What does a numerical rating mean? Mechanical equipment or device

In summary, "rating" for a mechanical appliance or device refers to a predicted number of times a certain operation or movement can be performed before the piece fails. This rating is often based on advanced testing or calculations and should be treated as a guarantee of performance. It is important to note that exceeding the rating may void warranties or guarantees. Examples of this rating can be seen in the automotive industry and is often used to determine the life expectancy or expected number of uses for a specific piece of equipment.
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symbolipoint
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TL;DR Summary
What exactly does "Rating" mean for a piece of equipment or mechanical device?
A certain mechanical appliance or device is given a rating that says, a certain operation or a certain movement can be performed some specified thousand times. What does the rating really mean? Was that movement or operation performed until the piece failed? Does it mean some advanced test was made in an abbreviated or accelerated fashion, and an estimate or prediction was made to give the number of times as a rating? Should the person receiving the information on a rating include some range up or down from the rating?
 
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symbolipoint said:
TL;DR Summary: What exactly does "Rating" mean for a piece of equipment or mechanical device?

Was that movement or operation performed until the piece failed?
I've actually watched equipment do this. Not necessarily to complete failure but X cycles until a certain amount of wear or damage has occurred. This particular case was a cable assembly used in lab-type test equipment. Sorry I can't tell you the number of cycles.
 
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I look at the nameplate rating as primarily a legal thing. It is the standard of performance that the nameplate warrants. Exceeding the nameplate rating voids all guarantees and warranties of performance.

How the manufacturer set the numbers on the nameplate can not be determined in the general case. They may or may not be tied to factual evidence.
 
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Something about the meaning, as indicated in one of the links says, "life expectancy" or "expected number of uses". That is likely as good as I will find. Just a prediction based on some testing or based on some kind of model.

Still very very general, if a spring has a rating of 1600 cycles, this is a prediction that it can be stretched & released OR squished & released 1600 times to still work at its best.

That seems to be just what "rating" means.
 

What does a numerical rating mean for mechanical equipment or devices?

A numerical rating for mechanical equipment or devices typically refers to a standardized system used to evaluate the performance, quality, or safety of the equipment. It is often represented by a number or letter grade, and can indicate various factors such as efficiency, durability, or compliance with industry standards.

How is a numerical rating determined for mechanical equipment or devices?

Numerical ratings for mechanical equipment or devices are typically determined through testing and evaluation by experts in the field. These experts use specific criteria and guidelines to assess the equipment's performance and assign a numerical value based on their findings. The rating may also take into account factors such as user feedback, maintenance records, and industry regulations.

What is a good numerical rating for mechanical equipment or devices?

The definition of a "good" numerical rating for mechanical equipment or devices can vary depending on the specific industry or application. In general, a higher numerical rating indicates better performance or quality. However, it is important to consider the specific needs and requirements of the equipment's intended use when determining what constitutes a good rating.

How can a numerical rating be used to compare different mechanical equipment or devices?

Numerical ratings can be useful for comparing different mechanical equipment or devices as they provide a standardized measure of performance and quality. By looking at the numerical ratings of different equipment, one can determine which may be more efficient, reliable, or compliant with industry standards. However, it is important to consider other factors such as cost, maintenance, and specific needs when making comparisons.

Can a numerical rating be used as the sole factor in determining the quality of mechanical equipment or devices?

No, a numerical rating should not be the sole factor in determining the quality of mechanical equipment or devices. While it can provide valuable information, it is important to also consider other factors such as user reviews, maintenance records, and industry standards. Additionally, the intended use and specific needs of the equipment should also be taken into account when evaluating its quality.

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