RayMing PCB: Definitions of Common Parts

Introduction

Understanding the terminology used to describe parts and components is essential across various industries and fields. Whether you're working in manufacturing, engineering, mechanics, construction, or simply trying to understand product specifications, having a clear grasp of common parts definitions can significantly improve communication and efficiency. This comprehensive guide aims to provide detailed definitions of parts and components commonly used across multiple industries, their functions, specifications, and applications.

The importance of standardized terminology cannot be overstated. When engineers, technicians, manufacturers, and consumers all use the same language to describe components, it reduces errors, improves design processes, facilitates easier repairs and maintenance, and enhances overall product quality. This article serves as a reference guide for professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering clear definitions organized by industry and application.

Mechanical Parts and Components

Fasteners

Fasteners are devices that mechanically join or affix two or more objects together. They form the backbone of countless assemblies across industries.

Bolts and Screws

Bolts and screws are threaded fasteners designed to be inserted through holes in assembled parts, mating with a pre-formed thread or creating their own thread.

Bolts

A bolt is a threaded fastener with a head on one end and threads on the other end designed to be inserted through holes in assembled parts and secured with a nut.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Hex Bolts Six-sided head for tool gripping Structural connections, machinery Steel, stainless steel, brass
Carriage Bolts Smooth rounded head with square neck Wood connections, fencing Steel, galvanized steel
U-Bolts U-shaped with threaded ends Pipe mounting, suspension systems Steel, stainless steel
Eye Bolts Looped head for attachments Lifting applications, securing loads Steel, stainless steel
Anchor Bolts Embedded in concrete foundations Securing structures to foundations Steel, galvanized steel

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Hex Bolts	Six-sided head for tool gripping	Structural connections, machinery	Steel, stainless steel, brass
Carriage Bolts	Smooth rounded head with square neck	Wood connections, fencing	Steel, galvanized steel
U-Bolts	U-shaped with threaded ends	Pipe mounting, suspension systems	Steel, stainless steel
Eye Bolts	Looped head for attachments	Lifting applications, securing loads	Steel, stainless steel
Anchor Bolts	Embedded in concrete foundations	Securing structures to foundations	Steel, galvanized steel

Screws

A screw is a threaded fastener that either mates with a pre-formed thread or creates its own thread as it's driven into material.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Wood Screws Sharp point, partially threaded Wood construction Steel, brass, stainless steel
Machine Screws Fully threaded, blunt end Metal components Steel, stainless steel, brass
Self-Tapping Screws Create their own threads Sheet metal, plastic Steel, stainless steel
Set Screws No head, prevent movement Securing parts on shafts Steel, stainless steel
Drywall Screws Special threading for gypsum Drywall installation Phosphate-coated steel

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Wood Screws	Sharp point, partially threaded	Wood construction	Steel, brass, stainless steel
Machine Screws	Fully threaded, blunt end	Metal components	Steel, stainless steel, brass
Self-Tapping Screws	Create their own threads	Sheet metal, plastic	Steel, stainless steel
Set Screws	No head, prevent movement	Securing parts on shafts	Steel, stainless steel
Drywall Screws	Special threading for gypsum	Drywall installation	Phosphate-coated steel

Nuts

Nuts are fasteners with a threaded hole designed to be paired with a compatible bolt or screw.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Hex Nuts Six-sided standard nuts General purpose Steel, stainless steel, brass
Lock Nuts Prevent loosening Vibration environments Steel, nylon insert
Wing Nuts Hand-tightened with "wings" Temporary assemblies Steel, brass
Acorn Nuts Decorative with closed end Finished applications Steel, stainless steel
T-Nuts Insert into wood with prongs Woodworking Steel, zinc-plated

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Hex Nuts	Six-sided standard nuts	General purpose	Steel, stainless steel, brass
Lock Nuts	Prevent loosening	Vibration environments	Steel, nylon insert
Wing Nuts	Hand-tightened with "wings"	Temporary assemblies	Steel, brass
Acorn Nuts	Decorative with closed end	Finished applications	Steel, stainless steel
T-Nuts	Insert into wood with prongs	Woodworking	Steel, zinc-plated

Washers

Washers are thin plates with a hole, typically used to distribute load, prevent loosening, or provide spacing.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Flat Washers Simple load distribution General purpose Steel, stainless steel, plastic
Lock Washers Prevent fastener loosening Vibration environments Spring steel, stainless steel
Fender Washers Large outer diameter Thin materials Steel, stainless steel
Shoulder Washers Provide electrical isolation Electrical applications Nylon, plastic
Belleville Washers Conical spring washers High load applications Spring steel, stainless steel

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Flat Washers	Simple load distribution	General purpose	Steel, stainless steel, plastic
Lock Washers	Prevent fastener loosening	Vibration environments	Spring steel, stainless steel
Fender Washers	Large outer diameter	Thin materials	Steel, stainless steel
Shoulder Washers	Provide electrical isolation	Electrical applications	Nylon, plastic
Belleville Washers	Conical spring washers	High load applications	Spring steel, stainless steel

Pins and Clips

Pins and clips provide temporary or permanent connections often without threading.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Cotter Pins Split pins for holes Securing rotating parts Steel, stainless steel
Dowel Pins Cylindrical pins Alignment, connections Steel, stainless steel, plastic
Roll Pins Spring steel tube High-stress connections Spring steel
E-clips E-shaped retaining rings Shaft retention Spring steel, stainless steel
C-clips C-shaped retaining rings Groove retention Spring steel, stainless steel

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Cotter Pins	Split pins for holes	Securing rotating parts	Steel, stainless steel
Dowel Pins	Cylindrical pins	Alignment, connections	Steel, stainless steel, plastic
Roll Pins	Spring steel tube	High-stress connections	Spring steel
E-clips	E-shaped retaining rings	Shaft retention	Spring steel, stainless steel
C-clips	C-shaped retaining rings	Groove retention	Spring steel, stainless steel

Bearings

Bearings are components designed to reduce friction between moving parts and support loads.

Ball Bearings

Ball bearings use balls to maintain separation between bearing races, reducing friction in rotational applications.

Type Description Common Applications Load Capacity
Deep Groove Ball Bearings Standard design Electric motors, wheels Medium radial, low thrust
Angular Contact Ball Bearings Designed for combined loads Machine tool spindles Medium radial, medium thrust
Self-Aligning Ball Bearings Compensate for misalignment Conveyor systems Medium radial, low thrust
Thrust Ball Bearings Support axial loads Lazy Susans, bar stools Low radial, high thrust
Linear Ball Bearings Motion along a single axis 3D printers, CNC machines Guide linear motion

Type	Description	Common Applications	Load Capacity
Deep Groove Ball Bearings	Standard design	Electric motors, wheels	Medium radial, low thrust
Angular Contact Ball Bearings	Designed for combined loads	Machine tool spindles	Medium radial, medium thrust
Self-Aligning Ball Bearings	Compensate for misalignment	Conveyor systems	Medium radial, low thrust
Thrust Ball Bearings	Support axial loads	Lazy Susans, bar stools	Low radial, high thrust
Linear Ball Bearings	Motion along a single axis	3D printers, CNC machines	Guide linear motion

Roller Bearings

Roller bearings use cylindrical rollers instead of balls, allowing them to handle heavier loads.

Type Description Common Applications Load Capacity
Cylindrical Roller Bearings Line contact with races Industrial gearboxes High radial, low thrust
Tapered Roller Bearings Tapered design for combined loads Automotive wheel hubs High radial, high thrust
Needle Roller Bearings Small diameter rollers Automotive transmissions High radial, compact design
Spherical Roller Bearings Self-aligning capabilities Heavy machinery Very high radial, medium thrust
Thrust Roller Bearings Support axial loads Vertical pump shafts Low radial, very high thrust

Type	Description	Common Applications	Load Capacity
Cylindrical Roller Bearings	Line contact with races	Industrial gearboxes	High radial, low thrust
Tapered Roller Bearings	Tapered design for combined loads	Automotive wheel hubs	High radial, high thrust
Needle Roller Bearings	Small diameter rollers	Automotive transmissions	High radial, compact design
Spherical Roller Bearings	Self-aligning capabilities	Heavy machinery	Very high radial, medium thrust
Thrust Roller Bearings	Support axial loads	Vertical pump shafts	Low radial, very high thrust

Plain Bearings

Plain bearings (also called bushings) have no rolling elements, relying instead on a sliding surface.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Sleeve Bushings Simple cylindrical design Door hinges, pivots Bronze, plastic, composite
Flanged Bushings With flange on one end Mounting assemblies Bronze, steel, plastic
Thrust Washers Flat washers for axial loads Gear assemblies Bronze, steel, PTFE
Self-Lubricating Bushings Contain lubricant in material Low-maintenance applications Oil-impregnated bronze, PTFE
Split Bushings Split design for easy installation Retrofit applications Bronze, steel, composite

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Sleeve Bushings	Simple cylindrical design	Door hinges, pivots	Bronze, plastic, composite
Flanged Bushings	With flange on one end	Mounting assemblies	Bronze, steel, plastic
Thrust Washers	Flat washers for axial loads	Gear assemblies	Bronze, steel, PTFE
Self-Lubricating Bushings	Contain lubricant in material	Low-maintenance applications	Oil-impregnated bronze, PTFE
Split Bushings	Split design for easy installation	Retrofit applications	Bronze, steel, composite

Gears

Gears are toothed components that transmit rotational motion and force between shafts.

Spur Gears

Spur gears have straight teeth parallel to the gear axis and transmit motion between parallel shafts.

Parameter Description Common Applications Material Options
Pitch Distance between teeth Determines gear size Parameter, not material
Pressure Angle Angle of tooth force Typically 14.5° or 20° Parameter, not material
Face Width Width of tooth surface Based on load requirements Parameter, not material
Materials - Clocks, simple machinery Steel, brass, plastic, nylon
Noise Level Relatively noisy - -

Parameter	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Pitch	Distance between teeth	Determines gear size	Parameter, not material
Pressure Angle	Angle of tooth force	Typically 14.5° or 20°	Parameter, not material
Face Width	Width of tooth surface	Based on load requirements	Parameter, not material
Materials	-	Clocks, simple machinery	Steel, brass, plastic, nylon
Noise Level	Relatively noisy	-	-

Helical Gears

Helical gears have teeth cut at an angle to the gear axis, creating smoother operation than spur gears.

Parameter Description Common Applications Material Options
Helix Angle Angle of teeth to axis Typically 15° to 30° Parameter, not material
Thrust Load Creates axial force Requires thrust bearings Parameter, not material
Noise Level Quieter than spur gears - -
Materials - Automotive transmissions Steel, bronze, nylon
Efficiency Higher than spur gears Power transmission -

Parameter	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Helix Angle	Angle of teeth to axis	Typically 15° to 30°	Parameter, not material
Thrust Load	Creates axial force	Requires thrust bearings	Parameter, not material
Noise Level	Quieter than spur gears	-	-
Materials	-	Automotive transmissions	Steel, bronze, nylon
Efficiency	Higher than spur gears	Power transmission	-

Bevel Gears

Bevel gears transmit motion between intersecting shafts, typically at 90-degree angles.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Straight Bevel Straight teeth Hand drills, differential gear Steel, bronze
Spiral Bevel Curved teeth Automotive differentials Hardened steel
Hypoid Gears Offset shaft design Rear-wheel drive vehicles Hardened steel
Miter Gears Equal-sized bevel gears Right-angle drives Steel, bronze, plastic
Crown Gears Teeth on flat surface Specialized applications Steel, brass

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Straight Bevel	Straight teeth	Hand drills, differential gear	Steel, bronze
Spiral Bevel	Curved teeth	Automotive differentials	Hardened steel
Hypoid Gears	Offset shaft design	Rear-wheel drive vehicles	Hardened steel
Miter Gears	Equal-sized bevel gears	Right-angle drives	Steel, bronze, plastic
Crown Gears	Teeth on flat surface	Specialized applications	Steel, brass

Worm Gears

Worm gears consist of a worm (screw) and worm wheel (gear) to transmit motion between perpendicular shafts.

Parameter Description Common Applications Material Options
Ratio High reduction ratios Typically 20:1 to 300:1 Parameter, not material
Self-Locking Prevents back-driving Lifting equipment, gates Function, not material
Efficiency Lower than other gears - -
Materials - Winches, conveyor systems Steel worm, bronze wheel
Heat Generation Higher than other gears Requires cooling for heavy use -

Parameter	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Ratio	High reduction ratios	Typically 20:1 to 300:1	Parameter, not material
Self-Locking	Prevents back-driving	Lifting equipment, gates	Function, not material
Efficiency	Lower than other gears	-	-
Materials	-	Winches, conveyor systems	Steel worm, bronze wheel
Heat Generation	Higher than other gears	Requires cooling for heavy use	-

Shafts and Keys

Shafts transmit rotational motion and torque between components, while keys prevent relative rotation between shafts and hubs.

Types of Shafts

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Transmission Shafts Transfer power between components Machinery, vehicles Steel, alloy steel
Countershafts Intermediate shafts in machinery Machine tools Steel, alloy steel
Line Shafts Main power transmission shaft Factory equipment Steel
Flexible Shafts Allow bending during rotation Handheld tools Steel cable with housing
Splined Shafts Multiple keys integral to shaft Automotive transmissions Hardened steel

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Transmission Shafts	Transfer power between components	Machinery, vehicles	Steel, alloy steel
Countershafts	Intermediate shafts in machinery	Machine tools	Steel, alloy steel
Line Shafts	Main power transmission shaft	Factory equipment	Steel
Flexible Shafts	Allow bending during rotation	Handheld tools	Steel cable with housing
Splined Shafts	Multiple keys integral to shaft	Automotive transmissions	Hardened steel

Keys and Keyways

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Square Keys Equal width and height General machinery Steel, stainless steel
Rectangular Keys Width greater than height Heavy machinery Steel
Woodruff Keys Semi-circular keys Machine tools Steel
Gib Head Keys With head for easy removal Temporary connections Steel
Splines Multiple keys integral to shaft Automotive applications Part of shaft

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Square Keys	Equal width and height	General machinery	Steel, stainless steel
Rectangular Keys	Width greater than height	Heavy machinery	Steel
Woodruff Keys	Semi-circular keys	Machine tools	Steel
Gib Head Keys	With head for easy removal	Temporary connections	Steel
Splines	Multiple keys integral to shaft	Automotive applications	Part of shaft

Seals and Gaskets

Seals and gaskets prevent leakage, contamination, and pressure loss between joined surfaces.

Dynamic Seals

Dynamic seals work between surfaces with relative motion.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Lip Seals Flexible lip against moving surface Rotating shafts Rubber, PTFE, elastomers
O-Rings Circular cross-section rings Hydraulic cylinders Rubber, Viton, silicone
Mechanical Seals Face seals for rotating equipment Pumps, mixers Carbon, ceramic, silicon carbide
Piston Rings Seal between piston and cylinder Engines, compressors Cast iron, steel, PTFE
V-Rings V-shaped cross-section Rotating shafts Rubber, polyurethane

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Lip Seals	Flexible lip against moving surface	Rotating shafts	Rubber, PTFE, elastomers
O-Rings	Circular cross-section rings	Hydraulic cylinders	Rubber, Viton, silicone
Mechanical Seals	Face seals for rotating equipment	Pumps, mixers	Carbon, ceramic, silicon carbide
Piston Rings	Seal between piston and cylinder	Engines, compressors	Cast iron, steel, PTFE
V-Rings	V-shaped cross-section	Rotating shafts	Rubber, polyurethane

Static Seals

Static seals work between surfaces with no relative motion.

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Gaskets Compressed between flanges Pipe connections, engines Paper, rubber, cork, metal
O-Rings (static) Used in grooves Pressure vessels Rubber, Viton, silicone
Compression Packings Compressed into stuffing boxes Valve stems PTFE, graphite, fiber
RTV Sealants Room temperature vulcanizing Engine components Silicone, polyurethane
Anaerobic Sealants Cure in absence of air Threaded connections Methacrylate ester

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Gaskets	Compressed between flanges	Pipe connections, engines	Paper, rubber, cork, metal
O-Rings (static)	Used in grooves	Pressure vessels	Rubber, Viton, silicone
Compression Packings	Compressed into stuffing boxes	Valve stems	PTFE, graphite, fiber
RTV Sealants	Room temperature vulcanizing	Engine components	Silicone, polyurethane
Anaerobic Sealants	Cure in absence of air	Threaded connections	Methacrylate ester

Electrical Components

Resistors

Resistors are components that implement electrical resistance in a circuit, limiting current flow.

Fixed Resistors

Type Description Common Applications Power Range
Carbon Composition Carbon powder in resin Vintage equipment 1/8W to 2W
Carbon Film Carbon on ceramic core General electronics 1/8W to 2W
Metal Film Metal on ceramic core Precision circuits 1/8W to 1W
Wire Wound Wire wrapped around core Power electronics 1W to 100W+
SMD Resistors Surface mount technology Modern electronics 1/16W to 1W

Type	Description	Common Applications	Power Range
Carbon Composition	Carbon powder in resin	Vintage equipment	1/8W to 2W
Carbon Film	Carbon on ceramic core	General electronics	1/8W to 2W
Metal Film	Metal on ceramic core	Precision circuits	1/8W to 1W
Wire Wound	Wire wrapped around core	Power electronics	1W to 100W+
SMD Resistors	Surface mount technology	Modern electronics	1/16W to 1W

Variable Resistors

Type Description Common Applications Adjustment Type
Potentiometers Three-terminal variable resistors Volume controls Rotary, slide
Rheostats Two-terminal variable resistors Power control Rotary
Trimmers Small adjustment potentiometers Circuit calibration Screwdriver
Thermistors Temperature-sensitive resistors Temperature sensing Temperature
Photoresistors Light-sensitive resistors Light sensing Light exposure

Type	Description	Common Applications	Adjustment Type
Potentiometers	Three-terminal variable resistors	Volume controls	Rotary, slide
Rheostats	Two-terminal variable resistors	Power control	Rotary
Trimmers	Small adjustment potentiometers	Circuit calibration	Screwdriver
Thermistors	Temperature-sensitive resistors	Temperature sensing	Temperature
Photoresistors	Light-sensitive resistors	Light sensing	Light exposure

Capacitors

Capacitors store and release electrical energy in an electric field.

Polarized Capacitors

Type Description Common Applications Capacitance Range
Electrolytic High capacitance, polarized Power supplies 1µF to 100,000µF
Tantalum Stable, high capacitance Portable electronics 0.1µF to 1000µF
Supercapacitors Very high capacitance Energy storage 0.1F to 3000F
Aluminum Polymer Low ESR, high ripple current Computer power supplies 10µF to 1000µF
Niobium Oxide Alternative to tantalum Military, aerospace 0.1µF to 1000µF

Type	Description	Common Applications	Capacitance Range
Electrolytic	High capacitance, polarized	Power supplies	1µF to 100,000µF
Tantalum	Stable, high capacitance	Portable electronics	0.1µF to 1000µF
Supercapacitors	Very high capacitance	Energy storage	0.1F to 3000F
Aluminum Polymer	Low ESR, high ripple current	Computer power supplies	10µF to 1000µF
Niobium Oxide	Alternative to tantalum	Military, aerospace	0.1µF to 1000µF

Non-Polarized Capacitors

Type Description Common Applications Capacitance Range
Ceramic Small, non-polarized High-frequency circuits 1pF to 1µF
Film Stable, good tolerance Audio circuits 100pF to 10µF
Mica Precision, low loss RF circuits 1pF to 0.1µF
Glass Stable, high voltage High-voltage applications 1pF to 0.01µF
Variable Adjustable capacitance Tuning circuits 5pF to 500pF

Type	Description	Common Applications	Capacitance Range
Ceramic	Small, non-polarized	High-frequency circuits	1pF to 1µF
Film	Stable, good tolerance	Audio circuits	100pF to 10µF
Mica	Precision, low loss	RF circuits	1pF to 0.1µF
Glass	Stable, high voltage	High-voltage applications	1pF to 0.01µF
Variable	Adjustable capacitance	Tuning circuits	5pF to 500pF

Inductors

Inductors store energy in a magnetic field when current flows through them.

Type Description Common Applications Inductance Range
Air Core No core material RF circuits 0.1µH to 1mH
Iron Core Ferromagnetic core Power supplies 1mH to 10H
Ferrite Core Ceramic ferromagnetic core EMI filtering 10µH to 100mH
Toroidal Donut-shaped core Power supplies 10µH to 10H
Variable Adjustable inductance Tuning circuits 0.1µH to 100mH

Type	Description	Common Applications	Inductance Range
Air Core	No core material	RF circuits	0.1µH to 1mH
Iron Core	Ferromagnetic core	Power supplies	1mH to 10H
Ferrite Core	Ceramic ferromagnetic core	EMI filtering	10µH to 100mH
Toroidal	Donut-shaped core	Power supplies	10µH to 10H
Variable	Adjustable inductance	Tuning circuits	0.1µH to 100mH

Semiconductor Components

Diodes

Diodes allow current to flow in one direction only.

Type Description Common Applications Forward Voltage
Rectifier Diodes Convert AC to DC Power supplies 0.7V to 1.7V
Zener Diodes Voltage regulation Voltage references 2.4V to 200V
Schottky Diodes Fast switching, low forward voltage High-frequency circuits 0.15V to 0.45V
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) Emit light when conducting Indicators, lighting 1.8V to 3.3V
Photodiodes Light-sensitive diodes Light detection Varies

Type	Description	Common Applications	Forward Voltage
Rectifier Diodes	Convert AC to DC	Power supplies	0.7V to 1.7V
Zener Diodes	Voltage regulation	Voltage references	2.4V to 200V
Schottky Diodes	Fast switching, low forward voltage	High-frequency circuits	0.15V to 0.45V
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)	Emit light when conducting	Indicators, lighting	1.8V to 3.3V
Photodiodes	Light-sensitive diodes	Light detection	Varies

Transistors

Transistors are semiconductor devices used to amplify or switch electronic signals.

Type Description Common Applications Functionality
Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJT) Current-controlled Amplifiers, switches NPN, PNP
Field Effect Transistors (FET) Voltage-controlled Low power circuits N-channel, P-channel
MOSFETs Metal-oxide semiconductor FET Power electronics Enhancement, depletion
IGBTs Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor High power applications Combines BJT and MOSFET
Darlington Transistors Compound transistors High gain applications NPN, PNP

Type	Description	Common Applications	Functionality
Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJT)	Current-controlled	Amplifiers, switches	NPN, PNP
Field Effect Transistors (FET)	Voltage-controlled	Low power circuits	N-channel, P-channel
MOSFETs	Metal-oxide semiconductor FET	Power electronics	Enhancement, depletion
IGBTs	Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor	High power applications	Combines BJT and MOSFET
Darlington Transistors	Compound transistors	High gain applications	NPN, PNP

Integrated Circuits

Integrated circuits contain multiple electronic components on a single semiconductor chip.

Type Description Common Applications Complexity
Op-Amps Operational amplifiers Signal processing Medium
Microcontrollers Programmable chips Embedded systems High
Logic Gates Digital logic functions Digital circuits Low
Memory Chips Data storage Computers, devices High
Voltage Regulators Maintain constant voltage Power supplies Medium

Type	Description	Common Applications	Complexity
Op-Amps	Operational amplifiers	Signal processing	Medium
Microcontrollers	Programmable chips	Embedded systems	High
Logic Gates	Digital logic functions	Digital circuits	Low
Memory Chips	Data storage	Computers, devices	High
Voltage Regulators	Maintain constant voltage	Power supplies	Medium

Switches and Relays

Switches

Switches manually control electrical circuits by opening or closing contacts.

Type Description Common Applications Configuration
Toggle Switches Manual lever operation Control panels SPST, DPDT, etc.
Pushbutton Switches Press to operate User interfaces Momentary, latching
Rocker Switches Rocking operation Appliances SPST, DPDT
DIP Switches Multiple tiny switches Circuit configuration 2 to 12 positions
Rotary Switches Multiple position selection Equipment selection Various poles/positions

Type	Description	Common Applications	Configuration
Toggle Switches	Manual lever operation	Control panels	SPST, DPDT, etc.
Pushbutton Switches	Press to operate	User interfaces	Momentary, latching
Rocker Switches	Rocking operation	Appliances	SPST, DPDT
DIP Switches	Multiple tiny switches	Circuit configuration	2 to 12 positions
Rotary Switches	Multiple position selection	Equipment selection	Various poles/positions

Relays

Relays are electrically operated switches that use an electromagnet to control a switching mechanism.

Type Description Common Applications Switching Current
Electromechanical Relays Mechanical contacts Industrial control 1A to 20A
Reed Relays Magnetic reed switches Telecommunications 0.5A to 3A
Solid State Relays No moving parts Sensitive electronics 1A to 100A+
Time Delay Relays Built-in timing function Sequencing Varies
Latching Relays Maintains state Energy-saving applications Varies

Type	Description	Common Applications	Switching Current
Electromechanical Relays	Mechanical contacts	Industrial control	1A to 20A
Reed Relays	Magnetic reed switches	Telecommunications	0.5A to 3A
Solid State Relays	No moving parts	Sensitive electronics	1A to 100A+
Time Delay Relays	Built-in timing function	Sequencing	Varies
Latching Relays	Maintains state	Energy-saving applications	Varies

Electronic Connectors

Power Connectors

Type Description Common Applications Current Rating
IEC C13/C14 Computer power connector Computers, monitors 10A to 15A
NEMA Plugs Standard US power plugs Household appliances 15A to 50A
DC Power Jacks Barrel connectors Small electronics 1A to 5A
Anderson Powerpole Genderless power connectors Amateur radio, robotics 15A to 45A
Terminal Blocks Screw connection points Fixed installations 10A to 100A+

Type	Description	Common Applications	Current Rating
IEC C13/C14	Computer power connector	Computers, monitors	10A to 15A
NEMA Plugs	Standard US power plugs	Household appliances	15A to 50A
DC Power Jacks	Barrel connectors	Small electronics	1A to 5A
Anderson Powerpole	Genderless power connectors	Amateur radio, robotics	15A to 45A
Terminal Blocks	Screw connection points	Fixed installations	10A to 100A+

Data Connectors

Type Description Common Applications Data Rate
USB Universal Serial Bus Computers, peripherals Up to 40 Gbps (USB4)
HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface Audio/video equipment Up to 48 Gbps (HDMI 2.1)
Ethernet (RJ45) Network connections Computer networking Up to 10 Gbps
DisplayPort Digital display interface Monitors, graphics cards Up to 80 Gbps (DP 2.0)
Thunderbolt Combined data/display Apple products, high-end PCs Up to 40 Gbps

Type	Description	Common Applications	Data Rate
USB	Universal Serial Bus	Computers, peripherals	Up to 40 Gbps (USB4)
HDMI	High-Definition Multimedia Interface	Audio/video equipment	Up to 48 Gbps (HDMI 2.1)
Ethernet (RJ45)	Network connections	Computer networking	Up to 10 Gbps
DisplayPort	Digital display interface	Monitors, graphics cards	Up to 80 Gbps (DP 2.0)
Thunderbolt	Combined data/display	Apple products, high-end PCs	Up to 40 Gbps

Signal Connectors

Type Description Common Applications Feature
BNC Bayonet Neill-Concelman Test equipment, video Quick connect/disconnect
D-Sub D-shaped multi-pin Legacy equipment 9 to 50 pins
DIN/Mini-DIN Circular multi-pin Audio, keyboards 3 to 8 pins
XLR External Line Return Professional audio Balanced audio, locking
RCA Radio Corporation of America connector Consumer audio/video Color-coded

Type	Description	Common Applications	Feature
BNC	Bayonet Neill-Concelman	Test equipment, video	Quick connect/disconnect
D-Sub	D-shaped multi-pin	Legacy equipment	9 to 50 pins
DIN/Mini-DIN	Circular multi-pin	Audio, keyboards	3 to 8 pins
XLR	External Line Return	Professional audio	Balanced audio, locking
RCA	Radio Corporation of America connector	Consumer audio/video	Color-coded

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Components

Hydraulic Components

Pumps and Motors

Type Description Common Applications Pressure Range
Gear Pumps Simple, reliable General hydraulics Up to 3,000 PSI
Piston Pumps High pressure, efficient Heavy equipment Up to 10,000 PSI
Vane Pumps Smooth operation Industrial machinery Up to 3,000 PSI
Hydraulic Motors Convert hydraulic to mechanical energy Mobile equipment Varies
Accumulators Store hydraulic energy Shock absorption Matches system pressure

Type	Description	Common Applications	Pressure Range
Gear Pumps	Simple, reliable	General hydraulics	Up to 3,000 PSI
Piston Pumps	High pressure, efficient	Heavy equipment	Up to 10,000 PSI
Vane Pumps	Smooth operation	Industrial machinery	Up to 3,000 PSI
Hydraulic Motors	Convert hydraulic to mechanical energy	Mobile equipment	Varies
Accumulators	Store hydraulic energy	Shock absorption	Matches system pressure

Valves

Type Description Common Applications Function
Directional Control Control flow direction System control Direct flow
Pressure Control Regulate pressure System protection Limit pressure
Flow Control Regulate flow rate Speed control Control actuator speed
Check Valves One-way flow Prevent backflow Allow flow in one direction
Proportional Valves Electronically controlled Precise control Variable flow/pressure

Type	Description	Common Applications	Function
Directional Control	Control flow direction	System control	Direct flow
Pressure Control	Regulate pressure	System protection	Limit pressure
Flow Control	Regulate flow rate	Speed control	Control actuator speed
Check Valves	One-way flow	Prevent backflow	Allow flow in one direction
Proportional Valves	Electronically controlled	Precise control	Variable flow/pressure

Cylinders and Actuators

Type Description Common Applications Design Feature
Single-Acting Cylinders Powered in one direction Simple lifting Spring return
Double-Acting Cylinders Powered in both directions Bidirectional force Two pressure ports
Telescoping Cylinders Extended reach Mobile equipment Nested design
Rotary Actuators Rotational motion Limited rotation applications Vane or piston design
Hydraulic Motors Continuous rotation Drive systems Various displacement

Type	Description	Common Applications	Design Feature
Single-Acting Cylinders	Powered in one direction	Simple lifting	Spring return
Double-Acting Cylinders	Powered in both directions	Bidirectional force	Two pressure ports
Telescoping Cylinders	Extended reach	Mobile equipment	Nested design
Rotary Actuators	Rotational motion	Limited rotation applications	Vane or piston design
Hydraulic Motors	Continuous rotation	Drive systems	Various displacement

Pneumatic Components

Air Preparation

Type Description Common Applications Function
Filters Remove contaminants All pneumatic systems Clean air
Regulators Control pressure All pneumatic systems Constant pressure
Lubricators Add oil mist Non-lubricated systems Component lubrication
Dryers Remove moisture Precision applications Prevent corrosion
FRL Units Filter, Regulator, Lubricator General pneumatics Complete air preparation

Type	Description	Common Applications	Function
Filters	Remove contaminants	All pneumatic systems	Clean air
Regulators	Control pressure	All pneumatic systems	Constant pressure
Lubricators	Add oil mist	Non-lubricated systems	Component lubrication
Dryers	Remove moisture	Precision applications	Prevent corrosion
FRL Units	Filter, Regulator, Lubricator	General pneumatics	Complete air preparation

Valves

Type Description Common Applications Function
Directional Control Control air flow direction System control Direct flow
Pressure Control Regulate air pressure System protection Limit pressure
Flow Control Regulate flow rate Speed control Control actuator speed
Check Valves One-way flow Prevent backflow Allow flow in one direction
Quick Exhaust Rapid cylinder return Fast cycling Quick air release

Type	Description	Common Applications	Function
Directional Control	Control air flow direction	System control	Direct flow
Pressure Control	Regulate air pressure	System protection	Limit pressure
Flow Control	Regulate flow rate	Speed control	Control actuator speed
Check Valves	One-way flow	Prevent backflow	Allow flow in one direction
Quick Exhaust	Rapid cylinder return	Fast cycling	Quick air release

Cylinders and Actuators

Type Description Common Applications Design Feature
Single-Acting Cylinders Powered in one direction Simple operations Spring return
Double-Acting Cylinders Powered in both directions Bidirectional force Two air ports
Rodless Cylinders No extending rod Space-constrained applications Internal piston connection
Rotary Actuators Rotational motion Limited rotation applications Vane design
Air Motors Continuous rotation Non-electrical environments Various power ranges

Type	Description	Common Applications	Design Feature
Single-Acting Cylinders	Powered in one direction	Simple operations	Spring return
Double-Acting Cylinders	Powered in both directions	Bidirectional force	Two air ports
Rodless Cylinders	No extending rod	Space-constrained applications	Internal piston connection
Rotary Actuators	Rotational motion	Limited rotation applications	Vane design
Air Motors	Continuous rotation	Non-electrical environments	Various power ranges

Construction Components

Structural Elements

Beams and Columns

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
I-Beams I-shaped cross-section Building frames Steel, aluminum
H-Beams H-shaped cross-section Heavy construction Steel
C-Channels C-shaped cross-section Framing, supports Steel, aluminum
Angles L-shaped cross-section Connection points Steel, aluminum
Box Sections Hollow square/rectangular Columns, posts Steel, aluminum

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
I-Beams	I-shaped cross-section	Building frames	Steel, aluminum
H-Beams	H-shaped cross-section	Heavy construction	Steel
C-Channels	C-shaped cross-section	Framing, supports	Steel, aluminum
Angles	L-shaped cross-section	Connection points	Steel, aluminum
Box Sections	Hollow square/rectangular	Columns, posts	Steel, aluminum

Foundation Elements

Type Description Common Applications Features
Footings Distribute load to soil Building foundations Spread or continuous
Piers Column-like support Elevated structures Concrete or steel
Piles Deep foundation elements Unstable soils Driven or cast-in-place
Grade Beams Horizontal support beams Connect columns Reinforced concrete
Foundation Walls Perimeter support Basements Concrete, block

Type	Description	Common Applications	Features
Footings	Distribute load to soil	Building foundations	Spread or continuous
Piers	Column-like support	Elevated structures	Concrete or steel
Piles	Deep foundation elements	Unstable soils	Driven or cast-in-place
Grade Beams	Horizontal support beams	Connect columns	Reinforced concrete
Foundation Walls	Perimeter support	Basements	Concrete, block

Framing Components

Wood Framing

Type Description Common Applications Dimensions
Studs Vertical framing members Wall construction 2×4, 2×6
Joists Horizontal support members Floor construction 2×8, 2×10, 2×12
Rafters Roof framing members Roof construction 2×6, 2×8, 2×10
Headers Support over openings Doors, windows Various sizes
Plates Horizontal connecting members Top/bottom of walls 2×4, 2×6

Type	Description	Common Applications	Dimensions
Studs	Vertical framing members	Wall construction	2×4, 2×6
Joists	Horizontal support members	Floor construction	2×8, 2×10, 2×12
Rafters	Roof framing members	Roof construction	2×6, 2×8, 2×10
Headers	Support over openings	Doors, windows	Various sizes
Plates	Horizontal connecting members	Top/bottom of walls	2×4, 2×6

Metal Framing

Type Description Common Applications Material
Metal Studs Vertical framing Commercial walls Galvanized steel
Steel Joists Horizontal support Commercial floors Steel
Steel Trusses Engineered roof support Large spans Steel
Angles L-shaped connection points Various connections Steel
Channels C-shaped members Headers, supports Steel

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material
Metal Studs	Vertical framing	Commercial walls	Galvanized steel
Steel Joists	Horizontal support	Commercial floors	Steel
Steel Trusses	Engineered roof support	Large spans	Steel
Angles	L-shaped connection points	Various connections	Steel
Channels	C-shaped members	Headers, supports	Steel

Roofing Components

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Shingles Overlapping roof covering Residential roofing Asphalt, wood, slate
Metal Panels Sheet metal roof covering Commercial, residential Steel, aluminum, copper
Membrane Roofing Single-ply membrane Flat roofs EPDM, TPO, PVC
Tiles Individual ceramic pieces Upscale residential Clay, concrete
Sheathing Structural decking All roofs Plywood, OSB

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Shingles	Overlapping roof covering	Residential roofing	Asphalt, wood, slate
Metal Panels	Sheet metal roof covering	Commercial, residential	Steel, aluminum, copper
Membrane Roofing	Single-ply membrane	Flat roofs	EPDM, TPO, PVC
Tiles	Individual ceramic pieces	Upscale residential	Clay, concrete
Sheathing	Structural decking	All roofs	Plywood, OSB

Finishing Materials

Type Description Common Applications Material Options
Drywall Interior wall covering Interior walls/ceilings Gypsum board
Siding Exterior wall covering Exterior walls Vinyl, wood, fiber cement
Flooring Floor covering Interior floors Wood, laminate, tile, carpet
Trim Decorative edge treatment Windows, doors, edges Wood, MDF, PVC
Ceiling Tiles Modular ceiling covering Commercial spaces Mineral fiber, metal

Type	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Drywall	Interior wall covering	Interior walls/ceilings	Gypsum board
Siding	Exterior wall covering	Exterior walls	Vinyl, wood, fiber cement
Flooring	Floor covering	Interior floors	Wood, laminate, tile, carpet
Trim	Decorative edge treatment	Windows, doors, edges	Wood, MDF, PVC
Ceiling Tiles	Modular ceiling covering	Commercial spaces	Mineral fiber, metal

Automotive Parts

Engine Components

Internal Components

Component Description Function Material
Pistons Cylindrical components Convert pressure to motion Aluminum alloy
Connecting Rods Link pistons to crankshaft Transfer force Forged steel, titanium
Crankshaft Converts linear to rotational motion Power transmission Forged steel
Camshaft Controls valve timing Valve operation Cast iron, steel
Valves Control gas flow Intake/exhaust regulation Steel, titanium

Component	Description	Function	Material
Pistons	Cylindrical components	Convert pressure to motion	Aluminum alloy
Connecting Rods	Link pistons to crankshaft	Transfer force	Forged steel, titanium
Crankshaft	Converts linear to rotational motion	Power transmission	Forged steel
Camshaft	Controls valve timing	Valve operation	Cast iron, steel
Valves	Control gas flow	Intake/exhaust regulation	Steel, titanium

External Components

Component Description Function System
Cylinder Head Top of engine block Seal combustion chamber Engine
Intake Manifold Distributes air to cylinders Air delivery Intake system
Exhaust Manifold Collects exhaust gases Exhaust removal Exhaust system
Oil Pan Contains engine oil Oil reservoir Lubrication system
Timing Cover Protects timing components Component protection Engine

Component	Description	Function	System
Cylinder Head	Top of engine block	Seal combustion chamber	Engine
Intake Manifold	Distributes air to cylinders	Air delivery	Intake system
Exhaust Manifold	Collects exhaust gases	Exhaust removal	Exhaust system
Oil Pan	Contains engine oil	Oil reservoir	Lubrication system
Timing Cover	Protects timing components	Component protection	Engine

Transmission Components

Component Description Function Type
Gears Toothed wheels Transfer power at different ratios Manual/Automatic
Clutch Engagement/disengagement mechanism Connect/disconnect power Manual
Torque Converter Fluid coupling Replace clutch function Automatic
Synchronizers Matching gear speeds Smooth shifting Manual
Valve Body Control hydraulic pressure Shift control Automatic

Component	Description	Function	Type
Gears	Toothed wheels	Transfer power at different ratios	Manual/Automatic
Clutch	Engagement/disengagement mechanism	Connect/disconnect power	Manual
Torque Converter	Fluid coupling	Replace clutch function	Automatic
Synchronizers	Matching gear speeds	Smooth shifting	Manual
Valve Body	Control hydraulic pressure	Shift control	Automatic

Suspension and Steering

Component Description Function Location
Shock Absorbers Dampen oscillations Control bounce and rebound All wheels
Springs Support vehicle weight Absorb impacts All wheels
Control Arms Link wheels to frame Control wheel movement Front/rear suspension
Tie Rods Connect steering to wheels Transfer steering input Front wheels
Steering Rack Convert rotary to linear motion Steering mechanism Front suspension

Component	Description	Function	Location
Shock Absorbers	Dampen oscillations	Control bounce and rebound	All wheels
Springs	Support vehicle weight	Absorb impacts	All wheels
Control Arms	Link wheels to frame	Control wheel movement	Front/rear suspension
Tie Rods	Connect steering to wheels	Transfer steering input	Front wheels
Steering Rack	Convert rotary to linear motion	Steering mechanism	Front suspension

Brake System

Component Description Function Type
Brake Pads Friction material Create stopping force Disc brakes
Brake Rotors Rotating discs Surface for pad contact Disc brakes
Brake Shoes Curved friction material Create stopping force Drum brakes
Brake Drums Rotating cylinders Surface for shoe contact Drum brakes
Calipers House brake pads Apply pressure to pads Disc brakes

Component	Description	Function	Type
Brake Pads	Friction material	Create stopping force	Disc brakes
Brake Rotors	Rotating discs	Surface for pad contact	Disc brakes
Brake Shoes	Curved friction material	Create stopping force	Drum brakes
Brake Drums	Rotating cylinders	Surface for shoe contact	Drum brakes
Calipers	House brake pads	Apply pressure to pads	Disc brakes

Manufacturing Process Components

Machining Components

Component Description Common Applications Material Options
Cutting Tools Remove material Milling, turning, drilling Carbide, HSS, ceramic
Tool Holders Secure cutting tools Various machining Steel, carbide
Collets Precision tool gripping Tool holding Hardened steel
Fixtures Hold workpieces Precise positioning Steel, aluminum
Jigs Guide tools Repeated accuracy Steel, aluminum

Component	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Cutting Tools	Remove material	Milling, turning, drilling	Carbide, HSS, ceramic
Tool Holders	Secure cutting tools	Various machining	Steel, carbide
Collets	Precision tool gripping	Tool holding	Hardened steel
Fixtures	Hold workpieces	Precise positioning	Steel, aluminum
Jigs	Guide tools	Repeated accuracy	Steel, aluminum

Casting Components

Component Description Common Applications Material Options
Patterns Original form for mold Create mold cavity Wood, metal, plastic
Molds Contain molten material Shape the casting Sand, metal, ceramic
Cores Create internal features Hollow sections Sand, metal
Gating Systems Direct metal flow Ensure proper filling Part of mold
Risers Provide extra material Prevent shrinkage Part of mold

Component	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Patterns	Original form for mold	Create mold cavity	Wood, metal, plastic
Molds	Contain molten material	Shape the casting	Sand, metal, ceramic
Cores	Create internal features	Hollow sections	Sand, metal
Gating Systems	Direct metal flow	Ensure proper filling	Part of mold
Risers	Provide extra material	Prevent shrinkage	Part of mold

Injection Molding Components

Component Description Common Applications Material Options
Mold Base Foundation of mold Support components Steel
Cavities Negative space of part Form the part Hardened steel
Cores Create internal features Hollow sections Hardened steel
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Component	Description	Common Applications	Material Options
Mold Base	Foundation of mold	Support components	Steel
Cavities	Negative space of part	Form the part	Hardened steel
Cores	Create internal features	Hollow sections	Hardened steel
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Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Definitions of Common Parts

Introduction

Mechanical Parts and Components

Fasteners

Bolts and Screws

Bolts

Screws

Nuts

Washers

Pins and Clips

Bearings

Ball Bearings

Roller Bearings

Plain Bearings

Gears

Spur Gears

Helical Gears

Bevel Gears

Worm Gears

Shafts and Keys

Types of Shafts

Keys and Keyways

Seals and Gaskets

Dynamic Seals

Static Seals

Electrical Components

Resistors

Fixed Resistors

Variable Resistors

Capacitors

Polarized Capacitors

Non-Polarized Capacitors

Inductors

Semiconductor Components

Diodes

Transistors

Integrated Circuits

Switches and Relays

Switches

Relays

Electronic Connectors

Power Connectors

Data Connectors

Signal Connectors

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Components

Hydraulic Components

Pumps and Motors

Valves

Cylinders and Actuators

Pneumatic Components

Air Preparation

Valves

Cylinders and Actuators

Construction Components

Structural Elements

Beams and Columns

Foundation Elements

Framing Components

Wood Framing

Metal Framing

Roofing Components

Finishing Materials

Automotive Parts

Engine Components

Internal Components

External Components

Transmission Components

Suspension and Steering

Brake System

Manufacturing Process Components

Machining Components

Casting Components

Injection Molding Components

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