tappet

American  

[tap-it] / ˈtæp ɪt /

noun

Machinery.

1. a sliding rod, intermittently struck by a cam, for moving another part, as a valve.

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tappet British  

/ ˈtæpɪt /

noun

1. a mechanical part that reciprocates to receive or transmit intermittent motion, esp the part of an internal-combustion engine that transmits motion from the camshaft to the push rods or valves

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Etymology

Origin of tappet

First recorded in 1735–45; tap ¹ + -et

Example Sentences

The upper position of the pawls, h, is limited by the direct resting of the levers, m, on the tappet, o, and the lower position by the resting of the pawls, n.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 315, January 14, 1882 by Various

At the same time, the tappet, 3, by moving the arm, s, downward, opens the steam-valve, e, and the exhaust-valve, c.

From A History of the Growth of the Steam-Engine by Thurston, Robert H.

A. Of two main valves, actuated by tappet rods which enter into the hollow piston rods, and are moved by tappet plates, which are fastened to the steam piston heads.

From The Traveling Engineers' Association To Improve The Locomotive Engine Service of American Railroads by Anonymous

This position is maintained by the resting of the pawls, n, upon the tappet, o, until the lowering of the corresponding plate has set the pawl, n, free.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 315, January 14, 1882 by Various

Each faller is provided with a tappet or wooden peg driven in at one side, which engages with the teeth or “wipers” of the revolving shaft in the front of the machine.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 10, Slice 3 "Fenton, Edward" to "Finistere" by Various