CAD Designer's
Quick Reference
Fast lookup tool for component selection in mechanical design projects
0
Component Categories
0+
Manufacturing Processes
Motors
Actuators
O-Rings
Bearings
Gears
Site by @AntDX316
Find Components Quickly
Search across all component categories to find exactly what you need for your project
Filter by:
Motors
Actuators
O-Rings
Bearings
Gears
Manufacturing
Component Categories
Comprehensive reference for the most commonly used mechanical components in CAD design projects
6 Types
Electric Motors
DC, AC, stepper, servo, and linear motors for all applications
Key Specifications
Power: 0.1W - 50kW
Voltage: 12V - 480V
Efficiency: 75-95%
Speed: 10 RPM - 100k RPM
Applications
Automation
Robotics
Industrial drives
Precision positioning
4 Types
Actuators
Electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic actuators for motion control
Key Specifications
Force: 10N - 500kN
Stroke: 25mm - 3m
Precision: ±0.001°
Speed: 5-5000 mm/s
Applications
Linear motion
Rotary positioning
Force generation
Precision control
4 Materials
O-Rings & Seals
Sealing solutions by material and form factor
Key Specifications
Temp: -65°C to 260°C
Pressure: 0.1-350 bar
Durometer: 30-90 Shore A
Standard sizes: AS568
Applications
Hydraulic seals
Pneumatic seals
Static sealing
Rotary seals
5 Types
Bearings
Ball, roller, thrust, and linear bearings for all load conditions
Key Specifications
Load: 10N - 5MN
Speed: 1-9500 RPM
Precision: P0-P2
Life: L10 10k-100k hrs
Applications
High-speed rotation
Heavy loads
Linear motion
Precision guidance
6 Types
Gears
Spur, helical, bevel, worm, planetary, and harmonic gears
Key Specifications
Ratio: 1:1 - 1000:1
Efficiency: 50-98%
Module: 0.4-6mm
Backlash: 0-30 arcmin
Applications
Speed reduction
Torque multiplication
Direction change
Precision positioning
11 Types
Springs & Dampers
Helical, flat, disc springs and shock absorbers for energy storage and damping
Key Specifications
Load: 1N - 100kN
Travel: 1-200mm
Rate: Linear/Progressive
Materials: Steel, SS, Alloys
Applications
Energy storage
Vibration damping
Force generation
Motion control
11+ Categories
Hardware & Fasteners
Comprehensive nuts, bolts, screws, and mechanical fastening systems
Key Specifications
Grades: 8.8-12.9
Threads: M3-M100
Materials: Steel, SS, Alloy
Coatings: Zinc, Chrome, Anodized
Applications
Structural connections
Removable assemblies
Security fastening
Specialized mounting
Quick Selection Guide
Fast reference cards for component selection with key specifications, pros/cons, and when to use each type
Motors Quick Reference
DC Brushed Motor
Simple speed control needed
Key Specs
12V-48V DC
75-80% efficiency
High starting torque
Advantages
Low cost
Simple control
Disadvantages
Brush maintenance
Limited speed range
Applications
Automotive
Small appliances
Power tools
DC Brushless (BLDC)
High efficiency and long life needed
Key Specs
12V-480V DC
85-95% efficiency
Electronic commutation
Advantages
No brush maintenance
High efficiency
Disadvantages
Higher cost
Complex control electronics
Applications
Electric vehicles
HVAC fans
Computer hard drives
DC Coreless
Ultra-fast response required
Key Specs
3V-48V DC
70-85% efficiency
Low inertia rotor
Advantages
Very fast response
No cogging torque
Disadvantages
Limited power
Fragile construction
Applications
Medical devices
Precision instruments
Camera autofocus
AC Induction (Squirrel Cage)
Robust industrial applications
Key Specs
200V-690V AC
80-95% efficiency
Self-starting
Advantages
Very robust
Low maintenance
Disadvantages
Lower power factor
Speed control complexity
Applications
Industrial pumps
Fans
Conveyors
AC Synchronous (PMSM)
High efficiency and precise speed
Key Specs
200V-690V AC
90-98% efficiency
Constant speed
Advantages
Highest efficiency
Excellent speed regulation
Disadvantages
Higher cost
Complex control
Applications
Electric vehicles
Industrial automation
Wind turbines
Universal Motor
AC/DC operation needed
Key Specs
110V-240V AC/DC
75-85% efficiency
Series wound
Advantages
AC/DC compatibility
High speed capability
Disadvantages
Noisy operation
Short brush life
Applications
Power tools
Kitchen appliances
Vacuum cleaners
Stepper Motor
Open-loop positioning acceptable
Key Specs
200-1000+ steps/rev
±0.05° per step
High holding torque
Advantages
No feedback needed
Precise steps
Disadvantages
Lower efficiency
Resonance issues
Applications
3D printers
Camera systems
Medical devices
Switched Reluctance (SRM)
Harsh environments, fault tolerance
Key Specs
48V-690V
85-93% efficiency
Variable reluctance
Advantages
Simple construction
Fault tolerant
Disadvantages
Torque ripple
Noise
Applications
Electric vehicles
Aerospace
Mining equipment
Linear Motor
Direct linear motion needed
Key Specs
24V-480V
70-90% efficiency
Direct linear drive
Advantages
No mechanical conversion
High precision
Disadvantages
Higher cost
Limited stroke
Applications
CNC machines
Maglev trains
Semiconductor equipment
Servo Motor
High precision positioning required
Key Specs
Millisecond response
±0.01° accuracy
High dynamic torque
Advantages
High accuracy
Fast response
Disadvantages
Higher cost
Complex control
Applications
Robotics
CNC machines
Automation
Ultrasonic Motor
Silent, precise positioning
Key Specs
Ultrasonic vibration
Silent operation
Nanometer precision
Advantages
Silent operation
High precision
Disadvantages
Limited power
Temperature sensitive
Applications
Camera autofocus
Medical devices
Optics positioning
Component Comparison Tables
Side-by-side comparison of key specifications, performance characteristics, and selection criteria
Motor Comparison
Compare key characteristics to select the best option for your application
| Type | Efficiency | Speed Control | Cost | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC Brushed | 75-80% | Simple | Low | High | Simple applications |
| DC Brushless | 85-90% | Complex | Medium | Low | High efficiency |
| AC Induction | 80-95% | Complex | Medium | Very Low | Industrial drives |
| Servo | 85-90% | Precise | High | Low | Precision control |
| Stepper | 70-85% | Digital | Medium | Very Low | Positioning |
Performance Indicators:
Excellent (4-5)
Good (3)
Limited (1-2)
Cost Considerations
Initial cost vs. operational cost over lifetime
Maintenance Requirements
Scheduled maintenance and service intervals
Environmental Factors
Operating conditions and environmental resistance
Manufacturing Processes Reference
Comprehensive guide to manufacturing processes with specifications, applications, and selection criteria
Surface Finishing
Detailed specifications and selection criteria for each manufacturing process
Anodizing
Electrochemical process for aluminum surface treatment
Compatible Materials
Aluminum alloys
6061
7075
2024
Key Specifications
Thickness: 5-25 µm typical
Colors: Clear, black, red, blue, gold
Hardness: 200-400 HV
Temperature resistance: Up to 200°C
Applications
Corrosion protection
Decorative coloring
Wear resistance
Electrical insulation
Advantages
• Excellent corrosion resistance
• Wide color range
• Electrical insulation
• Wear resistant
Considerations
• Aluminum only
• Part geometry limitations
• Masking required
• Environmental concerns
Cost Factors
Part size
Color requirements
Thickness specification
Volume
Powder Coating
Dry powder applied electrostatically and cured with heat
Compatible Materials
Steel
Aluminum
Galvanized steel
Cast iron
Key Specifications
Thickness: 25-100 µm
Cure temperature: 160-220°C
Wide color selection
Texture options available
Applications
Outdoor equipment
Appliances
Automotive parts
Furniture
Advantages
• Environmentally friendly
• Durable finish
• Cost effective
• No VOCs
Considerations
• Requires oven curing
• Difficult repairs
• Size limitations
• Static sensitive
Cost Factors
Setup costs
Curing requirements
Color changes
Part complexity
Lead Times
Process-dependent timing considerations
Cost Optimization
Volume and design considerations
Material Properties
Process-material compatibility
Quality Control
Inspection and testing requirements
Hardware & Fasteners Reference
Comprehensive catalog of nuts, bolts, and mechanical fastening systems for all applications
Nuts & Threading
Detailed specifications and selection criteria for each fastener type
General-Purpose Nuts
Standard nuts for general applications and structural use
Compatible Materials
Steel
Stainless steel
Aluminum
Brass
Zinc plated
Key Specifications
Hex nut (finished) - Standard 6-sided
Heavy hex nut (structural) - Thicker for high loads
Square nut - 4-sided, older style
Round/capstan nut - With spanner holes
Cap (acorn/dome) nut - Open or closed end
Coupling nut (long) - Extended threading
Reducing/reducer coupling nut - Size adapters
Sleeve/extension nut - Thread extenders
Jam nut (thin) - Half-height locking
Applications
General assembly
Structural connections
Machine assembly
Equipment mounting
Advantages
• Standardized
• Wide availability
• Cost effective
• Easy installation
Considerations
• Thread compatibility
• Material selection
• Corrosion protection
• Load requirements
Cost Factors
Material grade
Finish coating
Size range
Volume quantities
Hand-Tightened Nuts
Nuts designed for hand assembly without tools
Compatible Materials
Steel
Stainless steel
Aluminum
Plastic
Brass
Key Specifications
Wing nut - Two-wing design for fingers
Thumb/knurled nut - Textured grip surface
Tri-wing/tri-knob style - Three-point grip
Hand-wheel nuts - Larger diameter grips
Applications
Quick assembly
Field service
Temporary connections
User-adjustable components
Advantages
• No tools required
• Quick assembly/disassembly
• Good grip
• Reusable
Considerations
• Torque limitations
• Size requirements
• Clearance space
• Vibration resistance
Cost Factors
Complexity of grip design
Material choice
Size requirements
Locking Nuts (Vibration-Resistant)
Self-locking nuts that resist loosening from vibration
Compatible Materials
Steel
Stainless steel
Aluminum with nylon
All-metal types
Key Specifications
Nylon-insert lock nut (Nyloc) - Polymer insert
All-metal prevailing-torque - Deformed threads
Top-lock/Stover - Deformed top section
Center-lock - Deformed middle section
Elliptical/oval types - Compressed shape
Flexloc/Philidas - Slotted two-way
Serrated-flange lock nut - Grip teeth
Castellated/castle nut - With cotter pin
Keps/K-lock nut - Captive star washer
Applications
Automotive
Machinery
Aerospace
High-vibration environments
Advantages
• Vibration resistant
• Self-locking
• Reusable (some types)
• High reliability
Considerations
• Installation torque
• Temperature limits
• Reusability
• Thread damage
Cost Factors
Locking mechanism type
Material grade
Temperature rating
Flange & Integrated-Washer Nuts
Nuts with built-in washers or flanges for load distribution
Compatible Materials
Steel
Stainless steel
Aluminum
Zinc plated steel
Key Specifications
Flange nut (plain) - Smooth bearing surface
Serrated flange nut - Grip teeth prevent rotation
Conical/tapered flange nut - Angled bearing
Captive-washer nut - Free-spinning washer built in
Applications
Automotive
Sheet metal
Large bearing surfaces
Thin materials
Advantages
• Load distribution
• No separate washer
• Anti-rotation
• Single component
Considerations
• Flange diameter
• Material thickness
• Access clearance
• Serration damage
Cost Factors
Flange complexity
Serration requirements
Material specifications
Shaft, Bearing & Precision Nuts
Precision nuts for shafts, bearings, and tight-tolerance applications
Compatible Materials
Steel
Stainless steel
Brass
Hardened steel
Tool steel
Key Specifications
Round slotted spanner nut - Face-spanner tool
Bearing lock nut (KM/KML) - For tab washers
Slotted ring nut/lock ring - Groove retention
Notched collar nut - External notches
Applications
Bearing installation
Shaft retention
Machine tools
Precision equipment
Advantages
• High precision
• Specialized tooling
• Secure retention
• Professional appearance
Considerations
• Special tools required
• Precision machining
• Installation expertise
• Cost
Cost Factors
Precision requirements
Special tooling
Material specifications
Quantities
Sheet-Metal, Captive & Blind Nuts
Nuts for thin materials and blind-side installation
Compatible Materials
Steel
Stainless steel
Aluminum
Brass
Zinc plated
Key Specifications
Self-clinching (PEM-type) - Press-fit installation
Swage nuts - Deformed installation
Pierce & clinch nuts - Hole-punching installation
Weld nuts - Various weld base styles
Cage nuts (rack nuts) - Spring-retained
Speed/spring nuts - Push-on installation
U-nuts, J-nuts, S-nuts - Clip-on styles
Rivet nuts/blind nuts - Blind-side expansion
Panel nuts - Thin hex for controls
Applications
Sheet metal
Panels
Enclosures
Automotive body
Electronics
Advantages
• Thin material compatible
• Blind installation
• No back access needed
• Permanent attachment
Considerations
• Material thickness
• Installation equipment
• Permanent installation
• Access requirements
Cost Factors
Installation tooling
Material specifications
Complexity
Volume requirements
Springs & Dampers Reference
Comprehensive guide to springs and shock absorbers for energy storage, force generation, and motion control
Springs
Detailed specifications and selection criteria for each component type
Helical Compression Springs
Round-wire coil springs that resist compression forces
Compatible Materials
Music wire
Stainless steel
Chrome-silicon
Chrome-vanadium
Phosphor bronze
Key Specifications
Straight-cylindrical - Standard design
Conical/tapered - Variable rate
Barrel/convex - Space efficient
Hourglass/concave - Lateral stability
Variable-pitch - Progressive rate
Nested (coaxial) - Dual rates
Die springs - Rectangular wire, high load
End styles: Open, closed, closed-&-ground
Applications
Valve springs
Suspension systems
Shock absorbers
Industrial machinery
Advantages
• High load capacity
• Linear/progressive rates
• Space efficient
• Long service life
Considerations
• Buckling limits
• Resonant frequency
• End configuration
• Surface finish
Cost Factors
Wire material
Special geometry
End processing
Load requirements
Helical Extension & Torsion Springs
Springs that resist tension forces or provide torque
Compatible Materials
Music wire
Stainless steel
Chrome-silicon
Beryllium copper
Spring steel
Key Specifications
Extension: Hooks/loops (machine, German/English)
Full/extended loops, side hooks
Swivel hooks, threaded inserts
Drawbar springs - Internal rod stop
Torsion: Single/double torsion
Various leg angles (radial, tangential)
Garter springs - Ring form for seals
Applications
Door mechanisms
Counterbalances
Clutches
Rotating assemblies
Advantages
• Precise torque control
• Compact design
• Multiple mounting options
• Reliable operation
Considerations
• Hook stress concentration
• Leg angle accuracy
• Fatigue life
• Installation clearance
Cost Factors
Hook complexity
Torsion leg forming
Material selection
Precision requirements
Flat, Leaf & Spiral Springs
Flat strip springs for specialized applications
Compatible Materials
Spring steel
Stainless steel
Beryllium copper
Phosphor bronze
Tool steel
Key Specifications
Clock/power springs - Rotary energy storage
Constant-force (negator) - Uniform force
Hair/Breguet balance - Watchmaking precision
Leaf springs - Semi/quarter-elliptic, parabolic
Cantilever/beam - Flat strip or fingers
Volute springs - Conical flat coil
Clip/formed flat - Battery contacts, latches
Applications
Clock mechanisms
Automotive suspension
Electrical contacts
Constant force applications
Advantages
• Constant force delivery
• Compact when deflected
• High cycle life
• Precise control
Considerations
• Stress concentration
• Buckling resistance
• Material thickness
• Forming limits
Cost Factors
Material precision
Forming complexity
Heat treatment
Surface finish
Disc & Washer Springs
Conical disc springs and wave washers for compact applications
Compatible Materials
Spring steel
Stainless steel
Inconel
Chrome-silicon
Tool steel
Key Specifications
Belleville (disc) springs - Single or stacked
Series stacking: ↑travel/≈same force
Parallel stacking: ↑force/≈same travel
Wave washers - Single/multi-wave
Curved/crescent washers
Split lock (helical) washers
Tooth/star lock washers
Diaphragm springs - Clutch/brake slotted disc
Applications
High-load/low-space
Bolt tensioning
Clutch systems
Vibration dampening
Advantages
• High load/small space
• Stackable configurations
• Self-locking action
• Vibration resistance
Considerations
• Stacking arrangement
• Lateral stability
• Parallelism requirements
• Surface pressure
Cost Factors
Material grade
Precision forming
Heat treatment
Stacking quantity
Elastomeric & Air Springs
Rubber and air-based spring systems
Compatible Materials
Natural rubber
Neoprene
Polyurethane
EPDM
Silicone
Key Specifications
Rubber compression/shear mounts
Polyurethane (PU) spring rods/blocks
Bump stops - Impact absorption
Air springs (bellows/airbags)
Variable stiffness with pressure
Self-leveling capability
Temperature range: -40°C to +150°C
Applications
Vibration isolation
Vehicle suspension
Industrial mounting
Pneumatic systems
Advantages
• Vibration dampening
• Variable rate
• Non-linear response
• Maintenance-free
Considerations
• Temperature limits
• Chemical compatibility
• Pressure requirements
• Fatigue life
Cost Factors
Material selection
Molding complexity
Pressure vessel requirements
Environmental rating
Gas & Hydraulic Springs
Pressurized gas and fluid-based spring systems
Compatible Materials
Steel tubing
Stainless steel
Aluminum
Sealing elastomers
Nitrogen gas
Key Specifications
Gas springs/struts - Lift supports
Standard, locking (rigid extension)
Traction/pull-type configuration
Hydraulic/gas dampers - Spring + damping
Hydropneumatic accumulators
Pressure range: 50-3000 psi
Temperature range: -20°C to +80°C
Applications
Lift supports
Hood/trunk struts
Adjustable furniture
Industrial machinery
Advantages
• Smooth operation
• Variable force
• Self-contained
• Position holding
Considerations
• Pressure loss
• Seal integrity
• Temperature effects
• Mounting orientation
Cost Factors
Pressure rating
Sealing system
End fittings
Gas filling requirements
Specialty Springs & Retainers
Torsion bars and spring-action fasteners
Compatible Materials
Spring steel
Alloy steel
Stainless steel
Carbon steel
Tool steel
Key Specifications
Torsion bars - Straight bar resists twist
Hairpin/hinge springs - Formed wire
Over-center (snap) springs - Toggle action
Circlips/snap rings - Internal/external
R-clips/hairpin cotters
Speed/U/J clips - Sheet-metal fasteners
E-clips, C-clips - Shaft retention
Applications
Vehicle suspension
Retaining systems
Quick-release mechanisms
Safety clips
Advantages
• Compact design
• Positive retention
• Quick assembly
• High cycle life
Considerations
• Installation access
• Removal method
• Groove requirements
• Safety factors
Cost Factors
Material hardness
Forming complexity
Heat treatment
Plating/coating