20+ Mechanical Engineering Interview Question & Answer (2024)
Explain how hydraulics work on a machine.
Hydraulics on a machine work by using an incompressible fluid to transmit force from one point to another. In most cases, this amplifies the force applied at one end for a given amount of effort.
What is a process flow diagram?
A process flow diagram (PFD) is a diagram commonly used in chemical and process engineering to illustrate the general flow of equipment and plant processes. It shows the relationship between major equipment in a plant facility but does not include minor details such as designations and piping specifics.
What is the difference between a strut and a column?
A column is always vertical, while a strut can carry an axial compressive load in any direction. Both a strut and a column bear compressive loads.
Which elements are needed to increase the corrosion resistance of steel?
Chromium and nickel are the elements required to enhance the corrosion resistance of steel.
What are the principal constituents of brass? C
opper and zinc are the principal constituents of brass.
At what percentage elongation rate does an elastomer become a polymer?
An elastomer is considered a polymer when its percentage elongation rate exceeds 100%.
Distinguish between fatigue and creep.
Fatigue refers to the reduced ability of a material to withstand applied stress under repeated or fluctuating loading conditions.
Creep is the gradual and permanent deformation of a material over time when subjected to a constant stress at high temperatures.
What is the second law of thermodynamics?
The second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy within a closed system will always increase and never decrease over time.
What is a process flow diagram?
A process flow diagram is a diagram commonly used in chemical and process engineering to illustrate the general flow of plant processes and equipment.
Explain mechanical refrigeration.
Mechanical refrigeration is a process that involves removing heat from a designated location using an artificial heat exchange system. This refrigeration system can be of various types, including thermoelectric, magnetic, non-cyclic, or cyclic, depending on the specific refrigeration application required.
Describe the difference between a tube and a pipe.
Pipes are always round, whereas tubes can come in different shapes such as rectangular, square, or cylindrical. The circular shape of a pipe allows for even distribution of pressure forces. Tubes are measured based on their outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness (WT).
What is a bearing?
A bearing is a precision-made component that enables machinery to move at high speeds while reducing friction between moving parts.
What is a P&ID?
A P&ID (piping and instrumentation diagram) is a diagram used in the process industry to depict process equipment, piping, control devices, and instrumentation in detail.
Explain GD&T.
GD&T stands for geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. It is a system used to define and communicate engineering tolerances for precise design and manufacturing.
Why did you choose to study mechanical engineering?
This interview question aims to understand the candidate’s passion for mechanical engineering and their motivations for pursuing the field. It provides insights into their interests in engineering and their desire to contribute to society through quality engineering design.
Discuss your first engineering design.
By asking candidates about their early design work, hiring managers gain insight into their mechanical engineering history, thought processes, and favorite engineering designs.
What is the most important skill a mechanical engineer must have?
This interview question allows candidates to explain what they believe makes a great engineer. Answers may include strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, mathematical proficiency, creative design skills, or a solid foundation in engineering principles.
What CAD system do you prefer, and why?
This question aims to determine the candidate’s preferred CAD (computer-aided design) software, such as SolidWorks, CATIA, Inventor, or others. It also provides an opportunity to discuss the candidate’s experience with CAD software and its alignment with the job requirements.
What engineering skill have you recently learned?
Candidates who show interest in learning new skills, software programs, and problem-solving approaches demonstrate adaptability and a love for continuous improvement.
Tell me about your most successful engineering project.
This question gives candidates the opportunity to discuss their most successful engineering projects, highlighting their contributions, technical skills, and lessons learned from the experience.
Have you worked on an engineering project that failed?
By asking about failed projects, interviewers can gauge the candidate’s ability to learn from mistakes and grow as an engineer.
What mechanical engineering tasks interest you?
This question helps assess the candidate’s preferences and areas of interest within mechanical engineering, such as equations, design, prototyping, testing, analysis, or communication.
Describe your process for checking flaws.
Asking about the candidate’s approach to checking for flaws allows interviewers to understand their thought processes, workflows, and problem-solving skills.
Do you prefer working alone or in an engineering team?
This question helps determine the candidate’s preference for working individually or collaboratively in a team environment.
Have you ever sent incomplete engineering work to a client? If so, why?
This question addresses the candidate’s attention to detail and professionalism when it comes to delivering complete and accurate engineering work to clients.
How would you explain a complex design to a non-technical person?
Candidates who can effectively communicate complex engineering concepts in simple terms demonstrate their ability to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
These questions cover a range of topics and can provide valuable insights into a candidate’s knowledge, skills, experience, and problem-solving abilities in the field of mechanical engineering.