About this previous year paper
The B.Tech Measurement and Metrology (RME401) question paper from the 2017–18 IV Semester Theory Examination is a meticulously structured, 70-mark assessment aimed at evaluating a student’s understanding of measurement systems, industrial metrology, sensors, gauges, limits & fits, strain measurement, precision instruments, and temperature/pressure measurement devices. The exam contains conceptual, descriptive, and numerical questions distributed across three major sections meant to test both theoretical knowledge and application-based problem-solving.
MEASUREMENT-AND-METROLOGY-RME401
SECTION A – Basic Concepts (Short Answer Questions, 14 Marks)
This section consists of 7 short questions, each carrying 2 marks, to assess foundational understanding of measurement science. Students answer definitions and basic distinctions related to:
Metrology and its purpose in engineering Sensitivity of measuring instruments
Functions of sensors Temperature-measuring instruments (thermocouples, RTDs, pyrometers, etc.)
Zero error in instruments Difference between sensor and transducer
Range vs. span in instruments
This section ensures students are comfortable with the core vocabulary and principles of metrology.
SECTION B – Intermediate Descriptive Questions (Any 3 × 7 = 21 Marks)
This section contains deeper, explanation-based questions covering:
1. Generalized Measurement System
Students must explain the block diagram, including elements such as:
Primary sensing element Variable conversion element
Signal conditioning Data presentation
With relevant examples like pressure measurement or temperature measurement.
2. Types of Sensors
Classification of sensors based on physical property (thermal, mechanical, optical, etc.), with:
Applications Advantages Limitations
3. Low-pressure Measuring Devices & McLeod Gauge
Students list low-pressure devices (e.g., Pirani gauge, ionization gauge) and explain McLeod gauge working principle clearly.
4. Interferometry
A popular question explaining:
Working principle (light interference)
Applications: surface flatness, gauge block calibration, etc.
5. Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)
Construction, types (bridge type, cantilever type, gantry type), applications, & advantages with a neat sketch.
These questions test clarity of thought, diagrammatic accuracy, and conceptual depth.
SECTION C – Advanced Problems, Instruments & Numerical Questions (5 × 7 Marks)
This section contains analytical, design-based, and numerical questions, each with internal choice.
Q3 – Limits, Fits, Gauges & Tolerances
Taylor’s principle of gauge design
Numerical problem:
Determine dimensions for 30H7/h9 fit, allowance, and maximum clearance
OR: Short notes on:
Limits, fits, tolerances
Comparators (mechanical, optical, electrical)
Q4 – Specialized Instruments
Topics include:
Johansson’s Microkrator (precision measurement)
Accelerometer
Strain rosettes
Or explanation of optical pyrometer with construction, working, and industrial significance.
Q5 – Autocollimator & System of Fits
Constructional details & usage of autocollimator for measuring:
Straightness
Flatness
Roundness
Or explanation with sketches of:
Hole basis system
Shaft basis system
MEASUREMENT-AND-METROLOGY-RME401
Q6 – Strain Gauges & Measurement Devices
Classification of strain gauges (wire, foil, semiconductor)
Working of Wheatstone bridge in balanced/unbalanced conditions
OR notes on:
Stroboscope
Thermistor
Seismic instruments
Q7 – Numerical Problems in Temperature & Strain Measurement
Includes engineering numerical calculations such as:
1. Platinum Resistance Thermometer
Find resistance at given temperature
Find temperature for given resistance (using α = 0.004 Ω/Ω°C)
2. Strain Gauge Numerical
Given:
Gauge length
Cross-sectional area
Young’s modulus
Change in resistance
Calculate:
Change in length
Applied force
These numericals assess applied mathematical understanding in metrology contexts.
OVERALL ESSENCE OF THE PAPER
This question paper thoroughly evaluates:
Understanding of sensors, transducers & gauges
Precision measurement techniques
Industrial metrology (fits, tolerances, limits)
Coordinate measuring systems (CMM)
Interferometry & optical devices
Pressure/temperature measurement systems
Strain measurement & Wheatstone bridge
Numerical problem-solving in measurement science
It serves as an excellent resource for engineering students preparing for metrology-focused examinations and practical industrial applications.