Piston

A piston is a close-fitting component that slides within a cylinder, transmitting force through a connecting mechanism or changing a fluid’s pressure and volume.

Crankshaft: A rotating shaft that converts reciprocating motion into rotation or rotation into reciprocating motion. In many engines, a connecting rod transfers the piston’s motion to this rotating shaft.
Piston pin: A cylindrical pin that joins a piston to the small end of a connecting rod. It forms the articulated joint that lets the rod swing as the piston travels.
Internal combustion engine: An engine that produces mechanical power by burning fuel inside a working chamber. Combustion pressure drives pistons in the common reciprocating-engine design.
Plunger: A cylindrical moving member that displaces fluid or applies force, often without piston rings. A plunger can perform similar work, but usually seals against the cylinder rather than carrying rings.
Connecting rod: A rigid link that transfers force and motion between a piston and a crankshaft. It carries the piston’s force to the crankshaft while accommodating changing angles.
Cylinder liner: A replaceable sleeve that forms the wear-resistant inner surface of an engine cylinder. Some engines use a liner as the precise surface against which the piston and rings slide.
Steam engine: A heat engine that uses expanding steam to produce mechanical work. Steam pressure pushes a piston, whose motion can drive machinery or a locomotive.
Diaphragm pump: A positive-displacement pump that moves fluid by flexing a membrane instead of sliding a piston. Its flexible barrier avoids the sliding seal and direct piston-fluid interface.
Piston ring: A split metal ring fitted around a piston to seal the cylinder, control oil, or transfer heat. These rings limit gas leakage and manage lubricating oil at the piston-cylinder interface.
Lubrication: The use of a substance between surfaces to reduce friction, wear, or heat. An oil film separates sliding piston components from the cylinder wall.

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