Bauteilmasse

Bauteilmasse, in engineering contexts, refers to the mass of a component, typically expressed in kilograms. It is a fundamental physical property used for weight budgeting, structural analysis, and dynamic modelling. In German-language technical practice, Bauteilmasse is distinguished from weight, which is the gravitational force acting on the mass.

Measurement and calculation: Mass can be determined by direct weighing with a balance or scale, or computed from known volume and material density (mass = density × volume). Modern computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) tools can provide mass properties for a designed part based on the assigned material and geometry.

Significance: The component mass influences the center of gravity, inertia, and vibration response, as well as energy requirements for acceleration and deceleration. It affects packaging, mounting, thermal mass, and overall efficiency in applications such as automotive, aerospace, and machinery. Mass is a key factor in safety, handling, and transport considerations.

Tolerances and data management: Mass values are subject to manufacturing tolerances. In product documentation and data management systems, Bauteilmasse is recorded in part lists (BOMs) with nominal values and allowable deviations. It is important to differentiate mass from weight, since mass remains constant while weight varies with gravity.

Applications and strategies: Designers seek to optimize Bauteilmasse to meet strength and stiffness criteria while reducing mass where possible, using lightweighting, alternative materials, or topology optimization.