Chapter K: K K.S Magnet Steel

k

Abbreviation for kilo- (10 ³), as in kilometer. Symbol for thermal conductivity.

K

(1) Symbol for the element potassium; it stands for the Latin kalium; (2) abbreviation for the Kelvin temperature scale; (3) symbol for computer memory, in approximate number of thousands (or 1,024) of bytes or words.

K.A.

An alloy of aluminum. Similar to Duralumin .

karat

Another name for carat as used in the United States to denote the fineness of gold.

See also carat.

Kelvin

The temperature scale used in certain engineering calculations such as the change in volume of a gas with temperature. Absolute temperatures are expressed either in degrees Kelvin, corresponding respectively to the centigrade and Fahrenheit scales. Temperatures in Kelvins are obtained by adding or subtracting 273 to the centigrade temperature depending if above or below 0 C.

kerf

The width of a cut produced during a cutting process, as the slot or passageway cut by a saw.

kerosene

Also kerosine. A clear, oily, liquid; a mixture of hydrocarbons. Used as a fuel, solvent, cleaner, and sometimes as a cutting fluid for cutting metals, threading and turning aluminum alloys. This flammable liquid must be stored in approved and properly labeled containers. Never use it near open flames, sparks, or temperatures above its flash point (about 100-150 F 37.7-65.5 C).

key

A small square, rectangular, or other shaped piece of metal which locks locked into both a keyway in a shaft and a slot in a gear or pulley. Once locked, the...