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MEC 120
Term 2
3 credits

Mechanical Systems and Power Transmission

MEC 120 introduces students to the fundamental principles and practical applications of mechanical power transmission systems. The curriculum covers key components such as gears, various belt and chain drives, bearings, and couplings, detailing their construction, operational characteristics, and common failure modes. Emphasis is placed on proper installation techniques, including precision alignment, lubrication, and routine maintenance procedures critical for ensuring system efficiency and longevity. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on activities, learners will gain the necessary competencies to diagnose issues, perform corrective actions, and contribute to the reliable operation of industrial machinery. This course prepares individuals for entry-level technician roles involving the upkeep and service of diverse mechanical equipment.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Lesson 1: Introduction to Mechanical Systems and Power Transmissionlecture
02Lesson 2: Gears: Types, Terminology, and Principles of Operationlecture
03Lesson 3: Gear Drive System Inspection and Maintenancelecture
04Hands-on Lab: Gear System Disassembly, Inspection, and Reassemblylab
05Lesson 5: Belt Drives: V-belts, Synchronous Belts, and Flat Beltslecture
06Lesson 6: Belt Drive System Design Considerations and Maintenancelecture
07Lesson 7: Chain Drives: Types, Components, and Applicationslecture
08Hands-on Lab: Belt and Chain Drive System Installation and Tensioninglab
09Lesson 9: Bearings: Rolling Element and Plain Bearingslecture
10Lesson 10: Bearing Installation, Lubrication, and Failure Analysislecture
11Hands-on Lab: Bearing Removal, Inspection, and Installationlab
12Lesson 12: Couplings: Types, Selection, and Alignment Techniqueslecture
13Lesson 13: Precision Alignment Methods for Power Transmission Systemslecture
14Capstone Service Project: Troubleshooting and Repair of a Mechanical Power Transmission Systemassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Lesson 1: Introduction to Mechanical Systems and Power Transmission","Week 2: Lesson 2: Gears: Types, Terminology, and Principles of Operation","Week 3: Lesson 3: Gear Drive System Inspection and Maintenance","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Gear System Disassembly, Inspection, and Reassembly","Week 5: Lesson 5: Belt Drives: V-belts, Synchronous Belts, and Flat Belts","Week 6: Lesson 6: Belt Drive System Design Considerations and Maintenance","Week 7: Lesson 7: Chain Drives: Types, Components, and Applications","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: Belt and Chain Drive System Installation and Tensioning","Week 9: Lesson 9: Bearings: Rolling Element and Plain Bearings","Week 10: Lesson 10: Bearing Installation, Lubrication, and Failure Analysis","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Bearing Removal, Inspection, and Installation","Week 12: Lesson 12: Couplings: Types, Selection, and Alignment Techniques","Week 13: Lesson 13: Precision Alignment Methods for Power Transmission Systems","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Troubleshooting and Repair of a Mechanical Power Transmission System"]