Volute (disambiguation)
Encyclopedia
The term volute is used in a number of different contexts, all of which derive from and allude to the original Latin root word voluta ("scroll"):
- In architecture, a voluteVoluteA volute is a spiral scroll-like ornament that forms the basis of the Ionic order, found in the capital of the Ionic column. It was later incorporated into Corinthian order and Composite column capitals...
is a decorative element on columns. - In stairways, a volute is a handrail for a bullnose step that is shaped like a spiral.
- In biology, a volute is one of a number of species of marine snails in the family VolutidaeVolutidaeVolutidae, common name volutes, are a taxonomic family of predatory sea snails that range in size from 9 mm to over 500 mm, marine gastropod mollusks...
. - In engineering, a voluteVolute (pump)The volute of a centrifugal pump is the casing that receives the fluid being pumped by the impeller, slowing down the fluid's rate of flow. A volute is a curved funnel that increases in area as it approaches the discharge port. The volute converts kinetic energy into pressure by reducing speed...
is the casing in a centrifugal pumpCentrifugal pumpA centrifugal pump is a rotodynamic pump that uses a rotating impeller to create flow by the addition of energy to a fluid. Centrifugal pumps are commonly used to move liquids through piping...
, whose shape is somewhat similar to architectural volutes. - In engineering, a volute springSpring (device)A spring is an elastic object used to store mechanical energy. Springs are usually made out of spring steel. Small springs can be wound from pre-hardened stock, while larger ones are made from annealed steel and hardened after fabrication...
is a compression spring in the shape of a volute. - In pottery, a volute kraterKraterA krater was a large vase used to mix wine and water in Ancient Greece.-Form and function:...
is a type of Greek urn that takes its name from the form of the handles, which spiral into volutes.