A manifold is a wide and/or bigger pipe, or channel, into which smaller pipes or channels lead.
Types of manifolds in engineering include:
Exhaust manifold, an engine part which collects the exhaust gases from multiple cylinders into one pipeHydraulic manifold, a component used to regulate fluid flow in a hydraulic system, thus controlling the transfer of power between actuators and pumpsInlet manifold or "intake manifold", an engine part which supplies the air or fuel/air mixture to the cylindersManifold (scuba), in a scuba set, connects two or more diving cylindersVacuum gas manifold, an apparatus used in chemistry to manipulate gasesMany dredge pipe piecesIn biology manifolds are found in:
Cardiovascular system - blood vessel manifolds etc.Lymphatic systemRespiratory systemManifolds are used in:
Pipe organ
