properties.

Rack and Pinion - A type of linear actuator that consists of a circular gear (the pinion) engaging
a linear gear (the rack), which converts rotational motion into linear motion.

Radiator - A device used for cooling by transferring heat from the fluid inside to the air outside,
often used in engines and power generation systems.

Radial Stress - Stress applied in a direction perpendicular to the radius of a cylindrical or spherical
object, often seen in pressure vessels.

Radial Load - A load applied perpendicular to the axis of a shaft or bearing, typically in
applications involving rotating machinery.

Radial Engine - A type of reciprocating engine with cylinders arranged radially around a central
crankshaft, often used in aircraft.

Rake Angle - The angle between the cutting tool face and the plane perpendicular to the
workpiece surface. It influences cutting efficiency in machining processes.

Rapid Prototyping - A group of techniques used to quickly fabricate a scale model of a part or
assembly using three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) data.

Rankine Cycle - A thermodynamic cycle used to predict the performance of steam turbine
systems. It involves the conversion of heat into mechanical work.

Reciprocating Motion - A repetitive back-and-forth linear motion, as seen in pistons within an

engine or a pump.

Refractory Material - A material capable of withstanding high temperatures without degrading,

used in furnaces, kilns, and other high-temperature applications.

Reynolds Number - A dimensionless number used in fluid mechanics to predict flow patterns in
different fluid flow situations, indicating whether the flow will be laminar or turbulent.

Rigidity Modulus (Shear Modulus) - A material property that measures the material's resistance
to shear deformation, denoted as G in engineering contexts.

Riveting - A mechanical fastening process in which metal pieces are joined by inserting and
deforming a metal pin or rivet to hold the parts together.
Rockwell Hardness: A measure of a material's hardness, determined by measuring the depth of
penetration of an indenter under a standardized load.

Roll Forging: A process in which cylindrical workpieces are passed between rotating rolls,
reducing their thickness and increasing their length.

Roll Welding: A welding process where two or more sheets or plates of metal are joined together
by being rolled under pressure.

Roller Bearing: A bearing that uses cylindrical or tapered rolling elements to reduce friction
between moving parts.

Rolling Contact: The interface where two surfaces roll over each other, typically found in bearings
and gears.

Rolling Friction: The resistive force that opposes the motion when a body rolls over a surface,
lower than sliding friction in most cases.

Rolling Mill: A machine used in manufacturing to shape or form metal sheets by passing them
between pairs of rotating rolls.

Rolling Resistance: The resistance that occurs when a body, such as a wheel or ball, rolls over a
surface due to deformation of the rolling element and the surface.

Root Diameter: The diameter at the base of the teeth in a gear or thread, also known as the minor
diameter in threads.

Rotameter: A device used to measure the flow rate of liquids or gasses in a system by monitoring
the movement of a float inside a tapered tube.

Rotational Inertia: Also called the moment of inertia, it refers to the resistance of an object to
changes in its rotational motion about an axis.

Rotational Speed: The number of complete revolutions or rotations an object makes per unit
time, usually expressed in revolutions per minute (RPM).

Rotary Actuator: A mechanical device that converts hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical energy
into rotational motion.

Rotary Compressor: A mechanical device used to compress gasses, often used in refrigeration
and air conditioning systems, employing rotating components to achieve compression.

Rotary Motion: Motion that follows a circular path around a central point or axis, common in
gears, motors, and turbines.

Rotary Valve: A valve that controls fluid or gas flow by rotating a passage inside the valve body.

Rotor: The rotating part of a mechanical device, such as an electric motor or a turbine.

Runout: The total variation in the measured position of a rotating surface, often due to
misalignment or manufacturing defects.

Rupture Strength: The maximum stress a material can withstand before it fractures or fails in
tension or compression.

Rubber Coupling: A flexible coupling that uses rubber elements to transmit torque between two
shafts while compensating for slight misalignment.

R-value (Insulation): A measure of thermal resistance used to evaluate the insulating properties
of materials in the construction industry.

Rz (Surface Roughness): A measurement used in engineering to describe the surface roughness

of a material, calculated as the average height difference between the highest peak and the lowest
valley over a specified length.
Saddle Keys - tapered, suitable for light power, and are either hollow, with a radius or curvature
slightly smaller than the shaft radius, or flat, in which case they are assembled on a flat on the
shaft. / in this type, the hub can be located in any angular position relative to the shaft.

Saw (Submerged Are Welding) - an arc welding process in which the are is submerged under a
mound of granular flux; bare filler wire is fed automatically.

Screw - A helix formed or cut on a cylindrical surface which may advance along the axis to the
right or left. The helix may be single or multiple.

Screw Thread - A ridge of uniform section or shape in the form of ahelix on the external or internal
surface of a cylinder, or in the form of a conical spiral on the external or internal surface of a cone.

Screw Plate - a set of threading tools that includes dies, taps, and the tools needed to use them.

Section Modulus - The ratio I/C

Set Screw - Usually a hardened steel screw having either no head or a square head and with
various degrees of points or ends to lock or tighten

Set-Over Screws - screws on the lathe tailstock used to align the tailstock with the headstock.

Setup Point - also home; in N/C work, a point chosen by the operator as the starting and ending
point for the N/C program.

Shaft - A rotating member transmitting power

Shaper - A machine tool in which the cutter moves in a reciprocating motion to produce flat or
partly curved surfaces on metal pieces which are held securely in a vise.

Shear Pin - used as couplings, or in addition to other couplings where, in case of overload, there
is danger of injury to machines or to material in process.

Shear Strength - resistance to cutting or slicing forces

Shim - a small thin piece of metal used between mating parts to provide the proper fit.

Shoulder Screw - A screw having two or more diameters or shoulders and commonly used for
supporting levers and other machine parts that have to operate freely.

Shrink Fit (Fn) - a force fit in which a part with an opening is heated, fitted to a mating part, then
allowed to cool, thus shrinking onto the second part.

Side-Rake - the angle formed between a lathe tool face and a horizontal plane; measured at a
right angle to the shank.

Side-Relief - also side clearance; the angle ground between a lathe tool flank and the original
side; allows the side cutting-edge to enter the work piece.

Simple Stress - A condition under which the stress is constant or uniform.

Single Thread - A screw thread cut around a cylinder having a single start in which the lead is
equal to the pitch.

Sintering - bonding powdered metals by heating a mixture of them to high temperatures below
their melting points.

Slag - By product of metal purification, welding, and casting; contains dirt, scale, and impurities.

Sliding Fit (Rc) - a close fit between two parts with enough clearance so that one can slide freely
without wobbling.

a fit that enables one part to be inserted into another by sliding or pushing, rather than by
hammering.
Smelting - the separation of a pure metal from its ore by melting in contact with a flux.

Snagging - removal of flash and other casting imperfections with a utility grinder.

Socket Head - Screw head having a hexagonal or other form of recessed socket in the head so
that the screw can be turned with a wrench or key, as a hexagon key.

Soft Soldering - a soldering method using solder with a melting point of less than 800 "F [427
°C].

Solder- (verb) to join metals with a nonferrous filler metal that has a melting point lower than the
metals to be joined;

Solution Heat Treatment - The process of holding an alloy at a suitably high temperature long
enough to permit one or more constituent to pass into solid solution

Spheroidizing - Any heating and cooling of steel that produces a rounded or globular form of
carbide.

Spindle - on metal working machines, a revolving shaft that holds and drives the cutting tool or
arbor on which the tool is mounted. Short shafts on the machine

Spline - Slot or groove cut in a shaft or bore, a splined shaft onto which a hub, wheel, gear etc.
with matching splines in its bore is assembled so that the two must turn together.

Splined Shafts - is characterized by the deep grooves, or splines, cut along the entire length of
the outer material. It makes a stronger connection.

Spool Valve - A hydraulic directional control valve in which the direction of the fluid is controlled
by the means of a grooved cylindrical shaft (spool).

Spur Gear - A toothed wheel having external radial teeth.

Spring - An elastic device which yields under stress or pressure but returns to its original state or
position when the stress or pressure is removed.

Sprue - in sand casting, the vertical channel through which molten metal flows from the pouring
basin to the runner or gate.

Square Keys - section "b x b”, and they may or may not be tapered.

Square Thread - A form of screw thread in which the cross–section of the thread forms a square,
making the width of the thread equal to the space between the threads.

Stainless Steel - an alloy of iron, chromium, and nickel or manganese; highly corrosion-resistant.
Also type 302, corrosion resistant spring wire and readily available.

Step Block - A block of steel or cast iron having a series of steps and used

for supporting the ends of machine clamps when clamping work to the table.

Stiffness - The ability to resist deformation. It is measured by Modulus of Elasticity in the elastic
range.

Stock Flanges - a continuous groove produced by using a 1/16” radius round nosed tool with a
feed of 1/32” per revolution. It may be made of cast iron or steel

Stops - Devices attached to the movable parts of a machine tool to limit the amount of travel.

Straddle Milling - using two side-milling cutters to machine two parallel sides at the same time.

Strain - Deformation per unit length.

Strain Hardening - Increasing the hardness and strength by plastic deformation at temperatures
lower than the recrystallization range.
Stress Relieving - Heating of a metal body to a suitable temperature and holding it at that
temperature for suitable time for the purpose of reducing internal stresses.

Stretchout - in sheet metal working, a pattern that shows the size and shape of the flat sheet
needed to make an object.

Stud - A rod having thread on both ends.

Stuffing Box - A chamber having manual adjustment device for sealing.

Superheat - in casting operations, the number of degrees above its melting point at which metal
is poured.

Surface Plate - a large iron or granite plate used as a flat surface on which to place a work piece
for layout.

Surface Speed - the rotation speed of a cutting tool or work piece measured at its rim, or
circumference.

Taper - A gradual reduction in diameter of a cylindrical part. Tapers are used to facilitate easy
assembly and disassembly in mechanical connections, such as shafts and holes.

Tapered Roller Bearing - A type of bearing that uses tapered rollers and races to handle both
radial and axial loads. These bearings are common in automotive and industrial machinery.

Teflon (PTFE) - A synthetic polymer known for its non-stick, low-friction properties, and resistance
to heat and chemicals, used in bearings, seals, and coatings.

Tensile Load - A force that attempts to elongate or stretch an object. It's the opposite of
compressive load.

Tensile Strength - The maximum stress a material can withstand while being stretched or pulled
before breaking. It's a key property for materials used in machine components subject to tension.

Thermal Expansion - The increase in a material’s dimensions as its temperature increases. This
property is important when designing machines that operate in varying temperature conditions.

Thread - A helical ridge on a cylindrical or conical surface, such as those found on screws and
bolts, used for fastening parts together or transmitting motion.

Thread Pitch - The distance between two consecutive threads on a screw or bolt, affecting the
mechanical performance and assembly of threaded components.

Throw - The distance a crankshaft or eccentric cam moves a piston or follower. It is half the stroke
length of the engine or machine component.

Thrust Bearing - A type of bearing designed to support axial loads (forces parallel to the axis of
rotation) in rotating machines.

Thrust Load - A load applied along the axis of a shaft or structural member, creating a pushing
force. Bearings often handle thrust loads in rotating machinery.

Tie Rod - A structural element in a machine, often a bar or rod, that resists tension and helps hold
parts together under load.

Toggle Mechanism - A mechanism that uses pivoted arms to amplify force, commonly used in
clamping and pressing applications.

Tolerance - The allowable variation in a physical dimension, ensuring that parts can still fit
together despite slight differences from the intended size.

Torsion - The twisting of an object due to an applied torque, critical in designing shafts and
components subjected to rotational forces.
Uptime - The time during which a machine or system is operational and functional, as opposed
to being down or out of service.

Undercut - A machining feature where a portion of the material is removed below a reference
surface, often to create a specific geometry or fit.

Uniformity - The degree to which parts or components of a machine are consistent in shape,
size, and quality, ensuring reliable and predictable performance.

Uplink - In machine design, this can refer to the communication link or interface between a
machine and a remote system or control unit.

Usage Factor - A design consideration that reflects the expected load or stress on a machine
during its operational lifetime, used to ensure durability and reliability.

Ultimate Strength - The maximum stress that a material can withstand before failure.

Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) - The maximum tensile stress a material can endure before
breaking.

Uniform Load - A load distributed evenly across a structural element or machine part.

Undercut - A machining feature where material is removed in a way that creates a recessed or
reduced section, often to reduce weight or provide clearance.

Unit Stress - The amount of force per unit area within a material (force divided by cross-sectional
area).

Universal Joint - A flexible coupling used to transmit motion between two non-aligned shafts.

Unbalance - The condition in a rotating system where the center of mass is not aligned with the
axis of rotation, causing vibration.

Uplift Force - A force that acts in the upward direction, typically counteracting gravity in structures
or machines.

Undamped System - A mechanical system where no energy is dissipated through damping,

resulting in sustained oscillations.

Utilization Factor - The ratio of the actual load carried by a machine component to its designed
or maximum capacity.

Ultimate Shear Strength - The maximum shear stress that a material can withstand before failure
occurs in shear.

Undercooling - The process of cooling a material below its equilibrium temperature without it
changing phase.

Uniaxial Stress - A type of stress applied in only one direction, typically referring to tension or
compression along a single axis.

Unit Power - The amount of power produced or consumed per unit of mass, volume, or length of
a material or machine component.

Unsteady Flow - A fluid flow condition where velocity, pressure, and other flow variables change
with time.

Universal Milling Machine - A type of milling machine capable of performing a wide range of
milling operations due to the adjustability of its table and the flexibility of its cutting tool positions.

Up-Milling (Conventional Milling) - A milling process where the cutting tool rotates against the
direction of the feed, resulting in a gradual increase in cutting force.
Unbalanced Load - A condition where the loads applied to a machine or structural system are
not evenly distributed, potentially causing vibration, deflection, or failure.

Ultimate Load - The maximum load a structure or machine component can withstand before
collapse or failure.

Uniform Wear Theory - A theory used in the design of sliding machine elements (such as brakes
or clutches), if wear occurs uniformly over the contact surfaces.

Vacuum - A space devoid of matter, which can be used in various machine design applications to
create conditions for operation or to aid in processes such as material handling.

Valve - A mechanical component used to control the flow of fluids (liquids or gases) within a
system, crucial in regulating pressure and flow in hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

Valve Timing - The precise timing of the opening and closing of engine valves, critical for
controlling the flow of air and fuel in internal combustion engines.

Vane Compressor - A rotary compressor that uses a series of vanes to compress air or gas by
trapping it between the vanes and the casing during rotation.

Vane Pump -: A type of positive displacement pump consisting of vanes mounted on a rotor that
moves fluid by trapping it between the vanes and the pump casing.

Variable Compression Ratio - A mechanism in some engines that allows the compression ratio
to be varied dynamically to optimize performance and efficiency.

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) - A type of motor controller that adjusts the frequency and
voltage supplied to an electric motor, allowing for variable speed control.

Variable Load - A load that changes in magnitude, direction, or point of application over time in a
mechanical system.

Variable Stiffness - The ability of a system or material to change its stiffness or resistance to
deformation in response to varying loads or conditions.

V-belt: - A type of belt with a trapezoidal cross-section that is used to transmit mechanical power
between shafts in pulleys with a V-shaped groove.

Velocity Ratio - The ratio of the speed of the driving member to the speed of the driven member
in mechanisms like gears, belts, or chains.

Ventilation - The provision of air flow to dissipate heat or contaminants in a machine or system,
ensuring proper cooling and operational efficiency.

Ventilation System - An integrated system of fans, ducts, and filters designed to ensure adequate
airflow and maintain optimal operating conditions in a machine or facility.

Venturi Effect: - A principle that describes the reduction in fluid pressure that results when a fluid
flows through a constricted section of pipe or other flow path.

Vibration Analysis - The process of monitoring and analyzing the vibration patterns of machines
and components to detect imbalances, misalignments, or mechanical faults.

Vibration Damping - The process of reducing the amplitude of oscillations or vibrations in

mechanical systems, often using dampers or materials with high damping capacity.

Vibration Isolation - A method used to reduce the transmission of vibrations from a source to its
surrounding environment by using isolators or damping materials.

Virtual Work - A principle in mechanics that relates the work done by forces to the displacement
of a system in a static or dynamic equilibrium analysis.
Viscoelasticity - The property of materials that exhibit both viscous and elastic characteristics
when undergoing deformation.

Viscosity - The resistance of a fluid to flow, which affects lubrication in machine elements such
as bearings and gears.

Volumetric Efficiency - A measure of the effectiveness of a machine (e.g., pumps or

compressors) in moving a certain volume of fluid compared to its theoretical maximum capacity.

Volumetric Strain - The change in volume of a material subjected to stress, typically measured
as a ratio of the change in volume to the original volume.

Von Mises Stress - A theoretical measure of stress that is used to predict yielding of materials
under complex loading conditions by converting the stress state into an equivalent uniaxial stress.

Vortex Shedding - A phenomenon that occurs when a fluid flows past a bluff body, creating
alternating vortices that can induce vibrations in structures.

Vulcanization - A chemical process used to improve the properties of rubber by adding sulfur,
enhancing its strength, elasticity, and durability for various machine components.

Watt: The SI unit of power, equivalent to one joule per second, used to measure mechanical and
electrical power.

Wear: The gradual removal of material from a surface due to mechanical action such as friction.

Web: A thin, flat section of a structural member that connects thicker sections like flanges.

Weight Factor: A coefficient that accounts for the influence of weight in design calculations, often
related to structural components.

Welding: A fabrication process used to join materials, usually metals, by causing coalescence.

Weight: The force exerted on a body due to gravity, important for determining load-bearing
requirements in machine design.

Wing Nut: A nut with two large metal "wings" for hand-tightening and loosening without tools.

Whirling: A vibrational phenomenon in rotating shafts where the shaft deflects and rotates in a
helical path.

Wobble: An off-axis motion that can occur in rotating machinery, leading to vibrations.

Work Hardening: The process of strengthening a material by plastic deformation.

Working Load: The load under which a machine or component operates during normal
conditions.

Worm Gear: A gear arrangement consisting of a worm (a screw) that meshes with a worm wheel,
used for high reduction ratios.

Wrap Angle: The angle subtended by a belt or rope in contact with a pulley or drum, important
for tension transmission

Wrinkling: A defect in sheet metal forming where the material folds upon itself.

Wrist Pin: Also known as a gudgeon pin, it is used to connect the piston to the connecting rod in
an internal combustion engine.

Xanthan Gum: A polysaccharide used as a stabilizer and thickener in lubricants and fluids used
in machining processes.
X-axis: In Cartesian coordinate systems, it typically refers to the horizontal axis.

X-axis drive: Refers to the drive mechanism that controls motion along the X-axis in CNC
machines or robotic arms.

X-bar: In statistics and control charts, it represents the mean of a sample.

X-cross section: Refers to the profile or cross-sectional shape of a component at a particular

point along the X-axis.

Xenon Flash Lamp: A type of gas discharge lamp used to produce brief, intense bursts of light,
often used in optical testing or laser pumping systems.

X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT): An advanced imaging method that creates 3D models from
X-rays, used in non-destructive testing and inspection of complex parts.

X-ray Diffraction (XRD): A non-destructive analytical technique used to study the crystallographic
structure of materials, helpful in material science and metallurgy.

X-ray Inspection: A non-destructive testing technique using X-rays to examine the internal
structure of materials or components.

X-Ring: A type of seal used in hydraulic or pneumatic systems that has a cross-sectional shape
resembling the letter X, providing better sealing performance than an O-ring in some applications.

X-Y Plotter: A machine used for drawing or plotting graphs, capable of moving a pen or tool along
the X and Y axes.

X-Y Table: A mechanism that allows movement in both the X (horizontal) and Y (vertical) axes,
commonly used in CNC machines or positioning systems.

Yardstick - A standard used for measuring and comparing dimensions or performance in design.

Y-axis Translation - Movement or displacement along the Y-axis, relevant in kinematics and
motion analysis.

Y-bending - A type of bending stress that occurs when a load is applied, resulting in deformation
along the Y-axis.

Yellow Brass - An alloy of copper and zinc used in various mechanical applications due to its
good corrosion resistance.

Yield Point - The yield point is defined as the point at which the material starts to deform
plastically. After the yield point is passed, permanent plastic deformation occurs.

Yield Strength- The yield strength decides whether an object is stubborn or malleable. It is the
point at which an object ceases to be elastic and becomes plastic. Yield strength helps us choose
appropriate materials for the construction based on the requirement.

Yielding - The process of a material deforming plastically under applied stress.

Y-alloy – It is called copper aluminum alloy. The addition of copper to pure aluminum increases
its strength and machinability.

Yaw- The yaw rotation is a movement around the yaw axis of a rigid body that changes the
direction it is pointing, to the left or right of its direction of motion.

Young modulus (E) – The young’s modulus is a measure of the stiffness of a material, and
represents the ability of a material to withstand changes in length when under lengthwise tension
or compression.

Yoke - A component that connects or supports other parts, often used in mechanisms.
Yoke Joint - A type of connection in mechanical systems, often used in coupling applications.

Y-strain - The strain measured in the direction of the Y-axis, typically in two-dimensional stress
analysis.

Zero-Backlash Gear - A type of gear designed to eliminate backlash, which improves accuracy
and performance in mechanical systems.

Zero-Clearance - A design feature with no gap between moving parts to prevent unwanted
movement, enhancing precision.

Zero-Friction Bearing - A bearing designed to minimize friction for smoother operation, often
used in high-speed applications.

Zero-Gravity Environment - Refers to environments where gravitational forces are minimized,

affecting component design in aerospace and related fields.

Zero-Play Mechanism - A design feature aimed at eliminating or minimizing slack in component

movement for precise operation.

Zeroth-Order System - A theoretical concept in control theory relevant to machine dynamics,

often used for modeling simple systems.

Zerostress - A design consideration aimed at minimizing internal stresses within components

under operational loads for enhanced durability.

Zeta Function - In control theory, it describes system behavior, influencing machine design and
stability analysis.

Zipper Mechanism - A mechanism that operates like a zipper, allowing for the controlled
interlocking and separation of components, useful in applications requiring frequent assembly.

Zinc Coating - A protective layer applied to components to prevent corrosion, commonly used in
outdoor and marine environments.

Zirconium Alloy - A material used in high-temperature and high-stress applications due to its
strength and corrosion resistance.

Zebra Striping - A visual pattern used in design to differentiate components or highlight areas,
aiding in usability and maintenance.

Zenith Angle - Influences designs such as solar panels, determining how effectively they capture
sunlight based on their orientation.

Zoning - The practice of dividing a design into specific areas to address different functional
requirements or manage stress distribution.

Zoning Law - Regulations that affect design and construction in broader engineering contexts,
ensuring compliance and safety.

Zone of Influence - The area around a component where its presence affects the behavior of
surrounding material or system.

Zygomatic Process - Though anatomical, its understanding can influence ergonomic designs in
machinery to improve user interaction.

Zigzag Pattern - A pattern used in certain mechanical designs to achieve specific performance
characteristics, such as flexibility or strength.