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Mechanical Engineering vocabulary · Maintenance and Reliability

Overhaul

Meaning in mechanical engineering, with examples

/ˈoʊvərhɔːl/nounCommon term

In mechanical engineering, overhaul means: A complete inspection and repair of a machine in which it is taken apart, cleaned and checked, and worn parts are replaced, so that it works almost like new.

In Turkish: revizyon, genel bakım, elden geçirme

How it is used

Used for engines, pumps, compressors, gearboxes and turbines. An overhaul is planned and usually done after a set number of operating hours. It is also a verb: to overhaul a compressor. A major overhaul is much bigger than routine maintenance.

Example sentences

  1. The turbine is due for a major overhaul after 40,000 operating hours.

  2. We overhauled the gearbox and replaced all the bearings and seals.

Common collocations

  • major overhaul
  • complete overhaul
  • engine overhaul
  • overhaul interval
  • carry out an overhaul
  • preventive maintenanceMaintenance done at planned intervals, such as lubricating, inspecting and replacing worn parts, to stop equipment from breaking down unexpectedly.
  • spare partA replacement part kept in stock so that a worn or broken part can be changed quickly, for example a bearing, seal, belt or motor.
  • downtimeThe time when a machine or production line is not working because of a breakdown, maintenance, a changeover or a lack of material.
  • wearThe gradual loss of material from a surface caused by friction, rubbing or hard particles during use, for example on bearings, gears, seals and cutting tools.

More terms: Maintenance and Reliability

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