Machine design occupies a prominent position in the curriculum of Mechanical Engineering. It consists
of application of scientific principles, technical information and imagination for the development of a
new or improved machine or mechanical system to perform specific functions with maximum economy
and efficiency. The task of the machine designer has never been easy, since he has to consider a number
of factors, which are not always compatible. In the context of today’s technical and social climate, the
designer’s task has become more difficult. The designer today is required to account for many factors
and considerations that are almost impossible for one individual to be thoroughly conversant with. At
the same time, he cannot afford to play the role of say a music director. He must have a special competence
of his own and a reasonable knowledge of the other ‘instruments’.
This book is intended to serve as a textbook for the course in machine design. It covers the syllabi of
universities, technical boards and professional examining bodies in the country. This textbook is particularly
written for the students of the Indian sub-continent, who find difficulties while adopting the
textbooks written by foreign authors. The main features of the book are:
(i) SI system of units is used throughout the book.
(ii) Indian standards are used throughout the book for materials, tolerances, screw threads, springs,
gears, wire ropes and pressure vessels.
(iii) When the machine component is to be selected from the manufacturer’s catalogue, the basic
procedure for its selection is discussed with a particular reference to Indian products.
Each chapter is written in a simple and logical way, explaining the theoretical considerations in
design of machine elements. Numerous solved problems are given to clarify and amplify the theoretical
principles.
Suggestions and comments for the improvement of the book will be appreciated. V B BHANDARI |
2007
Tata McGraw-Hill