The catastrophic failure condition where moving parts jam and refuse to rotate or slide. This usually happens when lubrication fails, causing metal-to-metal friction that generates enough heat to weld the components together. It can also occur if a foreign object wedges into a gear train or clearance space.
Heard on the job
If you run that pump dry for more than a minute, the ceramic seals will overheat and lock up the shaft.
Also heard as
- seize
- bind
Related terms
Bearing
A machine element that constrains relative motion to a desired direction and reduces friction between moving parts.
Clutch
A mechanical device that engages and disengages power transmission between a driving shaft and a driven shaft.
Overhaul
To completely disassemble, inspect, repair, and rebuild a machine to restore it to working condition.