Primary Components

Components that are fundamental to mechanical systems

Shafts
Mechanical shafts are fundamental components in machine design, responsible for transmitting power or motion
between different parts of a mechanical system

Spindle
A rotating shaft in machinery such as lathes, drills, or milling
Stepped shaft machines, responsible for holding and spinning the tool or
workpiece. Spindles ensure precision and smooth rotation in
A shaft with varying diameters along its length, typically used to
machining operations
accommodate different bearings, gears, or other machine
components. The "steps" provide support for parts with different
size requirements or allow for secure mounting.
 Crankshaft
A shaft with offset cranks or arms, converting linear motion into
rotational motion, commonly found in engines where it transfers
the reciprocating motion of pistons into rotational energy to
drive the machinery

Railway rotating axle

A shaft that connects the wheels of a railway vehicle and rotates
with them, transmitting torque while supporting the vehicle's
weight. These axles endure significant loads and stresses during
operation

Camshaft
These shafts have cams (raised or shaped lobes) along their
length and are typically used in engines to control the timing
and movement of intake and exhaust valves, synchronizing with
the crankshaft

Fastners
 Machine screw
A type of screw with a uniform diameter and threads that is
designed to be used with a nut or tapped hole. It is commonly
used in machinery, appliances, and electronic devices for
assembly and fastening applications.

Sheet metal screw

A type of self-tapping screw with a sharp point and threads
designed to fasten sheet metal to wood or metal substrates. It is
commonly used in HVAC systems, metal roofing, and automotive
applications.

Hex head screw

A screw with a hexagonal head designed for use with a wrench
or socket for fastening materials together. It is commonly used in
construction, automotive, and industrial applications for secure Wood screw
and reliable fastenings. A screw designed for fastening wood to wood or other materials.
It has a tapered point and coarse threads to provide a strong
grip in wood substrates. Wood screws are commonly used in
furniture assembly, carpentry, and construction.
Drywall screw Deck screw
A type of self-tapping screw with a bugle head and fine threads A type of screw designed for fastening decking materials to
designed for fastening drywall to wood or metal studs. Drywall wood or metal framing. It features a corrosion-resistant coating
screws are commonly used in interior construction and and special threads for secure attachment in outdoor
remodeling projects. environments. Deck screws are commonly used in deck
construction and outdoor projects.

Socket screw
A screw with a cylindrical head and internal hexagonal drive
socket. It is commonly used in machinery, automotive, and
industrial applications for high-torque fastening and assembly.

Set screw
A screw used to secure an object within or against another
object. It typically has no head and is threaded along the entire
length. Set screws are commonly used in machinery, automotive,
and construction applications for alignment and locking
purposes.
 Thread-cutting & Thread-forming
screw
A screw designed to cut (or form) its own threads in a pre-drilled
hole. It is commonly used in metal, plastic, and wood
applications for creating strong and secure fastenings without
the need for tapping threads.

Shoulder screw
A screw with a cylindrical shoulder between the head and the
threads. It is commonly used in machinery, tooling, and
automotive applications for precise spacing and alignment
requirements.

Thumb screw
A screw with a large head and knurled edges for hand-tightening
without the need for tools. It is commonly used in applications
where frequent adjustments or removals are required, such as
machinery, fixtures, and equipment.
Weld screw
A screw designed for welding to metal surfaces for permanent
fastening. It features a threaded shank and a flat or flanged head
for secure attachment in welding applications. Weld screws are
commonly used in automotive, construction, and industrial
projects.
 Drive screw
A screw with a slotted or square drive head for fastening
materials together. It is commonly used in woodworking,
furniture assembly, and general construction applications for
secure and reliable fastenings.
Captivated screw
A screw with a captive washer or retainer to prevent the screw
from disengaging from the assembly. It is commonly used in
electronics, automotive, and aerospace applications for secure
and reliable fastenings in high-vibration environments.

Tamper-resistant screw
A screw designed to deter tampering or unauthorized removal
by requiring a special tool or driver for installation and removal.
It is commonly used in public facilities, security systems, and
equipment where security is a concern.

Nuts and Washers

 Lock Nut
A nut designed with a mechanism to prevent loosening under
vibration or rotation. Types include nylon-insert (with a non-
metallic insert), deformed thread (slightly oval shape), and all-
metal (with a distorted top flange).

Hex Nut
A fastener with a hexagonal shape and internal threads, designed
to be tightened or loosened using a wrench. It's the most
common type of nut due to its versatility and ease of use.

Wing Nut Cap Nut (Acorn Nut)

A nut with two flat projections (wings) perpendicular to its axis, A decorative nut with a domed, closed end that covers the bolt
allowing for hand tightening without tools. Ideal for applications thread. It provides a finished appearance and protects against
requiring frequent adjustment or removal. corrosion and injury from exposed threads.
 Castle Nut
A nut with slots cut into one end, designed to be used with a
cotter pin or safety wire. It provides a secure, locking connection
in applications where loosening could be catastrophic.

Flange Nut
A nut with an integrated, wide flange at its base that serves as a
built-in washer. It distributes load over a larger area and can
reduce assembly time by eliminating the need for a separate
washer.

T-Nut
A nut with a long, thin body and a flange with sharp prongs. It's
designed to be embedded in wood or soft materials, with the
prongs preventing rotation when a bolt is tightened.

Cage Nut
A nut encased in a spring steel cage, allowing it to float and self-
align. Commonly used in rack mounting systems where precise
alignment might be difficult.
Coupling Nut Jam Nut
A cylindrical nut with internal threads running its entire length, A thin nut, typically half the height of a standard nut, used in
used to join two threaded rods or bolts end-to-end. Also known pairs to lock a threaded fastener in place. The two nuts are
as a connecting nut or extension nut. tightened against each other to prevent loosening.

K-Lock Nut
A self-locking nut featuring a deformed thread at the top
portion. The "K" refers to the shape of the deformed thread
when viewed in cross-section. It provides resistance to vibration
and loosening without the need for additional locking devices.

Square Nut
A nut with a square external shape and internal threads. It's
designed for use in applications where a hex nut might rotate,
such as in slotted holes or channels. The flat sides provide more
surface area contact, increasing resistance to turning.
 Split Lock Washer
A ring-shaped washer with a cut at one point and twisted so that
each side of the cut is on a different plane. It exerts pressure
when compressed, resisting loosening due to vibration.

Flat Washer
A thin, flat disk with a center hole, used to distribute the load of
a threaded fastener. It provides a smooth bearing surface and
protects the surface being fastened.

Fender Washer
A flat washer with an unusually large outside diameter in
proportion to its center hole. It's used to distribute load over a
larger area, particularly with soft or thin materials.

Belleville Washer
A slightly conical spring washer that, when compressed, provides
tension in the fastened joint. It's used for applications requiring
high load capacity in a small space.
Wave Washer Tooth Lock Washer
A washer with a wavy profile that acts like a spring when A washer with serrations or teeth on its inner or outer edge (or
compressed. It's used to accommodate thermal expansion, both). These teeth bite into the bearing surface, preventing
maintain tension, or take up play in assemblies. rotation and loosening of the fastener.

Shoulder Washer
A washer with a cylindrical shoulder or sleeve extending from
one side. It's used to insulate screws electrically, maintain
spacing, or act as a bushing in assemblies.

Square Washer
A flat, square-shaped washer with a center hole. It provides a
larger bearing surface than round washers and is often used in
wood construction or with U-bolts.
 Countersunk Washer
A washer with a tapered edge designed to match the angle of a
countersunk screw head. It allows the screw to sit flush with or
below the surface of the material.

Nord-Lock Washer
A pair of washers with radial teeth on one side and a cam surface
on the other. When tightened, the cams rise up, creating a
wedge effect that prevents loosening even under extreme
vibration.

Gears
Gears are mechanical components with teeth that mesh with other gear teeth to transmit torque and motion. They
are primarily used to alter the speed, direction, and torque of mechanical power in systems. By varying the size, shape, and
arrangement of gears, they can increase speed (at the expense of torque), amplify torque (while reducing speed), or
change the direction of movement. Gears are essential in machinery, automotive systems, and many mechanical devices,
allowing for efficient power transmission and mechanical advantage in various applications.

Straight spur gear

A gear with straight teeth that are parallel to the axis of rotation.
Rach and pinion
It transmits power between parallel shafts with high efficiency A linear gear system where a round gear (pinion) engages with a
but generates noise at high speeds due to abrupt tooth flat, toothed bar (rack), converting rotational motion into linear
engagement motion, commonly used in steering systems and linear actuators
Bevel Gear
A cone-shaped gear with teeth cut along its surface, used to
transmit power between shafts that intersect at an angle,
typically 90 degrees, found in differential drives and gearboxes

Worm and Worm Gear

A gear system consisting of a screw-like worm that meshes with
a worm gear (similar to a spur gear), transmitting motion at 90
degrees while achieving high torque reduction and self-locking
capabilities

Helical Rack and Pinion

A variation of the rack and pinion where the pinion gear has
helical teeth, offering smoother and quieter linear motion
transmission compared to straight rack and pinion systems

Helical Spur Gear

A spur gear with angled teeth, providing smoother and quieter
operation than straight spur gears due to gradual tooth
engagement. It can transmit power between parallel or crossed
shafts
Spiral Bevel Gear Crown Gear
A type of bevel gear with curved, spiral-shaped teeth, offering A type of bevel gear with teeth cut perpendicular to the plane of
smoother and quieter power transmission between intersecting the gear, resembling a crown. It engages with other bevel gears
shafts, typically used in automotive differentials and is often used in right-angle gear drives

Hypoid Gear
A type of bevel gear where the axes of the gears are offset,
offering smoother and quieter operation at high speeds, used in
automotive differentials for torque transmission with a lower
center of gravity
Internal Gear
A gear with teeth on the inner circumference of a ring, used in
applications like planetary gear systems where it meshes with
external gears inside it to transmit motion.
 Planetary Gear / Epicyclic Gear / Sun
and Planet Gear

Springs

Compression Springs
Helical springs that resist compressive forces, compressing under
load to store energy, often used in suspensions.
Machined Springs
Precision springs machined from solid materials, providing
customized performance in high-tolerance applications like
aerospace.
Extension Springs
Helical springs with hooks or loops that extend under tension,
storing energy in applications like door mechanisms.

Conical Springs
Tapered springs with a variable coil diameter, providing stability
and allowing more compact stacking when compressed.

Disck Springs (Belleville)

Cone-shaped, disc-like springs that provide high force with
minimal movement, ideal for vibration damping and heavy loads.

Torsion Springs
Springs that twist to apply rotational force, commonly used in
hinges and vehicle suspensions for torque resistance.
 Leaf Springs
Long, flat, layered spring used in vehicle suspensions, providing
load-bearing and shock absorption.

Spiral Springs
Flat, coiled springs that store rotational energy, often used in
clocks and mechanical timers.

Belts

Round Belts
Circular cross-section belts often used for light-duty power
transmission, ideal for small pulleys and precise alignment.

Flat Belts
A smooth, flexible belts used for high-speed, low-torque power
transmission across pulleys.
 Timing Belts
Toothed belts that synchronize the rotation of shafts, ensuring
precise motion transfer in engines and machinery.

V-Belts
V-shaped belts that fit into matching pulley grooves for efficient
power transfer with minimal slippage.

Double-sided Timing Belts

Timing belts with teeth on both sides, allowing for power
transmission on both faces in complex mechanisms.

Power Screws
Acme Screws
Heavy-duty power screws with trapezoidal threads, designed for
carrying significant loads

Trapezoidal Screws
Power screws with trapezoidal threads, offering precise linear
motion with moderate efficiency. The thread angle is 30 degrees,
compared to 29 degrees for ACME screws.

Square Thread Screws

Efficient power screws with square threads, ideal for heavy load-
bearing but harder to manufacture.
Ball Screws
High-efficiency power screws using ball bearings to reduce
friction for smooth, precise motion.
 Buttress Screws
Power screws with asymmetrical threads, optimized for
transmitting force in one direction.

Bearings

Ball Bearing
A bearing with spherical balls between inner and outer rings,
reducing friction for smooth rotation, widely used in machinery
and appliances.
Angular Contact Bearing
A ball bearing designed to support combined radial and axial
loads with angular alignment, often used in high-speed
applications like turbines.
Thrust Ball Bearing Thrust Rooler Bearing
A ball bearing specifically for axial loads, not radial loads, ideal A roller bearing designed to handle high axial loads and some
for low-speed applications such as swivel chairs. radial loads, commonly used in heavy machinery and automotive
applications.

Spherical Roller Bearing

A self-aligning bearing with barrel-shaped rollers, suited for high
load capacity and misaligned shafts in heavy-duty machinery.

Tapered Roller Bearing

Conical rollers positioned at an angle, supporting heavy radial
and axial loads, commonly used in vehicle wheel assemblies.
 Plain Bearing
A simple, friction-based bearing without rolling elements, used in
low-cost and low-maintenance applications such as door hinges.
Needle Roller Bearing
A compact bearing with thin, cylindrical rollers, effective for high
radial load capacities in confined spaces, like automotive
components.

Journal Bearing
A type of plain bearing where a shaft rotates within a lubricated
sleeve, ideal for high-load, low-speed applications like engine
crankshafts.

Wheel Hub Bearing

An integrated bearing assembly for vehicle wheels, providing
smooth rotation and supporting weight and loads from the road.
 Magnetic Bearing
A frictionless bearing that uses magnetic fields to levitate a
rotating shaft, enabling high-speed, low-wear applications in
specialized machinery.

Linear Bearing
A bearing designed for linear motion along a rail or guide,
commonly used in CNC machinery for precise movement.

Pillow Block Bearing

Flange Bearing

Keys and Pins

 Woodruff Keys
Semi-circular keys that fit into a machined pocket in a shaft,
providing secure alignment for gears and pulleys, commonly
used in small machinery.

Square Keys
Rectangular or square keys that fit into matching keyways on a
shaft and hub, used to transmit torque without taper.

Taper Keys
Keys with a slight taper to lock tightly in place as they’re driven,
ideal for secure torque transmission and easy removal.

Feather Keys
Keys fixed to the shaft and allowing axial movement in the hub,
facilitating sliding motion, often used in machine tools.
 Spring Pins (Roll Pins)
Hollow, slotted pins that expand to fit tightly in holes, used for
secure alignment under light loads in moving parts.

Solid Pins
Simple cylindrical pins used to fix, align, or join components,
often employed in non-moving parts of machinery.

Grooved Pins
Cotter Pins Pins with grooves along the length for a press-fit, providing a
Bent metal pins inserted through holes and bent back, used to secure hold in components that need reliable alignment.
secure nuts or other fasteners, often in axles and shafts.
 Clevis Pins
Straight, cylindrical pins with a head and hole for a cotter pin, Taper Pins
used in conjunction with clevis fasteners to form a rotating joint. Pins with a gradual taper along the length, creating a tight fit
when driven into a tapered hole, often used in tool and die
applications.

Quick-Release Pins
Pins with a locking mechanism or push-button, allowing rapid
removal and reinsertion in applications requiring frequent
disassembly.

Other Primary Components

Timing Belt Pulley V-Belt Pulley

Sprockets Chains
 Bushing Spacers

Secondary Components

Components that are not fundamental but complete the mechanism

Couplings

Rigid Coupling Sleeve Coupling

Rigid Coupling Sleeve Coupling

Flange Coupling Split Muff Coupling

Flange Coupling Split Muff Coupling

Gear Coupling Fluid Coupling

Gear Coupling Fluid Coupling

Universal Coupling Jam Coupling

Universal Coupling Jam Coupling

 Bellow Coupling Flexible Coupling

Bellow Coupling Flexible Coupling

Constant Speed Coupling Daphragm Coupling

Constant Speed Coupling Daphragm Coupling

Jaw Coupling Oldham Coupling

Jaw Coupling Oldham Coupling

Locking Elements

Retaining Rings Two-Piece Shrink discs

Retaining Rings Two-Piece Shrink discs

Three-Piece Shrink discs Cup point set screws

Three-Piece Shrink discs Cup point set screws

Cone point set screws Flat point set screws

Cone point set screws Flat point set screws

Set screw collars Clamping collars

Set screw collars Clamping collars

Two-piece collars Hose clamp

Two-piece collars Hose clamp

Wires and Cables

 Fiber Core Wire Rope

Fiber Core Wire Rope

Wire Strand Core (WSC)

Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC)

Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC)

Bowden cable

Tension cable

Seals
 Gaskets O-Rings

Gaskets O-Rings

Wire seals Radial shaft seals

Wire seals Radial shaft seals

Mechanical seal

Mechanical seal

Other Secondary Components

Freewheels Retaining Rings

Freewheels Retaining Rings

Sliders Pistons

Sliders Pistons

Active Components
Motors
Actuators
Pumps
Heating Elements

Custom-Made Components
Bodies
Structures
Flywheels
Cams

Common Assemblies
Brakes
Clutches
Differentials