Piston

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A piston is a crucial component that drives various types of reciprocating engines, pumps, gas compressors, and pneumatic cylinders. It's the primary moving part housed within a cylinder and sealed tightly with piston rings to prevent gas leaks. Inside an engine, its main function is to transfer energy from expanding gases in the cylinder to the crankshaft through a piston rod or connecting rod. Conversely, in a pump, this mechanism reverses force flow, transferring power from the crankshaft to the piston to compress or expel fluids within the cylinder. Some engines also utilize pistons as valves, regulating airflow by covering and uncovering ports within the cylinder.