Glossary

The PRINTING United Alliance Glossary serves as an excellent industry terminology resource. It is the language by which we all communicate. Without it, universal understanding would be impossible.

To keep our constituents well informed about changes to the increasingly complex industry terminology, PRINTING United Alliance has developed this glossary of terms. Definitions are for general reference only. Usage may vary between companies, individuals, or national and country customs. The information presented is as accurate as the authors and editors can ascertain and PRINTING United Alliance assumes no responsibility for the use of information presented herein.
  • American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
    A standards setting agency of the United States that approves design and performance of electrical/electronic components (USA), formerly the American Standard Association.
  • ANSI
    Acronym for American National Standards Institute; formerly the American Standard Association.
  • Coefficient of thermal expansion - linear
    (1) The fractional part of its length that a material elongates when raised one degree Celsius in temperature; (2) Fractional change in length or volume of a material divided by the change in temperature.
  • Expansion
    An overall increase in the dimensions of a substrate.
  • Expansion factor
    Correction factor for the change in density between two pressure measurement areas in a constricted flow.
  • Glass transition temperature (Tg)
    Midpoint of the temperature range over which a material undergoes a phase change from brittle to rubbery or vice versa.
  • Thermal expansion
    An increase in size due to an increase in temperature expressed in units of an increase in length or increase in size per degree such as inches/inch/degree C.
  • Transistor
    A solid state active device made of semi-conductor material such as silicon or germanium, used to control, amplify, or boost electrical current.