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“T-head” refers to two different things depending on the context:
- Cylinder Head Design: In the context of internal combustion engines, particularly older engines, a T-head design refers to a cylinder head configuration where the valves are either adjacent and parallel or installed on opposite sides of the piston. This configuration resembles the letter “T” when viewed from above. T-head engines were common in early automotive designs and were characterized by their simplicity and reliability. However, they were eventually replaced by more efficient overhead valve (OHV) or overhead cam (OHC) designs.
- Screw or Bolt Head Shape: In the context of fasteners, a T-head refers to a type of screw or bolt head that is shaped like the letter “T” when viewed from the side. These heads typically have a flat, wide top with a cylindrical shank extending downward. T-head screws or bolts are often used in applications where a flush surface is desired, as the wide head distributes the load over a larger area.
These two meanings are distinct but both refer to the characteristic shape of the letter “T” when describing either a cylinder head configuration or a fastener head.
See
- T-head engine
- Engine type
- Crossflow head