What does 'overhang' generally affect in mechanical assemblies?

In mechanical assemblies, 'overhang' primarily impacts component design and stability. Overhang refers to a situation where a component extends beyond its supporting structures or the dimensions of adjacent components. This can lead to increased leverage forces acting on the overhanging part, which can compromise the stability of the assembly under loads or vibrations.

When an overhang is present, particularly in rotating systems or structures subject to dynamic loading, it's crucial for the design to account for potential bending moments and deflections that may arise. The stability of the assembly can be affected due to the shift in the center of gravity or the introduction of additional stress on connected components. To ensure reliable operation, designers must carefully evaluate how overhang affects the overall integrity and performance of the system, leading to engineering decisions that mitigate risks associated with instability.

While the other options are relevant to mechanical assemblies, they do not directly address the specific implications of overhang as clearly as component design and stability do. Performance reliability and power output may be influenced indirectly, but they are not the primary concerns when considering the effects of overhang. Similarly, temperature management typically relates to heat dissipation rather than structural considerations.