Mechanical Engineering Interview Questions and Answers

1. What is mechanical engineering?

Mechanical engineering is a versatile branch of engineering that applies the principles of
physics, mathematics, and materials science to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain
mechanical systems. This field encompasses a wide range of activities, from developing small
components like micro-sensors to creating large systems like spacecraft. Mechanical
engineers play a crucial role in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, energy,
and manufacturing, working to improve efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in
mechanical processes and products.

2. What are the main laws of thermodynamics?

The main laws of thermodynamics are fundamental principles that describe how energy is
transferred and transformed in physical systems. The Zeroth Law states that if two systems
are in thermal equilibrium with a third system, they are in thermal equilibrium with each
other, establishing the concept of temperature.

The First Law (Law of Energy Conservation) asserts that energy cannot be created or
destroyed, only converted from one form to another. The Second Law states that the
entropy, or disorder, of an isolated system always increases over time, indicating that energy
conversions are never 100% efficient. Finally, the Third Law states that as a system
approaches absolute zero, the entropy approaches a minimum value, implying that it
becomes impossible to reach absolute zero.

3. What is stress?
Stress is the internal resistance or counterforce a material generates in response to an
applied external force or load. It is quantified as force per unit area and helps determine
how a material will react under various loading conditions. Stress is crucial in engineering
and materials science, as it helps predict the structural integrity and failure points of
materials under different forces.

4. What is strain?
Strain is the measure of deformation an object experiences due to an applied force,
expressed as the ratio of change in dimension to the original dimension. Unlike stress, which
deals with forces, strain focuses on the extent to which the material stretches, compresses,
or deforms. This concept is essential for understanding how materials behave under
different loading conditions, such as tension, compression, and shear.
5. What is Young's Modulus?
Young's Modulus, or the elastic modulus, measures a material's stiffness or resistance to
elastic deformation under load. It is defined as the ratio of stress (force per unit area) to
strain (proportional deformation) in the linear portion of the stress-strain curve. High
Young's Modulus indicates a stiffer material that deforms less under a given load, essential
for selecting materials in construction and manufacturing.

6. What is the difference between tensile strength and yield strength?

Tensile strength and yield strength are both critical properties of materials, but they indicate
different performance aspects. Tensile strength is the maximum stress a material can
withstand while being stretched or pulled before breaking. Yield strength is the stress at
which a material begins to deform plastically, meaning it won't return to its original shape
once the load is removed. Yield strength is crucial for determining a material's ability to
withstand permanent deformation, while tensile strength indicates the ultimate load-
bearing capacity before failure.

7. What is fatigue in materials?

Fatigue in materials refers to the progressive and localized structural damage that occurs
when a material is subjected to cyclic loading or repeated stress over time. Even if the
stresses are below the material's yield strength, they can cause microscopic cracks to form
and propagate, eventually leading to failure. Fatigue is a critical consideration in the design
of components subjected to fluctuating forces, such as bridges, aircraft, and machinery, to
ensure long-term durability and safety.

8. What is the difference between heat and temperature?

Heat and temperature are related but distinct concepts. Heat is a form of energy that
transfers between systems or objects with different temperatures, moving from the hotter
to the cooler one. Temperature measures the average kinetic energy of particles in a
substance, indicating how hot or cold the substance is. In essence, heat is the energy in
transit due to temperature differences, while temperature is a measure of that energy
within a substance.

9. What is the working principle of a heat exchanger?

A heat exchanger operates on the principle of transferring thermal energy between two or
more fluids at different temperatures without mixing them. It typically involves a barrier that
allows heat to pass through while keeping the fluids separate. This process is essential in
various applications, such as heating, cooling, and power generation, enabling efficient
energy transfer and utilization in systems like radiators, boilers, and air conditioning units.

10. What is Reynolds number?

Reynolds number is a dimensionless quantity used to predict flow patterns in different fluid
flow situations. It is calculated as the ratio of inertial forces to viscous forces within a fluid
and helps determine whether the flow will be laminar or turbulent. Low Reynolds numbers
indicate laminar (smooth) flow, while high Reynolds numbers suggest turbulent (chaotic)
flow. This concept is vital in fluid dynamics for designing and analyzing systems like pipelines,
aircraft wings, and marine vessels.

11. What is cavitation?

Cavitation is the formation of vapor cavities or bubbles in a liquid that occur in areas of
relatively low pressure around an impeller or other moving components. These bubbles can
collapse violently, causing shock waves that can damage surfaces and reduce the efficiency
of pumps and propellers. Cavitation is a significant concern in hydraulic systems and marine
engineering, where it can lead to performance loss and material erosion.

12. What is the difference between laminar and turbulent flow?

Laminar and turbulent flows describe different fluid motion types. Laminar flow is smooth
and orderly, with fluid moving in parallel layers with minimal mixing. It typically occurs at low
velocities and Reynolds numbers. Turbulent flow, on the other hand, is chaotic and
unpredictable, with irregular fluctuations and eddies, occurring at high velocities and
Reynolds numbers. Understanding these flow regimes is crucial for designing efficient fluid
systems, such as pipelines and air ducts.

13. What is a gear ratio?

A gear ratio is the relationship between the number of teeth on two gears that are meshed
or two sprockets connected with a common chain. It determines the mechanical advantage
and speed ratio between the gears. For instance, a higher gear ratio means more torque but
less speed, while a lower gear ratio provides more speed but less torque. Gear ratios are
fundamental in designing transmissions, machinery, and any system requiring controlled
movement and force.

14. What is the function of a flywheel?

A flywheel is a mechanical device used to store rotational energy and smooth out
fluctuations in engine speed. It maintains a consistent angular velocity by resisting changes
in rotational speed, thus ensuring stable operation of engines and machinery. Flywheels are
essential in various applications, from automotive engines to power plants, where they help
balance energy output and improve efficiency.

15. What is the working principle of a hydraulic system?

Hydraulic systems operate on Pascal's principle, which states that pressure applied to a
confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions. These systems use incompressible
fluids to transmit power, enabling the movement and control of machinery. Hydraulics are
widely used in industrial and mobile applications, such as construction equipment,
manufacturing machinery, and aircraft systems, due to their ability to provide high force and
precise control.

16. What is a PID controller?

A PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller is a control loop feedback mechanism
widely used in industrial control systems to maintain the desired output with minimal error.
It adjusts the control inputs based on three parameters: proportional (P), which responds to
current error; integral (I), which accounts for past errors; and derivative (D), which predicts
future errors. PID controllers are essential for precise control in processes like temperature
regulation, speed control, and robotics.

17. What is the difference between accuracy and precision?

Accuracy and precision are two distinct concepts in measurement. Accuracy refers to how
close a measurement is to the true or accepted value. In contrast, precision describes the
consistency or repeatability of measurements when repeated under unchanged conditions.
A measurement can be precise without being accurate and vice versa. Both concepts are
crucial for quality control and reliability in scientific experiments and engineering
applications.

18. What is the purpose of a thermostat?

A thermostat is a device used to maintain a desired temperature by regulating heating and
cooling systems. It monitors the ambient temperature and switches heating or cooling
devices on or off to keep the environment within a set range. Thermostats are commonly
found in home HVAC systems, refrigerators, and industrial processes, ensuring comfort,
safety, and energy efficiency.
19. What is the working principle of a four-stroke engine?
A four-stroke engine completes four separate strokes—intake, compression, power, and
exhaust—in a single thermodynamic cycle. During the intake stroke, the air-fuel mixture is
drawn into the cylinder. In the compression stroke, the mixture is compressed. The power
stroke ignites the compressed mixture, producing the force that drives the piston. Finally,
the exhaust stroke expels the burnt gases. This cycle is fundamental in internal combustion
engines, providing efficient power generation for vehicles and machinery.

20. What is the difference between welding, soldering, and brazing?

Welding, soldering, and brazing are processes used to join metals, but they differ in methods
and applications. Welding involves melting the base materials to create a strong joint.
Soldering joins metals using a filler metal with a lower melting point than the workpieces,
typically used in electronics and plumbing. Brazing is similar to soldering but uses higher
temperatures and a stronger joint, often employed in HVAC and automotive industries. Each
technique has its specific use cases based on the required strength and thermal
characteristics.

21. What is thermal conductivity?

Thermal conductivity is a material's property to conduct heat, measured in watts per meter-
kelvin (W/(m·K)). It indicates how efficiently heat can be transferred through a material. High
thermal conductivity materials, like metals, transfer heat quickly and are used in applications
like heat exchangers and cookware. Low thermal conductivity materials, like insulators, slow
down heat transfer and are used for thermal insulation.

22. What is the purpose of a catalytic converter?

A catalytic converter reduces toxic gases and pollutants in exhaust gas from an internal
combustion engine into less-toxic pollutants. It uses catalysts, typically platinum, palladium,
and rhodium, to facilitate chemical reactions that convert harmful substances like carbon
monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen.
Catalytic converters are crucial for reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality.

23. What is the difference between conduction, convection, and radiation?

Conduction, convection, and radiation are the three modes of heat transfer. Conduction is
the transfer of heat through direct contact between molecules, typically occurring in solids.
Convection involves heat transfer by the movement of fluids (liquids or gases), driven by
temperature differences within the fluid. Radiation is the transfer of heat through
electromagnetic waves, such as infrared radiation, and does not require a medium.
Understanding these modes is essential for designing efficient thermal systems in
engineering.

24. What is torque?

Torque is a measure of the rotational force applied to an object, typically measured in
Newton-meters (Nm). It is the product of force and the distance from the pivot point where
the force is applied. Torque is crucial in mechanical systems, determining the effectiveness of
engines, motors, and other rotational devices. Higher torque means more rotational power,
essential for tasks like driving vehicles, operating machinery, and turning bolts.

25. What is the purpose of a timing belt in an engine?

A timing belt synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft in an internal
combustion engine, ensuring the proper timing of the opening and closing of the engine's
valves. This synchronization is crucial for the engine's efficiency, performance, and longevity,
preventing valve interference with the pistons and ensuring optimal combustion.

26. What is the working principle of a centrifugal pump?

A centrifugal pump uses rotational energy from an impeller to create flow by converting
kinetic energy into hydrodynamic energy. As the impeller rotates, it accelerates the fluid
outward, increasing its velocity. This velocity is then converted into pressure energy in the
pump casing, allowing the fluid to be transported through the system. Centrifugal pumps are
widely used in various applications, including water supply, irrigation, and industrial
processes, due to their efficiency and reliability.

27. What is the difference between force and pressure?

Force and pressure are related but distinct concepts. Force is a push or pull acting on an
object, measured in Newtons (N). Pressure is the amount of force exerted per unit area,
measured in Pascals (Pa). Essentially, pressure is force distributed over a surface. For
example, pressing a finger against a wall applies force, but the pressure depends on the area
of the fingertip in contact with the wall.

28. What is the purpose of a heat sink?

A heat sink is a passive heat exchanger that transfers heat from a hot device to a fluid
medium, usually air or liquid, to prevent overheating. It increases the surface area in contact
with the cooling medium, allowing more efficient heat dissipation. Heat sinks are essential in
electronic devices, like computers and power supplies, ensuring stable operation by
managing thermal loads.

29. What is the working principle of a refrigerator?

A refrigerator operates on the principle of evaporation. It removes heat from an enclosed
space by evaporating and condensing a refrigerant in a closed system. The refrigerant
absorbs heat from the inside as it evaporates, then releases it outside as it condenses,
maintaining a cool internal temperature. This cycle is powered by a compressor and
regulated by expansion valves, essential for preserving food and other perishables.

30. What is viscosity?

Viscosity measures a fluid's resistance to flow. It indicates how thick or thin a fluid is and
how easily it can be deformed. High-viscosity fluids, like honey, flow slowly and resist
deformation, while low-viscosity fluids, like water, flow quickly and easily. Viscosity is crucial
in various applications, from lubrication in engines to the flow of liquids in pipelines.

31. What is the difference between static and dynamic balancing?

Static and dynamic balancing address different aspects of rotational stability. Static balancing
corrects unbalanced forces in a stationary object to ensure even weight distribution.
Dynamic balancing, on the other hand, addresses unbalanced forces and moments in a
rotating object to prevent vibrations and wobbling during operation. Both types of balancing
are essential in rotating machinery, such as fans, wheels, and turbines, to ensure smooth
and efficient operation.

32. What is the purpose of a governor in an engine?

A governor regulates the speed of an engine by controlling the fuel supply, ensuring
consistent performance under varying loads. It maintains the desired speed by adjusting the
throttle based on the engine's operating conditions. Governors are crucial in applications like
generators, turbines, and automotive engines, where stable speed is essential for efficiency
and safety.

33. What is the working principle of a steam turbine?

A steam turbine extracts thermal energy from pressurized steam and converts it into
mechanical energy through rotary motion. The steam flows through the turbine's blades,
causing them to spin and drive a shaft connected to a generator or other machinery. Steam
turbines are widely used in power plants and industrial processes, providing efficient and
reliable energy conversion.

34. What is the difference between stress concentration and fatigue?

Stress concentration and fatigue are related but distinct concepts in material science. Stress
concentration refers to the localization of high stresses around geometric discontinuities, like
holes, notches, or sharp corners, which can lead to material failure. Fatigue is the weakening
of a material caused by repeated cyclic loading, leading to the formation and growth of
cracks over time. Both phenomena are critical considerations in engineering design to
ensure the durability and reliability of structures and components.

35. What is the purpose of fins on a heat exchanger?

Fins on a heat exchanger increase the surface area for heat transfer, improving the efficiency
of the heat exchange process. By providing more contact area between the fluid and the
solid surface, fins enhance the rate of heat transfer, allowing more effective cooling or
heating. This is essential in applications like radiators, air conditioning units, and industrial
heat exchangers, where efficient thermal management is crucial.

36. What is the working principle of a pneumatic system?

Pneumatic systems use compressed air to transmit and control energy for mechanical work.
They operate based on the principles of fluid dynamics and use components like
compressors, valves, actuators, and pipelines. Pneumatic systems are widely used in
industrial automation, manufacturing, and transportation due to their simplicity, reliability,
and ability to generate high force with precise control.

37. What is the difference between a bolt and a screw?

Bolts and screws are both fasteners, but they differ in application and design. Bolts typically
require a nut to secure them in place and are used for joining materials through pre-drilled
holes. Screws, on the other hand, are usually driven directly into materials, creating their
threads as they are installed. Bolts provide stronger joints for heavy-duty applications, while
screws are used for lighter tasks and easier assembly.

38. What is the purpose of a cam?

A cam converts rotary motion into reciprocating or linear motion. It is a crucial component in
various mechanical systems, such as engines and machinery, where precise timing and
movement are required. Cams are used in automotive engines to operate valves, in textile
machinery to control needles, and in automated systems to achieve specific movement
patterns.

39. What is the working principle of a diesel engine?

A diesel engine operates on the principle of compression ignition. It compresses air to a high
temperature and pressure, then injects fuel into the compressed air, causing it to ignite
spontaneously. This combustion generates a high-pressure force that drives the piston,
converting chemical energy into mechanical energy. Diesel engines are known for their
efficiency, durability, and high torque, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications like
trucks, buses, and industrial machinery.

40. What is the difference between elastic and plastic deformation?

Elastic and plastic deformation describe how materials respond to applied forces. Elastic
deformation is reversible; the material returns to its original shape once the force is
removed. Plastic deformation, however, is permanent; the material does not return to its
original shape after the force is removed. Understanding these behaviors is crucial in
material science and engineering, influencing the design and selection of materials for
various applications.

41. What is the purpose of a shock absorber?

A shock absorber dampens spring oscillations by converting kinetic energy into heat energy,
providing a smoother ride and improved handling in vehicles. It reduces the impact of
sudden shocks and vibrations, ensuring stability and comfort. Shock absorbers are essential
components in automotive suspension systems, helping to maintain tire contact with the
road and enhancing vehicle safety and performance.

42. What is the working principle of a gas turbine?

A gas turbine extracts energy from a flow of combustion gases and converts it into
mechanical energy through rotary motion. It operates on the Brayton cycle, where air is
compressed, mixed with fuel, and ignited. The high-temperature, high-pressure combustion
gases expand through turbine blades, causing them to spin and drive a generator or other
machinery. Gas turbines are widely used in power generation, aviation, and industrial
applications for their efficiency and power output.

43. What is the difference between a compressor and a pump?

Compressors and pumps both move fluids, but they differ in the type of fluid they handle
and their purpose. Compressors increase the pressure of gases by reducing their volume,
commonly used in applications like air conditioning, refrigeration, and pneumatic systems.
Pumps, on the other hand, move liquids by adding energy to the fluid, increasing its pressure
or flow rate, used in applications like water supply, irrigation, and hydraulic systems.

44. What is the purpose of a clutch?

A clutch engages and disengages power transmission between the driving and driven shafts
in a mechanical system. It allows for controlled power delivery, enabling smooth starts and
stops, gear changes, and protection against overloads. Clutches are essential in automotive
transmissions, machinery, and various industrial applications, providing control and flexibility
in power management.

45. What is the working principle of a hydraulic brake?

Hydraulic brakes use fluid pressure to multiply force from the brake pedal to the brake pads.
When the pedal is pressed, it forces brake fluid through a system of hoses and pistons,
applying pressure to the brake pads and causing them to clamp onto the brake rotor. This
process converts kinetic energy into heat, slowing down or stopping the vehicle. Hydraulic
brakes provide consistent and reliable braking performance, widely used in automotive and
industrial applications.

46. What is the difference between a spring and a damper?

A spring and a damper serve different functions in mechanical systems. A spring stores
energy by compressing or extending and releases it to return to its original shape, providing
elasticity. A damper, on the other hand, dissipates energy by converting kinetic energy into
heat, providing resistance to motion. Springs are used for shock absorption and load
support, while dampers control oscillations and vibrations, often working together in
suspension systems.

47. What is the purpose of a pressure relief valve?

A pressure relief valve limits the pressure in a system by allowing pressurized fluid to flow
out when the pressure exceeds a set limit. This prevents equipment damage and ensures
safety by maintaining pressure within acceptable limits. Pressure relief valves are used in
various applications, including boilers, pressure vessels, and hydraulic systems, to protect
against overpressure conditions.

48. What is the working principle of a wind turbine?

A wind turbine converts the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy. The wind turns the
turbine blades, which spin a rotor connected to a generator. The generator then converts the
rotational energy into electrical energy, which can be used or stored. Wind turbines are a
renewable energy source, providing clean and sustainable power for various applications.

49. What is the difference between a spur gear and a helical gear?
Spur and helical gears are both types of gears used to transmit power between shafts, but
they differ in design and performance. Spur gears have straight teeth parallel to the axis of
rotation, resulting in simpler design and ease of manufacture but noisier operation at high
speeds. Helical gears, on the other hand, have angled teeth, which engage gradually,
providing smoother and quieter operation. Helical gears are often used in high-speed
applications where noise reduction and efficiency are critical.

50. What is the purpose of a crankshaft?

A crankshaft converts reciprocating motion from the engine's pistons into rotational motion,
driving the vehicle's wheels or other machinery. It is a crucial component in internal
combustion engines, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery. The crankshaft's design
and balance are essential for engine performance and longevity, influencing factors like
vibration, wear, and fuel efficiency.

51. What is the working principle of a solar panel?

A solar panel converts light energy into electrical energy using the photovoltaic effect. When
sunlight hits the panel's surface, it excites electrons in the semiconductor material, creating
an electric current. This current is then captured and converted into usable electrical power.
Solar panels are a renewable energy source, providing clean and sustainable electricity for
residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

52. What is the difference between a manual and an automatic transmission?

Manual and automatic transmissions both enable gear changes in vehicles, but they operate
differently. Manual transmissions require the driver to manually engage and disengage gears
using a clutch pedal and gear stick, providing greater control and often better fuel efficiency.
Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, automatically change gears based on driving
conditions, offering convenience and ease of use but potentially less control and slightly
lower fuel efficiency.

53. What is the purpose of a differential in a vehicle?

A differential allows the wheels of a vehicle to rotate at different speeds while maintaining
power to both. This is essential when turning, as the outer wheel travels a greater distance
than the inner wheel. The differential ensures smooth and stable handling, reducing tire
wear and improving traction. It is a critical component in the drivetrain of rear-wheel-drive,
front-wheel-drive, and all-wheel-drive vehicles.

54. What is the working principle of a fuel cell?

A fuel cell converts chemical energy from fuel into electricity through an electrochemical
reaction. It typically uses hydrogen as fuel, which reacts with oxygen from the air to produce
electricity, water, and heat. Fuel cells are efficient and environmentally friendly, used in
various applications, including vehicles, portable power systems, and stationary power
generation, providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels.

55. What is the difference between a positive displacement pump and a centrifugal pump?
Positive displacement and centrifugal pumps both move fluids, but they operate on different
principles. Positive displacement pumps move a fixed amount of fluid per cycle, providing
consistent flow regardless of pressure variations, making them suitable for high-pressure
applications. Centrifugal pumps, on the other hand, use rotational energy to increase fluid
velocity, converting it into pressure energy, ideal for low-pressure, high-flow applications.
Each type has its advantages and is chosen based on specific application requirements.

56. What is the purpose of a muffler?

A muffler reduces noise from an engine's exhaust system by using sound-absorbing
materials and chambers to dissipate sound waves. It also helps in controlling emissions and
improving engine performance by reducing backpressure. Mufflers are essential components
in vehicles, ensuring compliance with noise regulations and enhancing the driving
experience.

57. What is the working principle of a 3D printer?

A 3D printer creates three-dimensional objects by depositing materials layer by layer, based
on a digital model. It uses various technologies, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM),
stereolithography (SLA), and selective laser sintering (SLS), to build objects from materials
like plastics, resins, and metals. 3D printing is used in manufacturing, prototyping, and
custom fabrication, providing flexibility and precision in creating complex geometries.

58. What is the difference between a turbine and a compressor?

Turbines and compressors are both used in fluid systems but serve opposite functions.
Turbines extract energy from a fluid, converting it into mechanical energy, commonly used in
power generation and propulsion systems. Compressors, on the other hand, add energy to a
fluid, increasing its pressure, used in applications like air conditioning, refrigeration, and gas
pipelines. Both are essential in various engineering applications, providing efficient energy
conversion and fluid management.

59. What is the purpose of a heat pipe?

A heat pipe is a heat transfer device that combines thermal conductivity and phase
transition to efficiently transfer heat. It uses a working fluid that evaporates and condenses
within a sealed tube, moving heat from the hot end to the cool end. Heat pipes are used in
electronics cooling, HVAC systems, and industrial processes, providing effective thermal
management in compact and lightweight designs.

60. What is the working principle of a vortex tube?

A vortex tube uses compressed gas to generate hot and cold air streams simultaneously. The
compressed gas enters the tube and creates a vortex, separating into a hot outer stream and
a cold inner stream due to centrifugal forces. The hot and cold air can be used for various
applications, such as spot cooling, heating, and refrigeration, providing a simple and reliable
method of temperature control without moving parts.

61. What is the difference between a bearing and a bushing?

Bearings and bushings are used to reduce friction between moving parts, but they differ in
design and function. Bearings use rolling elements, such as balls or rollers, to minimize
friction and support rotational motion, providing high precision and load capacity. Bushings,
on the other hand, rely on sliding contact between surfaces, offering simpler construction
and lower cost but with higher friction and wear. Both are essential components in
mechanical systems, chosen based on application requirements.

62. What is the purpose of a dynamometer?

A dynamometer measures force, torque, or power, typically used in testing and
development of engines, motors, and other mechanical devices. It provides accurate and
reliable data on performance characteristics, helping engineers optimize designs and ensure
compliance with specifications. Dynamometers are essential tools in automotive, aerospace,
and industrial applications, supporting research, development, and quality control.

63. What is the working principle of a thermoelectric cooler?

A thermoelectric cooler uses the Peltier effect to create a heat flux between two different
types of materials. When an electric current passes through the junction of these materials,
heat is absorbed on one side and released on the other, creating a cooling effect.
Thermoelectric coolers are used in various applications, such as electronics cooling, portable
refrigeration, and temperature control systems, providing compact and reliable cooling
solutions.

64. What is the difference between a DC motor and an AC motor?

DC and AC motors both convert electrical energy into mechanical energy but operate on
different principles. DC motors use direct current and have commutators and brushes to
control the direction of the current, providing precise speed and torque control. AC motors,
on the other hand, use alternating current and rely on electromagnetic induction to
generate motion, offering simpler construction and lower maintenance. Each type has its
advantages and is chosen based on application requirements.

65. What is the purpose of a surge tank?

A surge tank absorbs sudden changes in pressure in fluid systems, preventing pressure
surges and ensuring stable operation. It acts as a buffer, allowing fluid to flow in or out as
needed to maintain consistent pressure. Surge tanks are used in various applications, such as
water supply systems, hydraulic systems, and pipelines, protecting equipment and
enhancing system reliability.

66. What is the working principle of a gyroscope?

A gyroscope maintains orientation based on the principles of angular momentum. It consists
of a spinning rotor mounted on gimbals, allowing it to rotate freely in multiple directions.
The rotor's angular momentum resists changes in orientation, providing stability and precise
measurement of angular motion. Gyroscopes are used in navigation, aerospace, and
electronic devices, providing accurate and reliable control and measurement of orientation
and motion.

67. What is the difference between a prismatic joint and a revolute joint?
Prismatic and revolute joints are types of mechanical joints used in robotics and machinery.
A prismatic joint allows linear motion along a single axis, providing translational movement.
A revolute joint, on the other hand, allows rotational motion around a single axis, providing
rotational movement. Both types of joints are essential in designing mechanisms and robotic
systems, offering flexibility and control in motion and positioning.
68. What is the purpose of a draft tube in a hydraulic turbine?
A draft tube in a hydraulic turbine recovers kinetic energy from the exiting water, converting
it into pressure energy and increasing the turbine's efficiency. It also directs the flow of
water away from the turbine, reducing turbulence and ensuring smooth operation. Draft
tubes are essential components in hydroelectric power plants, enhancing energy conversion
and overall performance.

69. What is the working principle of a strain gauge?

A strain gauge measures deformation or strain in a material by converting mechanical
deformation into a change in electrical resistance. It consists of a thin, conductive foil
pattern bonded to the material. When the material deforms, the foil's shape changes,
altering its electrical resistance. This change is measured and correlated to the amount of
strain. Strain gauges are used in various applications, such as structural testing, load
measurement, and material research, providing accurate and reliable data on mechanical
properties.

70. What is the difference between a capacitor and a battery?

Capacitors and batteries are both energy storage devices, but they operate on different
principles. Capacitors store energy in an electric field created by separated charges,
providing quick discharge and charge cycles, ideal for applications requiring rapid energy
delivery. Batteries, on the other hand, store energy in chemical form and release it through
electrochemical reactions, providing longer-term energy storage and slower discharge rates,
suitable for sustained power supply. Both are essential in electronic and electrical systems,
chosen based on specific energy storage needs.

71. What is the purpose of a flywheel?

A flywheel stores rotational energy and provides stability and smoothness in mechanical
systems by maintaining consistent angular velocity. It absorbs energy when the input is
higher than the output and releases it when the input is lower, reducing fluctuations and
enhancing performance. Flywheels are used in various applications, such as engines, power
systems, and industrial machinery, providing energy storage and improving efficiency.

72. What is the working principle of a piezoelectric sensor?

A piezoelectric sensor converts mechanical pressure or strain into an electrical signal using
the piezoelectric effect. When a piezoelectric material is subjected to mechanical stress, it
generates an electric charge proportional to the applied force. This charge is then measured
and converted into a voltage signal. Piezoelectric sensors are used in various applications,
such as pressure measurement, vibration monitoring, and acoustic sensing, providing high
sensitivity and fast response.

73. What is the difference between a synchronous and an asynchronous motor?

Synchronous and asynchronous motors both convert electrical energy into mechanical
energy but operate on different principles. Synchronous motors run at a constant speed
synchronized with the supply frequency, providing precise speed control, ideal for
applications requiring constant speed. Asynchronous motors, also known as induction
motors, run at a speed slightly less than the supply frequency, offering simpler construction
and lower cost, suitable for general-purpose applications. Each type has its advantages,
chosen based on specific performance requirements.

74. What is the purpose of a gear train?

A gear train transmits power and motion between rotating shafts, providing mechanical
advantage through gear ratios. It consists of multiple gears meshed together, allowing
control of speed, torque, and direction of motion. Gear trains are used in various
applications, such as automotive transmissions, machinery, and robotics, providing efficient
power transmission and precise motion control.

75. What is the working principle of an induction furnace?

An induction furnace heats and melts metal using electromagnetic induction. It generates an
alternating magnetic field through a coil, inducing eddy currents in the metal placed inside
the furnace. These currents produce heat due to the metal's resistance, causing it to melt.
Induction furnaces are used in metalworking, foundries, and recycling, providing efficient
and precise control of the heating process.

76. What is the difference between a hard and a soft magnetic material?
Hard and soft magnetic materials differ in their magnetic properties and applications. Hard
magnetic materials have high coercivity and retain their magnetization, making them
suitable for permanent magnets used in motors, generators, and magnetic storage. Soft
magnetic materials have low coercivity and can be easily magnetized and demagnetized,
ideal for applications requiring rapid and reversible magnetic changes, such as transformers,
inductors, and electromagnets. Each type is chosen based on specific magnetic performance
needs.

Conclusion
Preparing for a mechanical engineering interview can be a challenging however rewarding
process. This comprehensive article of 70+ interview questions and answers covers a wide
range of topics, from fundamental principles to advanced concepts and situational
questions.