BME previous year questions

1. Introduction

1. Discuss Closed, Open, and Isolated Thermodynamic

systems with neat Sketches. (W18, S20, W21,)

Ans. The thermodynamic system consists of three

system:
1. Closed System: The system that exchange no
matter but energy with their surroundings is called
as closed system.
E.g., Water Bottle

2. Open System: The system that exchange both

matter and energy with their environment is called
open system.
E.g., Refrigerator

3. Isolated System: The system that exchange

neither matter nor energy with the surroundings is
called isolated system.
E.g., Sealed Flask
 2. Define the Zeroth law of thermodynamics and the
First law of thermodynamics. (W20, W21)

Ans. According to the Zeroth law of thermodynamics,

if two thermodynamic systems are in thermal
equilibrium with a third one, then they are in thermal
equilibrium with each other. The law simply follows
the concept of temperature.
Therefore, in mathematical expression, the law can be
stated as:
If a=c and b=c, then a=b. (Here, a, b, and c represent
three different thermal bodies where a and b have the
same temperature and the temperature of c is both
equal to a and b. therefore, a=b=c).
The first law of Thermodynamics is also called ‘Law of
Conservation of Energy’. The law of conservation of
energy states that “Energy can neither be destroyed
nor be created, it can only be transferred from one
form to another”.

3. Define prime movers. Write any four examples of

the prime movers. (W19, W20)
Ans.
A prime mover is defined as a device which converts
energy from natural sources into mechanical energy
or useful work (shaft power).
Examples of prime movers are wind turbine, steam
turbine, water turbine, I.C. Engine, etc.

4. Define the Melting point, Boiling point, and Tripple

point of water using a p-v Diagram. (S19)
Ans. Melting point:
It is the temperature at which the solid is converted
into liquid when heat is supplied.
Boiling point:
It is the temperature at which the liquid is converted
into vapour when heat is supplied.
Triple point:
The temperature and pressure at which the solid,
liquid, and vapour phases of a pure substance can
coexist in equilibrium.
5. Define the following terms: Internal energy, heat
capacity, state, Path. (W20)
Ans.
Internal energy: It is the total of the kinetic energy
due to the motion of molecules and the potential
energy associated with the vibrational motion and
electric energy of atoms within molecules.

Heat capacity: The amount of heat needed to cause

a unit change in temperature in a given mass of
material.

State: A system is said to be exist in a definite state

if all the properties of the system (pressure,
temperature, volume etc,) have fixed values.

Panth: The series of states through which the

system passes during the process is known as path.

6. The heat transfer from a heat reservoir is

proportional to its temperature: Justify By deriving
the equation. (w18)
2. Energy

1. Write a short note on “Global Warming and solar

energy” (W21)
Ans. Global warming is the gradual increase in the
average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and
oceans, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels
and other human activities that release greenhouse
gases into the atmosphere. One of the ways to
combat global warming is by increasing the use of
renewable energy sources, such as solar energy.

Solar energy is a clean, renewable and abundant

energy source that can be used to generate
electricity and heat. It does not emit any
greenhouse gases or other pollutants, making it a
key solution to reducing the emissions that
contribute to global warming.

The use of solar energy can help to decrease the

dependence on fossil fuels, which are the main
source of greenhouse gas emissions. Solar power
systems can also be installed on a small scale, such
as on individual homes, or on a large scale, such as
in utility-scale solar power plants.

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions,

solar energy can also create jobs, reduce
 dependence on foreign oil, and improve energy
security. With technological advancements, the cost
of solar energy is also decreasing making it more
accessible to more people.

Overall, solar energy is a promising solution to

address global warming, while also providing a
clean and sustainable source of energy.

2. List the non-conventional sources of energy.

Prepare a short note on solar energy. (W19)

Ans.
Non-conventional sources are also known as
renewable sources of energy. Examples of non-
conventional sources of energy include solar
energy, bioenergy, tidal energy, and wind
energy.

Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and

abundant energy source that can be used to
generate electricity and heat. It does not emit
any greenhouse gases or other pollutants,
making it a key solution to reducing the
emissions that contribute to global warming.

The use of solar energy can help to decrease

the dependence on fossil fuels, which are the
 main source of greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar power systems can also be installed on a
small scale, such as on individual homes, or on
a large scale, such as in utility-scale solar power
plants.

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas

emissions, solar energy can also create jobs,
reduce dependence on foreign oil, and improve
energy security. With technological
advancements, the cost of solar energy is also
decreasing making it more accessible to more
people.

Overall, solar energy is a promising solution to

address global warming, while also providing a
clean and sustainable source of energy.

3. Discuss the factors responsible for global warming

and Ozone depletion. (S19, W20)

Ans. Factors responsible for global warming:

 Most Greenhouse gases are generated by mankind,

Vehicles burning Fossil fuels and Deforestation.
 Global warming is caused by excessive quantities of
greenhouse gases emitted into Earth’s near-surface
atmosphere.
  Greenhouse gases are both man-mad and occur
naturally, and include a number of gases, including
carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide,
chlorofluorocarbons, and water vapor.

Factors responsible for ozone depletion:

 The ozone layer depletion is a major concern and is

associated with a number of factors.

The main causes responsible for the depletion of the

ozone layer are listed below:

 Chlorofluorocarbons
o Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs are the main

cause of ozone layer depletion. These are

released by solvents, spray aerosols,
refrigerators, air-conditioners, etc.
o The molecules of chlorofluorocarbons in the

stratosphere are broken down by the ultraviolet

radiations and release chlorine atoms. These
atoms react with ozone and destroy it.
 Unregulated Rocket Launches
o Researches say that the unregulated launching

of rockets result in much more depletion of

ozone layer than the CFCs do. If not controlled,
this might result in a huge loss of the ozone
layer by the year 2050.
 Nitrogenous Compounds
 o The nitrogenous compounds such
as NO2 , NO , N2O are highly responsible for
the depletion of the ozone layer.
 Natural Causes
o The ozone layer has been found to be depleted

by certain natural processes such as Sun-spots

and stratospheric winds. But it does not cause
more than 1-2% of the ozone layer depletion.
o The volcanic eruptions are also responsible for

the depletion of the ozone layer.

4. List advantages of Solar energy and its

application(W2020)

Ans. Advantages of solar energy:

 Pollution free and causes no greenhouse gases to

be emitted.
 Reduced dependence on foreign oil and fossil fuels.

 Renewable clean power that is available every day

of the year.
 Return on investment unlike paying for utility bills.

 No operating and maintenance cost.

5. What is solid fuel? Discuss different types of solid

fuel. (w18)
Ans. The natural solid fuels are wood, peat, lignite or
brown coal, bituminous coal and anthracite coal. The
prepared solid fuels are wood charcoal, coke,
briquetted coal and pulverised coal. These fuels are
discussed, as follows:

1. Wood. It consists of mainly carbon and hydrogen.

The wood is converted into coal when burnt in the
absence of air. The average calorific value of wood is
about 19700 kJ / kg.

2. Peat. It may be regarded as the first stage in the

formation of coal. Its average calorific value is 23000
kJ / kg.

3. Lignite or brown coal. It represents the next stage of

peat in the coal formation, and is an intermediate
variety between bituminous coal and peat. Its average
calorific value is 25000 kJ / kg.

4. Bituminous coal. It represents the next stage of

lignite in the coal formation and contains very little
moisture (4 to 6 %) and 75 to 90 % of carbon. The
average calorific value of bituminous coal is 33500 kJ /
kg.

5. Anthracite coal. It represents the final stage in the

coal formation and contains 90% or more carbon with
a very little volatile matter. It possesses a high calorific
value of about 36000 kJ / kg and is, therefore, very
valuable for steam raising and general power
purposes.
 6. Wood charcoal. It is made by heating wood with a
limited supply of air to a temperature not less than
280° C. It is a good prepared solid fuel, and is used for
various metallurgical processes.

7. Coke. It is produced when coal is strongly heated

continuously for 42 to 48 hours in the absence of air
in a closed vessel. This process is known as
carbonisation of coal. Coke is dull black in colour,
porous and smokeless. It has a high carbon content
(85 to 90%) and has a higher calorific value than coal.

8. Briquetted coal. It is produced from the finely

ground coal by moulding under pressure with or
without a binding material. The briquetted coal has
the advantage of having, practically, no loss of fuel
through grate openings and thus it increases the
heating value of the fuel.

9. Pulverised coal. The low-grade coal with a high ash

content, is powdered to produce pulverised coal. The
coal is first dried and then crushed into a fine powder
by pulverising machines. The pulverised coal is Widely
used in the cement industry and also in metallurgical
processes.

3. Properties of gases
 1. Define specific heat at Constant volume, constant
pressure, and Adiabatic Index. Also derive the
relationship between specific heats in form of a
Characteristic gas constant. (S19, W19, W21)

Ans. Specific heat at constant pressure: -

the principle specific heat capacity of a gas at
constant pressure is defined as the quantity of heat
absorbed or released for the rise or fall of
temperature of unit mass of gas through 1K i.e 1°C
when its pressure is kept constant.
Specific heat at constant volume: -
the principle specific heat capacity of a gas at
constant volume is defined as the quantity of heat
absorbed or released for the rise or fall of
temperature of unit mass of a gas through 1 K or
1°C when its volume is kept constant.
Adiabatic Index: -
The ratio of the heat capacity at constant pressure
(CP) to heat capacity at constant volume (C V).

2. Differentiate between gas constant and Universal

gas constant. (W19)
Ans.
Universal gas constant is only applied for an ideal
gas. A characteristic gas constant is applied for a
real gas. Universal gas constant is calculated using
standard temperature and the pressure (STP) values.
Characteristic gas constant is calculated with STP
values along with the molar mass of real gas.

3. Derive an expression for internal energy for a closed

system (S19, S20)
4. Define the following terms: Boyle’s law, Avogadro’s
law, and Charle’s Law. (w20)
Ans.
Boyle's Law: The volume of gas increases as the
pressure decreases.
Charles' Law: the volume of gas increases as the
temperature increases.
Avogadro's: that the volume of gas increases as the
amount of gas increases.

5. Explain the adiabatic process. Derive an expression

for work done during the adiabatic expansion of an
ideal gas. (W20)
Ans.

6. Describe the Isothermal process and derive an

expression for Work done, Change in Internal
energy, Heat transfer, and Change in Enthalpy.
(w18)
Ans.
4. Properties of Steam

1. Describe the process of formation steam on the T-H

diagram. (W18, W21)
Ans.

2. Define (i) Dryness fraction and (ii) wetness fraction.

(W21)

Ans.
Dryness fraction is defined as the ratio of the mass
of dry vapor (steam) to the combined mass of dry
vapor (steam) and the mass of liquid in the mixture.
Wetness fraction is a fraction expressing the ratio of
the weight of free water particles to that of the
whole in a quantity of wet steam.
3. Write the uses of “Steam Tables”. (W19, S20)

Ans.
1. A saturated steam table is an indispensable tool for
any engineer working with steam.
2. It is quite cumbersome to calculate each time, the
value and relation between various properties.
3. So, these are experimentally determined and
presented in the form of tables showing value of
each property w.r.t either saturation temperature or
saturation pressure.
4. It is typically used to determine saturated steam
temperature from steam pressure, or the pressure
from saturated steam temperature.
5. In addition to pressure and temperature, these
tables include other related values such as specific
enthalpy (h) and specific volume (v), and specific
entropy (s).
6. All the properties are varied with the change in
saturation pressure and for a particular saturation
pressure there is a fix value of saturation
temperature.
7. These properties are required in thermodynamic
calculations where steam is used as working
medium.
8. The value of properties of saturated steam and
superheated steam are given separately.
9. If any given pressure falls in between two values
given in table, then value of concerned property on
this pressure may be calculated by interpolation.
4. Explain Equivalent evaporation and factor of
evaporation (S19, S20)

Ans.
Equivalent evaporation is the amount of water that
would need to be evaporated from a body of water
to produce a given amount of energy. It is a
measure of the energy required to evaporate a
given volume of water and is used to evaluate the
performance of various energy systems and water
management strategies.
There are four primary factors that affect the rate of
evaporation, temperature, surface area, wind, and
humidity.

5. What is throttling calorimeter? Explain its limitation

(W18, S20)

Ans.
Throttling Calorimeter: It is a vessel with a needle
valve fitted on the inlet side. The moisture from the
 wet steam sample is first removed in separating
calorimeter so that the dryness of the wet steam
sample is increased above 0.95 before the steam
sample enters enter the throttling calorimeter.

Limitations:

 This calorimeter is used when the dryness fraction is

greater than 0.95.
 To use this calorimeter condition of steam after
throttling must be superheated.

6. What is superheated steam, list its advantages and

application. (W2020)

Ans.
Superheated steam is steam at a temperature
higher than its boiling point for the pressure which
only occurs where all the water has evaporated or
has been removed from the system.
The 3 main benefits of superheated steam are:
 High temperatures at normal pressure: meaning you

can use simple piping.

 Extremely high thermal conductivity compared to

hot air because of the high capacity per unit

volume.
 Low oxygen conditions: preventing oxidation and

lowering the possibility of fires or explosions.

7. With neat sketch explain construction and working
of separating Calorimeter. (W2020)

Ans.

It consists of two concentric chambers, the inner

chamber, and the outer chamber, which
communicates with each other through an opening at
the top. As the steam discharges through the metal
basket, which has many holes, the water particles due
to their heavier momentum get separated from the
steam and collect in the chamber. The comparatively
dry steam in the inner chamber moves up and then
down aging through the annular space between the
two chambers and enters the Throttling Calorimeter.
 It is a vessel used initially to separate some of the
moisture from the steam, to ensure superheat
conditions after throttling. The steam is made to
change direction suddenly; the moisture droplets,
being heavier than the vapor, drop out of suspension
and are collected at the bottom of the vessel.

8. Dryness fraction of steam cannot have the value

more than unity: Justify (w18)

Ans.
It cannot be greater than one, as per the basic
definition of dryness fraction, it is the ratio of mass
of vapour to the sum of mass of liquid and vapour.
So, when it is saturated, mass of liquid is zero and
its value is one and remain one in the superheated
region also.

5. Heat Engines

1. With usual notations derive an expression to

determine the efficiency of the Otto Cycle. (w19,
S20,W20)
2. Derive the equation for the efficiency of Carnot(S19)
 3. Prove that the efficiency of the Otto cycle is greater
than that of the Diesel cycle for the same
compression ratio. (S19)
4. The heat transfer from a heat reservoir is
proportional to its Temperature: Justify by deriving
equation (S20)
5. The efficiency of the Otto cycle is a function of
compression ratio: Prove it. (w18)
6. Discuss the Rankine cycle with a block diagram.
(w18)

6. Steam Boilers

1. How do you classify steam boilers? (W21)

Ans. Horizontal , Vertical and Inclined boiler

(a) If the axis of the boiler is horizontal, it is called
the horizontal boiler.
(b) If the axis of the boiler is vertical, it is called the
vertical boiler.
(c) If the axis of the boiler is inclined, it is called the
inclined boiler.

Fire tube and Water tube boilers:-

(a) The boilers in which the hot gases are inside the
tubes and water is surrounding them is called fire
tube boiler.
(b) The boilers in which the water is inside the tubes
and the hot gases surrounding them is called water
tube boiler.

Externally fired and internally fired boilers: -

(a) In the boiler if the fire is outside the shell, that
boiler is known as externally fired boiler.
(b) The boiler in which the furnace is located inside
the boiler shell it is known as internally fired boiler.
Forced Circulation and Natural circulation boiler: -
(a) In the boilers if the circulation of water is done
by a pump then they are known as forced
circulation boilers.
(b) In the boilers of the circulation of water takes
place due to difference in density resulting from
difference in temperature, it is known as natural
circulation boilers. High, medium and low pressure
boilers:
(a) It is one in which the working pressure of the
boiler is more than 25 bar, it is known as high
pressure boilers.
(b) It is one in which the working pressure of the
boiler is between 10 to 25 bar, it is known as
medium pressure boilers.
(c) It is one in which the working pressure of the
boiler is between 3.5 to 10 bar, it is known as low
pressure boilers.

Stationary and portable boilers: -

 (a) The boilers which cannot be transported easily
from one place to another are called stationary
boilers.
(b) The boilers which can be transported easily from
one place to another are called portable boilers.

Single tube and multi tube boilers: -

(a) The Boiler having only one fire tube or water
tube in the boiler then it is known as single tube
boiler.
(b) The Boiler having two or more fire tube or water
tube in the boiler then it is known as multi tube
boiler.

2. Draw a labelled diagram of the Babcock and Wilcox

boiler. (W21)
Ans.
3. Discuss the construction details and working of the
Cochran boiler with a neat sketch. (W19)
Ans.
The Cochran boiler operates in a manner akin to other
fire tube boilers, as elucidated by the following steps:

o Coal is introduced onto the grate via a fire hole.

o Air from the surroundings enters the combustion
chamber.
o Fuel is ignited through the fire hole.
o The resulting combustion gases flow into the
hemisphere-shaped partition chamber.
o These flue gases continue through the fire tubes.
o Heat is transferred from the gases to the water
within the fire tubes.
o Steam accumulates in the upper section of the shell,
and once the desired pressure is attained, it is
extracted.
o The flue gases subsequently exit through a firebox
and are released into the atmosphere.

4. Differentiate between boiler mountings and

accessories. (W19)
 Ans.

5. Explain with neat sketch, the construction and

working of (1) Fusible plug (2) Air preheater. (W19)

Ans.
Fusible plug:
Function:

The main function of the fusible plug is to extinguish

fire when water level in the boiler falls below an
unsafe level.

Construction & Working

 It consists of three plugs.

 The hollow plug A having hexagonal flanges is
screwed to the fire box crown plate.
 The plug B gunmetal plug is screwed to the body A.
 The third plug C is made up of copper is locked with
metal like tin or lead which has a low melting point.
 In normal working condition, water covers the
fusible plug remains cool.
 In case the water level falls below the danger levels,
the fusible plug gets exposed to steam, this
overheats the plug and fusible metal having low
melting point melts quickly.
 Due to this plug S falls, the opening so made allows
the steam to rush on to the furnaces and
extinguishes the fire or it gives warning to the boiler
attendant that the crown of furnace is in danger of
being overheated.

Air preheater:
Function
It increases the temperature of air before it supply
to the furnace using heat from flue gases passing
 through the chimney.

Construction and Working

 It is installed between economizer and the chimney.

 It consists of large numbers of tubes which
arranged in path of flue gases.
 A hot flue gas enters into tubes from top of shell
and leave from the bottom to the chimney.
 The inlet air at room temperature is admitted into
shell at lower end with the help of the fan.
 The air passes upward around the tubes in the
opposite direction to the flow of hot flue gases.
 The soot hopper provided at the bottom is used to
collect soot during cleaning operation of the tubes.

6. What is the boiler? Compare the fire tube boiler

with the water tube boiler. (W19)

Ans. Boiler is a closed vessel in which water is

converted into steam through the application of heat.
 7. Explain the construction and function of the Steam
Trap with a neat sketch. Also, mention its specific
location in the system. (S19)

Ans. Function

 A steam trap is a device used to discharge

condensate and non-condensable gases with a
negligible consumption or loss of live steam. Most
steam traps are nothing more than automatic
valves.

Construction and Working

 The thermodynamic trap is an extremely robust

steam trap with a simple mode of operation. The
 trap operates by means of the dynamic effect of
flash steam as it passes through the trap. The only
moving part is the disc above the flat face inside the
control chamber or cap.
 On start-up, incoming pressure raises the disc, and
cool condensate plus air is immediately discharged
from the inner ring, under the disc, and out through
three peripheral outlets.
 Hot condensate flowing through the inlet passage
into the chamber under the disc drops in pressure
and releases flash steam moving at high velocity.
This high velocity creates a low pressure area under
the disc, drawing it towards its seat.
 At the same time, the flash steam pressure builds up
inside the chamber above the disc, forcing it down
against the incoming condensate until it seats on
the inner and outer rings.
 At this point, the flash steam is trapped in the upper
chamber, and the pressure above the disc equals
the pressure being applied to the underside of the
disc from the inner ring. However, the top of the
disc is subject to a greater force than the underside,
as it has a greater surface area.
 Eventually the trapped pressure in the upper
chamber falls as the flash steam condenses. The disc
is raised by the now higher condensate pressure
and the cycle repeats.
 8. Explain the construction and function of the Steam
separator with a neat Sketch. Also, mention its
specific location in the system. (S19)

Ans. Function

 It separates water particles from steam before it is

supplied to a steam engine or turbine. Thus it
prevents the damaging of turbine blades due to
moisture present in steam.

Location

 It is located in the supply line near the turbine or

engine.
 Construction

 The separator with baffle plates is shown in figure.

 It consists of a cylindrical vessel. The vessel is fitted
with baffle plates.
 A water gauge is fitted to indicate the water
collected in the separator to drain away to
separated water.

Working

 The steam is allowed into the separator. The steam

strikes the baffle plates and the direction of the flow
is changed.
 As a result, heavier water particles in steam falls
down to the bottom of the separator. The separated
steam is free from water particles.
 It is then passed to the turbine or engine through
the outlet pipe.

9. List different mountings of boiler and explain

anyone in brief (S20)

Ans. The list of mountings are:

 Water level indicator
 Pressure gauge
 Safety valves
 Steam stop valve
 Feed check valve
 Blow off cock
 Fusible plug
 Man hole, mud holes or sight holes

One of the mounting, is discussed in detail as under:

Water Level Indicator

Function
It indicates the water level inside the boiler drum to
an observer.
Construction

 This fitting may be seen in front end of the boiler,

and are generally two in number.
 It consists of three cocks and a glass tube. The glass
tube is protected by means of cover, and made of
specially toughened glass as shown in Figure.
 The steam cock keeps the glass tube in connection
with the steam space. The water cock puts the glass
tube in connection with the water in the boiler and
the drain cock is used to drain out the water from
glass tube at frequent intervals to ascertain that the
steam and water cocks are clear.
Construction

 When steam cock and water cock opened, steam

rushed from upper passage and water rushed from
lower passage of the glass tube and the drain cock
is closed.
 This will indicate the level of the water in the boiler.
In this case handles of cocks are placed in a vertical
position.
 Two balls are placed at the junction of metal tubes.
Under normal operating conditions, two balls are
kept as shown in Fig. 6.4 with full line circle.
 In case the glass tube is broken, the two balls are
carried along its passages to the ends of the glass
tube. It is thus obvious, that water and steam will
not escape out.
 The glass tube can be easily replaced by closing the
steam and water cocks and opening the drain cock.

10. Explain the construction and function of the

Steam Trap with a neat sketch (S20)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 7.

11. Discuss with a neat sketch any two boiler

accessories. (S20)
Ans. Economizer
Function

 An economizer is a device in which the waste heat

of the flue gases is utilized for heating the feed
water.

Construction and Working

 It consists of large number of vertical cast iron or

steel water tubes connected with two horizontal
header pipes A and B, one at the top and other at
the bottom as shown in Figure 1.
 Header pipe A is the bottom pipe through which
the feed water is pumped into the economizer. The
water comes into the top header pipe B from the
bottom pipe and finally flows into the boiler.
 The flue gases flows around the pipes in the
direction opposite to the flow of water.
Consequently, heat transfer to the surface of the
pipes takes place and water is thereby heated. A
blow off cock is provided at the back end of vertical
pipes to remove sediments deposited in the bottom
boxes.
 The safety valve is provided at the end of the pipe A
for the safety of pipes.
 The soot of flue gases deposited on the pipes
reduces the efficiency of economizer. To prevent
the soot deposit, the scrapers move up and down to
keep the external surface of pipe clean.
 By-pass arrangement of flue gases enables to
isolate or include the economizer in the path of flue
gases.

Super Heater
Function

 Super heater increases the temperature of the

steam above its saturation temperature by utilizing
exhaust flue gases.

Construction and Working

 Figure 2 shows Sugden’s superheater installed in a

Lancashire boiler. It is located in the path of furnace
gases so that heat is recovered from hot gases.
 It consists of two steel headers to which are
attached solid drawn ‘U shaped’ tubes of steel.
These tubes are arranged in groups of four and one
pair of the headers generally carries ten of these
groups or total of forty tubes.
 The U-tubes are placed in the path of flue gases.
The amount of hot gases passed over the
superheater tubes should be propertion to the
steam passing through tubes and degree of
superheat required.
 The degree of superheat is control by damper which
is operated by hand wheel. Some amount of hot
gases may be dirverted with the help of the damper
to avoid overheating.
 When damper is in vertical position then flue gases
not passes over the superheater but passing directly
to bottom flue passage, no superheating of steam
takes place.
 When the stop valve A is closed, stop valves B and C
are in open position, the wet steam from boiler
flows into right hand header via stop valve C. After
superheating of steam in the tubes, it flows into the
left hand header, from where it is withdrawn
through the stop valve B.
 If the superheated steam is not needed, the stop
valves B and C are closed and the wet steam is
directly taken out from the boiler through stop
valve A.
12. With a neat sketch explain the construction and
working of the water level Indicator. (W20)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 9(PART1)

13. List essential qualities of a good boiler. (W20)

 Ans. A good steam boiler should have the following
characteristics:
⬥It should have maximum steam generation rate
with minimum fuel consumption.
⬥It should be economical to install
⬥It should required little attention during operation.
⬥It should rapidly meet the fluctuation of load.
⬥It should be capable of quick starting or quick shut
down.
⬥It should be light in weight.
⬥It should occupy a small floor space.
⬥It should be free from manufacturing defects.
⬥All parts or joints should be few and accessible for
cleaning and inspection.

14. List different mountings of boiler and explain

any one in brief. (w18)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 9.

15. Explain: Smoke tube internally fired horizontal

type stationary boiler. (w18)

Ans. Internal Furnace Smoke Tube Boiler: An internal

furnace smoke tube boiler is a type of boiler that has a
furnace that is located inside the boiler shell. The
furnace is surrounded by water, and the heat from the
combustion process is transferred to the water through
the walls of the furnace. The flue gases then travel
through a series of tubes that are also surrounded by
water. This process of heat transfer is called convection.

Internal furnace smoke tube Steam boilers are a popular

type of boiler for a number of reasons. They are
relatively efficient, and they can be used to burn a
variety of fuels. They are also relatively easy to maintain,
and they can be installed in a variety of locations.

On the basis of Heat Transfer methods between the flue

gases and water, most boilers can be divided into two
basic parts:
Furnace: Where the radiation heat transfer dominates.
Tubes: Where the convection heat transfer is prominent.

7. Internal Combustion Engines

1. Write a difference between SI engine and CI engine.

(W21)

Ans.
2. Classify I.C. Engines (W19)

Ans. There are two kinds of internal combustion

engines currently in production: the spark ignition
gasoline engine and the compression ignition diesel
engine. Most of these are four-stroke cycle engines,
meaning four piston strokes are needed to complete a
cycle. The cycle includes four distinct processes:
intake, compression, combustion and power stroke,
and exhaust.

Spark ignition gasoline and compression ignition

diesel engines differ in how they supply and ignite the
fuel. In a spark ignition engine, the fuel is mixed with
air and then inducted into the cylinder during the
intake process. After the piston compresses the fuel-
air mixture, the spark ignites it, causing combustion.
The expansion of the combustion gases pushes the
piston during the power stroke. In a diesel engine,
only air is inducted into the engine and then
compressed. Diesel engines then spray the fuel into
the hot compressed air at a suitable, measured rate,
causing it to ignite.

3. Discuss the construction and working of four-stroke

Petrol engines. (W19, S20)

Ans. A four-stroke engine is an internal combustion

engine that utilises four distinct piston strokes (intake,
compression, power, and exhaust) to complete one
operating cycle. A complete operation in a four-stroke
engine requires two revolutions (7200) of the
crankshaft.
The four strokes of the engine go by the following
names:

Suction/Intake Stroke
Intake stroke occurs when the air-fuel mixture is
introduced to the combustion chamber. In this stroke,
the piston moves from TDC (Top Dead Centre – the
farthest position of the piston to the crankshaft) to
BDC (Bottom Dead Centre – the nearest position of
the piston to the crankshaft.) The movement of the
piston towards the BDC creates a low-pressure area in
the cylinder. The inlet valve remains to open a few
degrees of crankshaft rotation after BDC. The intake
valve then closes, and the air-fuel mixture is sealed in
the cylinder.

Compression Stroke
In compression stroke, the trapped air-fuel mixture is
compressed inside the cylinder. During the stroke, the
piston moves from BDC to TDC, compressing the air-
fuel mixture. The momentum of the flywheel helps the
piston move forward. Compressing the air-fuel
mixture allows more energy to be released when the
charge is ignited. The charge is the volume of
compressed air-fuel mixture trapped inside the
combustion chamber ready for ignition. The inlet and
outlet valves must be closed to ensure that the
cylinder is sealed, resulting in compression.

Power/Combustion Stroke
The second rotation of the crankshaft begins when it
completes a full rotation during the compression
stroke. The power stroke occurs when the compressed
air-fuel mixture is ignited with the help of a spark
plug. Ignition or Combustion is the rapid, oxidizing
chemical reaction in which a fuel chemically combines
with oxygen in the atmosphere and releases energy in
the form of heat. The hot expanding gases force the
piston head away from the cylinder head.

Exhaust Stroke
As the piston reaches BDC during the power stroke,
combustion is complete, and the cylinder is filled with
exhaust gases. The exhaust valves open during this
stroke, and the inertia of the flywheel and other
moving parts push the piston back to TDC, forcing the
exhaust gases through the open exhaust valve. At the
end of the exhaust stroke, the piston is at TDC, and
one operating cycle has been completed.

4. Explain the following terms: volumetric efficiency,

and compression ratio. (W20)

Ans. Volumetric efficiency: -

 The volumetric efficiency represents the
efficiency of a compressor cylinder to compress
gas. It may be defined as the ratio of the
volume of gas actually delivered to the piston
displacement, corrected to suction temperature
and pressure.
Compression ratio: -
The compression ratio is defined as the ratio
between the volume of the cylinder with the
piston in the bottom position, Vbottom (largest
volume), and in the top position, Vtop (smallest
volume).

5. Draw a neat sketch of an internal combustion

engine, list its parts, and state the Functions of each.
(W20)

Ans. It is an engine in which combustion of fuel take

place inside the engine. When the fuel burns inside
the engine cylinder, it generates a high temperature
and pressure. This high-pressure force is exerted on
the piston (A device which free to moves inside the
cylinder and transmit the pressure force to crank by
use of connecting rod), which used to rotate the
wheels of vehicle. In these engines we can use only
gases and high volatile fuel like petrol, diesel. These
engines are generally used in automobile industries,
generation of electric power etc.
COMPONENTS OF IC ENGINE
1. Cylinder block
Cylinder is the main body of IC engine. Cylinder is a
part in which the intake of fuel, compression of fuel
and burning of fuel take place. The main function of
cylinder is to guide the piston. It is in direct contact
with the products of combustion so it must be cooled.
For cooling of cylinder, a water jacket (for liquid
cooling used in most of cars) or fin (for air cooling
used in most of bikes) are situated at the outer side of
cylinder. At the upper end of cylinder, cylinder head
and at the bottom end crank case is bolted. The upper
side of cylinder is consisting a combustion chamber
where fuel burns. To handle all this pressure and
temperature generated by combustion of fuel,
cylinder material should have high compressive
strength. So, it is made by high grade cast iron. It is
made by casting and usually cast in one piece.

2. Cylinder head
The top end of the engine cylinder is closed by means
of removable cylinder head. There are two holes or
ports at the cylinder head, one for intake of fuel and
other for exhaust. Both the intake and exhaust ports
are closed by the two valves known as inlet and
exhaust valve. The inlet valve, exhaust valve, spark
plug, injector etc. are bolted on the cylinder head. The
main function of cylinder head is to seal the cylinder
block and not to permit entry and exit of gases on
cover head valve engine. Cylinder head is usually
made by cast iron or aluminium. It is made by casting
or forging and usually in one piece.

3. Piston
A piston is fitted to each cylinder as a face to receive
gas pressure and transmit the thrust to the connecting
rod. It is a prime mover in the engine. The main
function of piston is to give tight seal to the cylinder
through bore and slide freely inside the cylinder.
Piston should be light and sufficient strong to handle
gas pressure generated by combustion of fuel. So the
piston is made by aluminium alloy and sometimes it is
made by cast iron because light alloy piston expands
more than cast iron so they need more clearances to
the bore.

4. Piston rings
A piston must be a fairly loose fit in the cylinder so it
can move freely inside the cylinder. If the piston is too
tight fit, it would expand as it got hot and might stick
tight in the cylinder and if it is too loose it would leak
the vapor pressure. To provide a good sealing fit and
less friction resistance between the piston and
cylinder, pistons are equipped with piston rings. These
rings are fitted in grooves which have been cut in the
piston. They are split at one end so they can expand
or slipped over the end of piston. A small two stroke
engine has two piston rings to provide good sealing,
but a four-stroke engine has an extra ring which is
known as oil ring. Piston rings are made of cast iron of
fine grain and high elastic material which is not
affected by the working heat. Sometimes it is made by
alloy spring steel.

5. Connecting rod
Connecting rod connects the piston to crankshaft and
transmits the motion and thrust of piston to
crankshaft. It converts the reciprocating motion of the
piston into rotary motion of crankshaft. There are two
ends of connecting rod; one is known as big end and
other as small end. Big end is connected to the
crankshaft and the small end is connected to the
piston by use of piston pin. The connecting rods are
made of nickel, chrome, and chrome vanadium steels.
For small engines the material may be aluminium.

6. Crankshaft
The crankshaft of an internal combustion engine
receives the efforts or thrust supplied by piston to the
connecting rod and converts the reciprocating motion
of piston into rotary motion of crankshaft. The
crankshaft mounts in bearing so it can rotate freely.
The shape and size of crankshaft depends on the
number and arrangement of cylinders. It is usually
made by steel forging, but some makers use special
types of cast-iron such as spheroidal graphitic or
nickel alloy castings which are cheaper to produce and
have good service life.
7. Engine bearing
Everywhere there is rotary action in the engine,
bearings are needed. Bearings are used to support the
moving parts. The crankshaft is supported by bearing.
The connecting rod big end is attached to the crank
pin on the crank of the crankshaft by a bearing. A
piston pin at the small end is used to attach the rod to
the piston is also rides in bearings. The main function
of bearings is to reduce friction between these moving
parts. In an IC engine sliding and rolling types of
bearing used. The sliding type bearing which are
sometime called bush is use to attach the connecting
rod to the piston and crankshaft. They are split in
order to permit their assembly into the engine. The
rolling and ball bearing is used to support crankshaft
so it can rotate freely. The typical bearing half is made
of steel or bronze back to which a lining of relatively
soft bearing material is applied.

8. Crankcase
The main body of the engine at which the cylinder are
attached and which contains the crankshaft and
crankshaft bearing is called crankcase. It serves as the
lubricating system too and sometime it is called oil
sump. All the oil for lubrication is placed in it.

9. Valves
To control the inlet and exhaust of internal
combustion engine, valves are used. The number of
valves in an engine depends on the number of
cylinders. Two valves are used for each cylinder one
for inlet of air-fuel mixture inside the cylinder and
other for exhaust of combustion gases. The valves are
fitted in the port at the cylinder head by use of strong
spring. This spring keep them closed. Both valves
usually open inwards.

10. Spark plug

It is used in spark ignition engine. The main function
of a spark plug is to conduct a high potential from the
ignition system into the combustion chamber to ignite
the compressed air fuel mixture. It is fitted on cylinder
head. The spark plug consists of a metal shell having
two electrodes which are insulated from each other
with an air gap. When high potential current supply to
spark plugs it jumping from the supply electrode and
produces the necessary spark.

11. Injector
Injector is usually used in compression ignition engine.
It sprays the fuel into combustion chamber at the end
of compression stroke. It is fitted on cylinder head.

12. Manifold
The main function of manifold is to supply the air fuel
mixture and collects the exhaust gases equally from all
cylinders. In an internal combustion engine two
manifold are used, one for intake and other for
exhaust. They are usually made by aluminium alloy.
13. Camshaft
Camshaft is used in IC engine to control the opening
and closing of valves at proper timing. For proper
engine output inlet valve should open at the end of
exhaust stroke and closed at the end of intake stroke.
So, to regulate its timing, a cam is use which is oval in
shape and it exerts a pressure on the valve to open
and release to close. It is drive by the timing belt
which drives by crankshaft. It is placed at the top or at
the bottom of cylinder.

14. Gudgeoned pin or piston pin

These are hardened steel parallel spindles fitted
through the piston bosses and the small end bushes
or eyes to allow the connecting rods to swivel. It
connects the piston to connecting rod. It is made
hollow for lightness.

15. Pushrod
Pushrod is used when the camshaft is situated at the
bottom end of cylinder. It carries the camshaft motion
to the valves which are situated at the cylinder head.

16. Flywheel
A flywheel is secured on the crankshaft. The main
function of flywheel is to rotate the shaft during
preparatory stroke. It also makes crankshaft rotation
more uniform.
6. Explain the term:
o Clearance volume

o Stroke length

o Swept volume (w18)

 Ans.
Clearance volume: - The clearance volume is the volume
remaining above the piston of an engine when
it reaches top dead centre.
The maximum compression pressure in the piston is
controlled by the clearance volume.

Stroke length: - Stroke length" is defined as the distance

travelled by the piston from Top Dead Centre (T.D.C.) to
Bottom Dead Centre (B.D.C.) in a reciprocating type of
Internal Combustion Engine.

Swept volume: - Swept volume is defined as the volume

of oil that is swept or displaced by the actuator piston
during an opening or closing cycle.

8. Pumps

1. Explain the single-acting reciprocating pump. (W21)

Ans. If a reciprocating pump uses one side of the

piston for pumping liquid, then it is known as a
Single Acting Reciprocating Pump. A
reciprocating pump is often a positive displacement
pump that works on a movement of piston reversal
concept within a cylinder, which draws fluid during
forward stroke and delivers it under pressure during
return or reverse stroke.

The pump usually works at low speeds and is linked

to an electric motor via V-Belts. The
reciprocating pump is very effective at low flow rates
and high heads of liquids. One such type of pump is
particularly prevalent in oil drilling operations.

 Single acting reciprocating pumps convert

mechanical energy into hydraulic energy.
 These pumps use a piston or plunger to create a
reciprocating motion, resulting in fluid suction and
discharge.
 The key components of a single acting
reciprocating pump include the cylinder, piston or
plunger, valves, suction pipe, delivery pipe, and air
vessel.
 Advantages of using a single acting reciprocating
pump include high pressure handling and steady
flow rate, while limitations include more significant
pulsations and lower efficiency.
 Single acting reciprocating pumps have diverse
applications across industries, including oil and
gas, petrochemicals, mining, and agriculture.

2. What is priming? Why is priming required in the

centrifugal pump but not in the Reciprocating
pump? (W21)

Ans. Priming is a crucial process in centrifugal

pumps that ensures the pump is filled with fluid
before it is started. The priming process involves
 filling the pump casing with the fluid to be
pumped, removing any air from the casing, and
creating a seal between the impeller and the casing.

If the pump casing becomes filled with vapours or

gases, the pump impeller becomes gas-bound and
incapable of pumping.
So, energy impart on air is much lesser. So impeller
cannot impart enough energy to air to go out of
casing and suck water so priming is compulsory for in
case of centrifugal pump. In case of reciprocating
pump, it can push out all air by itself as it has suction
and delivery valves to displace “fluid” positively.

3. Classify Air Compressors. Explain the construction

and working of the centrifugal Pump with a sketch.
(W19)

Ans. According to method of compression

A. Reciprocating compressor

1. This type of compressor compresses air by

reciprocating action of piston inside a cylinder.
2. It is suitable for producing high pressure.

B. Rotary Compressor

1. In a rotary compressor, air or gas is compressed due

to the rotation of impeller or blades inside a casing
similar to a rotary pump.

C. Centrifugal compressor

1. A machine in which compression of air to desired

pressure is carried out by a rotating impeller as well
as centrifugal action of air.

According to method of delivery pressure

A. Low pressure - up to 1.1 bar
B. Medium pressure - 1.1. to 8 bar
C. High pressure – 8 to 10 bar
D. Very high pressure - above 10 bar

According to principle of operation

A. Positive displacement

1. In this type, pressure of air is increased by

reducing the volume by positive displacement of
air with piston or with rotating element.
2. These are capable with low volume flow rate.
Examples: Reciprocating compressor, Roots
Blower etc.
 B. Roto dynamic OR steady flow compressor

1. In this type, compression of air is carried out by a

rotating element imparting velocity to the flowing
air and developed desired pressure. Here
compression is achieved by dynamic action of rotor.
2. Examples: Centrifugal, Axial flow, etc.

According to the number of stages

A. Single stage compressor - pressure up to 5 bar
B. Multistage compressor - pressure above 5 bar

According to method of the number of cylinder

A. Single cylinder
B. Multi cylinder

According to method of the pressure limit

A. Fans - pressure ratio 1 to 1.1
B. Blowers - pressure ratio 1.1 to 2.5
C. Compressor - pressure ratio above 2.5

According to volume of air delivered

A. Low capacity - volume flow rate up to 9 m3/min
B. Medium capacity - volume flow rate 10 m3/min to
300 m3/min
C. High capacity: Volume flow rate above 300 m3/min
According to fluid to be compressed
A. Air compressor
B. Gas compressor
C. Vapour compressor

Construction:
Main components: 1. Impeller 2. Casing 3. Suction pipe
4. Delivery pipe

Function of main parts in detail as below:

Impeller

1. It is rotor which is provided with a series of

backward curves vanes or blades.
2. It is mounted on a shaft which is coupled to an
external source of energy (electric motor), which
imparts required energy to the impeller.
3. It gets mechanical energy and converts it to kinetic
and pressure energy of the fluid.
4. Liquid enters the impeller through an eye of the
impeller, high energy liquid than enters the pump
casing.

Casing

1. It is an air tight passage surrounding the impeller,

designed in such a way that kinetic energy of the
 water discharged at the outlet of the impeller is
converted into pressure energy before the water
leaves the casing and enters the delivery pipe.
2. Material of the casing is generally cast iron or cast
steel.
3. The efficiency of the pump depends on the type of
casing used. (Volute casing, Vortex casing and
casing with guide blades

Working

1. “A centrifugal pump works on a principle that when

the liquid is rotated by an external prime mover, it is
thrown away from the axis of rotation and a
centrifugal head is imparted which makes it possible
to raise to the higher elevation.”
2. Before starting a centrifugal pump, liquid is filled in
the suction pipe, impeller, casing and a delivery
pipe up to a delivery valve. This is known as
priming. During priming delivery valve is kept close.
3. After priming, prime mover (electric motor) is
started; delivery valve is still kept closed.
4. Energy given to the impeller by external source (i.e.
prime mover) is transferred to working fluid which
increases the kinetic energy and pressure energy of
the fluid.
5. The rotation of the impeller causes strong suction at
the eye of the pump.
6. After the impeller attains its normal speed, the
delivery valve is opened and liquid is allowed to
flow through the impeller vanes and it attains
higher velocity at the outer periphery.
7. Liquid enters into casing, due to special design of
casing the velocity of liquid decreases and pressure
energy hence increases.
8. With high pressure energy and negligible kinetic
energy liquid enters into delivery pipe and is lifted
to the required height.
9. At that instant partial vacuum is created at the eye
of pump due to centrifugal action of impeller on
liquid.
10. This helps liquid to rush through the suction
pipe towards the impeller eye, to take place of
liquid which has left the impeller vanes.
11. When the pump is to be stopped the delivery
valve should be first closed to stop the back flow of
liquid.
 4. Explain the construction and working of the
centrifugal pump with a neat Sketch (S20)

Ans. Centrifugal pump

Construction:
Centrifugal pump works on a principle which states
that if a fluid of a certain mass is given a force, it
gets thrown outward radially. The main parts of the
centrifugal pump include:
• Suction eye
• Vanes
• Impeller
• Casing
• Suction pipe
• Discharge pipe
The suction pipe is connected to the sump or a
ground level tank from where the fluid has to be
pumped. This pipe at the sump is connected with
strainer thus restricting any foreign particles
entering into the pump. Generally, the length of the
suction pipe is less and thus the friction loss will
also be less.
The other end of the suction pipe is connected to
the suction eye of the pump. The suction eye is the
first point of entry of water into pump. The
discharge pipe is connected to the highest level
where the fluid has to be delivered.
Since the length of the discharge pipe is high the
friction loss will also be higher at the discharge end.
The casing of the pump is of gradually increasing
cross sectional area. It means that velocity of the
fluid is decreased in order to attain pressure energy.
Hence, the casing does the work of reducing the
velocity of the fluid.
Working
 The process liquid enters the suction nozzle and
then into eye (centre) of a revolving device known
as an impeller. When the impeller rotates, it spins
the liquid sitting in the cavities between the vanes
in an outward direction and provides centrifugal
acceleration.
As the liquid leaves the eye of the impeller a low-
pressure area is created causing more liquid to flow
toward the inlet. Because the impeller blades are
curved, the fluid is pushed in a tangential and radial
direction by the centrifugal force. This force acting
inside the pump is same as the one that keeps
water inside a bucket that is rotating at the end of a
string.

5. Discuss with a neat sketch of the Diaphragm pump.

(W18, S20)

Ans. Construction:

 It consist of a diaphragm, displacement chamber,

two valves, and a driving mechanism. The
diaphragm is made of a flexible material compatible
with the pumped media.
 It is sealed in place between the side of the
displacement chamber and an attached flange. The
 chamber's volume is slightly greater than what the
diaphragm can displace.
 The valves are typically spring-loaded ball valves or
flapper valves made of the same material as the
diaphragm, and they function to admit the fluid in
and out of the chamber. The driving mechanism is
what flexes the diaphragm - in the diagram below,
the drive mechanism is a spring activated by a
solenoid.

Working:

 Diaphragm pumps are positive displacement

pumps, meaning they use contracting and
expanding cavities to move fluids.
 Diaphragm pumps work by flexing the diaphragm
out of the displacement chamber. When the
diaphragm moves out, the volume of the pump
chamber increases and causes the pressure within
the chamber to decrease and draw in fluid.
 The inward stroke has the opposite effect,
decreasing the volume and increasing the pressure
of the chamber to move out fluid. This operation is
very similar to the draw in, push out, concept of
human breathing.

6. Classify pumps on basis of principle, construction,
and fluid flow direction in the pump. (W20)

Ans. Generally Pumps classification done on the basis

of its mechanical configuration and their working
principle. Classification of pumps mainly divided into
two major categories:
1. Dynamic pumps / Kinetic pumps
Dynamic pumps impart velocity and pressure to the
fluid as it moves past or through the pump impeller
and, subsequently, convert some of that velocity into
additional pressure. It is also called Kinetic pumps
Kinetic pumps are subdivided into two major groups
and they are centrifugal pumps and positive
displacement pumps.
Classification of Dynamic Pumps
1.1 Centrifugal Pumps
A centrifugal pump is a rotating machine in which flow
and pressure are generated dynamically. The energy
changes occur by virtue of two main parts of the
pump, the impeller and the volute or casing. The
function of the casing is to collect the liquid
discharged by the impeller and to convert some of the
kinetic (velocity) energy into pressure energy.
1.2 Vertical Pumps
Vertical pumps were originally developed for well
pumping. The bore size of the well limits the outside
diameter of the pump and so controls the overall
pump design.
2. Displacement Pumps / Positive displacement
pumps:
Positive displacement pumps, the moving element
(piston, plunger, rotor, lobe, or gear) displaces the
liquid from the pump casing (or cylinder) and, at the
same time, raises the pressure of the liquid. So
displacement pump does not develop pressure; it only
produces a flow of fluid.
Classification of Displacement Pumps
2.1 Reciprocating pumps
In a reciprocating pump, a piston or plunger moves up
and down. During the suction stroke, the pump
cylinder fills with fresh liquid, and the discharge stroke
displaces it through a check valve into the discharge
line. Reciprocating pumps can develop very high
pressures. Plunger, piston and diaphragm pumps are
under these types of pumps.
2.2 Rotary Type Pumps
The pump rotor of rotary pumps displaces the liquid
either by rotating or by a rotating and orbiting
motion. The rotary pump mechanisms consisting of a
casing with closely fitted cams, lobes, or vanes, that
provide a means for conveying a fluid. Vane, gear, and
lobe pumps are positive displacement rotary pumps.
2.3 Pneumatic Pumps
Compressed air is used to move the liquid in
pneumatic pumps. In pneumatic ejectors, compressed
air displaces the liquid from a gravity-fed pressure
vessel through a check valve into the discharge line in
a series of surges spaced by the time required for the
tank or receiver to fill again.
 7. Explain with a neat sketch of single acting Plunger
type pump. (w18)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 1.

9. Air Compressors:

1. List out an application of compressed air. (W21)

Ans. It is used to power pneumatic tools, inflate tires,

apply paint, and clean surfaces.
2. Explain the construction and working of the
centrifugal compressor with a neat Sketch. (W21)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 4(Pumps).

3. Differentiate between reciprocating compressor and

rotary compressor. (W18,W19,S20,W20)

Ans.

4. Draw a neat sketch of a p-v diagram for a single-

stage compressor with Clearance. (S19)

Ans.
 5. Draw a neat sketch of a p-v diagram showing Free
Air Delivery for the air-Compressor. (S19, S20)

Ans. SAME AS ABOVE.

6. Explain the need of multi-staging in reciprocating

air-compressor with their Advantages. (w18)

Ans. SAME AS ABOVE.

10. Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

1. Explain the vapor compression refrigeration cycle

used in domestic Refrigerator. (W21)
OR
2. Explain with a neat sketch the Vapour Compression
Refrigeration system. Also, Draw a p-h and T-s
diagram for the same. (W19)

Ans.
The compression refrigeration cycle consists of
circulating a liquid refrigerant through four stages
of a closed system. As the refrigerant circulates
through the system, it is alternately compressed and
expanded, changing its state from a liquid to a
vapor. As the refrigerant changes state, heat is
absorbed and expelled by the system, lowering the
temperature of the conditioned space.

Stage 1: Compression

In the first stage of the refrigeration cycle,

refrigerant enters a compressor as a low-pressure
vapor. The compressor compresses the refrigerant
to a high-pressure vapor, causing it to become
superheated. Once the refrigerant is compressed
and heated, it leaves the compressor and enters the
next stage of the cycle.

Stage 2: Condensation

After leaving the compressor, the hot vapor

refrigerant enters the next stage of the cycle,
condensation. During the condensation stage, the
refrigerant enters a condenser and flows through a
series of S-shaped tubes. As the hot vapor flows
through the condenser, cool air is blown across the
tubes by a fan.

Because the air being blown across the tubes is

cooler than the refrigerant, heat transfers from the
tubing to the cooler air. This heat transfer causes
the hot vapor refrigerant to reach its saturated
temperature, which then changes its state to a high-
pressure liquid. Once the refrigerant is in a high-
pressure liquid state, it is ready to leave the
condenser and move on to the metering and
expansion stage of the cycle.

Stage 3: Metering and Expansion

The third stage of how compression refrigeration

systems work consists of the high-pressure liquid
refrigerant entering a metering device or expansion
valve. The metering device works to maintain high-
pressure on the inlet side, while also expanding the
liquid refrigerant and lowering the pressure on the
outlet side. During the process of expansion, the
temperature of the liquid refrigerant is also
reduced.

Stage 4: Evaporation
 In a cool, low-pressure liquid state, the refrigerant is
now ready to enter the evaporation stage, which is
where the heat is finally removed from the space
being conditioned.

In the evaporation stage, the cool liquid refrigerant

leaves the metering device and enters coiled tubes
in an evaporator. Fans are then used to blow warm
air from the conditioned space across the
evaporator coils. The cooler refrigerant in the
evaporator coils begins absorbing the heat out of
the warmer air, reducing the temperature in the
conditioned space.

3. Define the terms ‘Refrigeration’, “Ton of

Refrigeration” and “Coefficient of Performance”
(W19, S20, W21)
Ans.
Refrigeration:
It is defined as the method of reducing the
temperature of a system below surrounding
temperature and maintains it at the lower
temperature by continuously abstracting the heat
from it.

Refrigeration:
It is defined as refrigerating effect produced by
melting of 1 ton of ice from and at 0°C in 24 hours.
1 ton of refrigeration = 3.5 kW

Refrigeration:
It is defined as the ratio of refrigerating effect to
work required compressing the refrigerant in the
compressor. It is the reciprocal of the efficiency of a
heat engine. Thus the value of COP is greater than
unity.

4. Discuss the operational difference between Vapour

compression and Vapour absorption refrigeration
cycle. (S19)

Ans.
5. Draw a neat sketch of a domestic refrigerator and
list its different parts. (W20)

Ans.
6. What is split AC? How it works? Explain with
advantages and disadvantages. (w18, W20)

Ans.
A split system AC has two units – indoor and
outdoor. The indoor unit, having the evaporator
 coil, absorbs the hot air and humidity inside the
room. The outdoor unit, having the condenser coil,
cools the hot air and pumps it back into the indoor
unit. The two units are connected to each other with
insulated ducts.

In simple terms, a split AC works by absorbing the

heat and humidity from the room and releasing
excess heat to the external environment. There are
four main components in an AC system –
Condenser Coil, Compressor, Evaporator Coil, and
Expansion Valve.

 The indoor unit absorbs heat and circulates it

around the evaporator coil, which has the
refrigerant. The refrigerant passes to the
compressor.
 The compressor starts and creates high pressure to
heat up the refrigerant. The hot liquid is then
passed to the condenser coil in the outdoor unit.
 The outdoor unit circulates outside air, heats it up,
and releases it back into the external environment.
 The hot refrigerant then passes through the
expansion valve, which cools it up. And it is then
sent back to the evaporator coil, thus completing a
cycle.
 This cycle is repeated till the desired temperature in
the room is maintained. The temperature is set and
measured by the Thermostat. After the cooling is
 done, the compressor shuts down. It switches on
again when the temperature rises.

Split ACs offer numerous advantages, including

energy efficiency, zoned cooling, and easy
installation. They provide the perfect balance
between comfort and convenience. However, it’s
crucial to weigh the cons, such as initial costs and
maintenance requirements, before deciding.

7. Discuss the term:

o Condenser

o Baffle tray

o Evaporator (w18)

Ans.
Condenser: A condenser (or AC condenser) is the
outdoor portion of an air conditioner or heat pump
that either releases or collects heat, depending on
the time of the year.

Baffle tray: Baffle trays are unperforated trays with

large “downcomer” areas for use in low-efficiency
and highly fouling services which require a lower
degree of vapor/liquid contact when compared to
other conventional trays.
 Evaporator: The evaporator coil is the component in
your AC system that absorbs the heat from the air
inside your home.

11. Couplings, Clutches, and Brakes:

1. Write the function of clutch, Break, and Coupling.

(W21)

Ans.
 Clutch: The function and purpose of a clutch is to
transmit torque from a rotating driving motor to a
transmission.

Break: A brake is a mechanical device that inhibits

motion by absorbing energy from a moving system.

Coupling: It connects two shafts together to

accurately transmit the power from the drive side to
the driven side while absorbing the mounting error
(misalignment), etc. of the two shafts.

2. Write a short on a single plate (disc) friction clutch.

(W21)

Ans.

Single plate clutch has one clutch plate and works

on the principle of friction. These are of two types:
Helical spring type and Diaphragm spring type.

In helical spring-type clutches, the helical springs

are used uniformly over the cross-sectional area of
the pressure plate to exert axial force.

In diaphragm spring type clutch, diaphragm spring

is used to exert axial force.
the clutch needs three parts. These are the engine
flywheel, a friction disc called the clutch plate, and a
pressure plate.
A flywheel is a heavy disc with suitable width bolted
to the end of crankshaft.

Friction disc is also called a clutch plate. It has

friction lining on both sides of the friction plate.

The pressure plate is a disc; it engages with a clutch

plate. When the engine is running, and the flywheel
is rotating, the pressure plate also rotates as the
pressure plate is attached to the flywheel.

The friction disc is located between these two. The

clutch is released when the operator or driver has
pushed down the clutch pedal.

This action forces the pressure plate to move away

from the friction disc. There is now air gaps between
the flywheel and the friction disc, and between the
friction disc and the pressure plate. And no power
can be transmitted through the clutch.

During the operation, when the driver releases the

clutch pedal, power can flow through the clutch.

Springs mounted in between the clutch plate and

pressure plate; it forces the pressure plate against
the friction disc. This action clamps the friction disk
tightly between the flywheel and the pressure plate.
 Now, the pressure plate and friction disc rotate with
the flywheel.

3. Distinguish between coupling and clutch. (W19)

Ans.
 Coupling Clutch
Coupling is used to Clutch is used to connect
obtained permanent & disconnect driven shaft
connection between from driving shaft.
driving and driven shaft.
Coupling is used in Clutch is used to transmit
application where driven power between two co-
machine required linear shafts.
continuous service.
Examples: Muff coupling, Examples: Jaw clutch,
Flange coupling, Disc clutch, Cone clutch,
Universal coupling, Centrifugal clutch etc.
Oldham coupling etc.

4. Using a neat sketch explain the working of the Block

brake and Internal Expanding shoe brake. (W18,
S19)

Ans.
Block brake:
A block brake consists of a block or shoe which is
pressed against the rim of a revolving brake wheel
drum. The block is made of a softer material than the
rim of the wheel. This type of a brake is commonly
used on railway trains and tram cars. The friction
between the block and the wheel causes a tangential
braking force to act on the wheel, which retard the
rotation of the wheel. The block is pressed against the
wheel by a force applied to one end of a lever to
which the block is rigidly fixed. The other end of the
lever is pivoted on a fixed fulcrum.

Internal expanding shoe brake:

An internal expanding brake consists of two shoes S1

and S2. The outer surface of the shoes are lined with
some friction material to increase the coefficient of
friction and to prevent wearing away of the metal.
Each shoe is pivoted at one end about a fixed fulcrum
O1and O2 and made to contact a cam at the other
end. When the cam rotates, the shoes are pushed
outwards against the rim of the drum. The friction
between the shoes and the drum produces the
braking torque and hence reduces the speed of the
drum. The shoes are normally held in off position by a
spring. The drum encloses the entire mechanism to
keep out dust and moisture. This type of brake is
commonly used in motor cars and light trucks.

5. Using a neat sketch explain the working of the Cone

clutch and Centrifugal Clutch(S19)

Ans.
Cone clutch:
When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the
male cone slides against the spring force, resulting
in the disengagement of the clutch. Upon releasing
the pressure on the clutch pedal, the spring's force
brings the friction surfaces of the male cone into
direct contact with the female cone.

Centrifugal clutch:

Its operation relies entirely on the centrifugal force

generated by the driving member, such as an
engine or motor. This centrifugal force is harnessed
to engage the clutch with the driven shaft. When
 the engine initiates rotation, it generates a
centrifugal force that causes the sliding shoes to
move outward. This, in turn, connects the friction
lining of the shoes to the inner surface of the drum,
initiating its motion. As the drum is linked to the
driven shaft, power is consequently transmitted
from the engine shaft to the transmission shaft,
ultimately driving the load.

6. Distinguish between coupling and clutch. (S20)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 3.

 7. Draw a sketch and label the following: shoe brake,
cone clutch, and flange Coupling. (W2020)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 4&5.

8. Explain with a sketch:

o Centrifugal clutch (ANSWER 5)
o Fast and Loose pulley drive(w18)

Ans. Fast and Loose pulley drive:

12. Transmission of Motion and Power

1. Compare belt drive, chain drive and gear drive.

(W18,W20,S20,W21)
Ans.
2. Explain types of Belt Drives(W21)

Ans.
Open belt drive
This type of belt drive is used to transmit power when
two parallel shaft rotating is same direction. The
portion of belt having high tension called tight side
and portion of belt having less tension will be slack
side.

Cross belt drive

This drive transmits power when shafts are parallel but
rotate in opposite direction. This type of drive should
be used for large distance between two shafts and for
lower speed.

Quarter turn belt drive

The quarter turn belt drive is also known as right
angle belt drive. It is used to transmit power between
two shafts at right angle. When the reverse motion is
desired this arrangement is not suitable.

Belt drive with Idler pulley

After long time of running the length of belt may be
increases, so angle of contact decreased. To increase
it, it is required to increase tension. To increase
tension in belt, Idler pulley is used.

Fast and Loose pulley drive

This drive is used when it is need to start or stop
driven shaft without stopping driver shaft. The pulley
which is keyed to driven shaft is called fast pulley and
a loose pulley runs freely over the machine shaft and
not transmitting any power. When the driven shaft is
required to be stopped, belt is pushed on loose pulley
by sliding bar.

Stepped or Cone pulley drive

A stepped or cone pulley drive used where different
speed are required at driven shaft while driving shaft
runs at constant speed.

Compound belt drive

A compound belt drive is used when large speed ratio
required and there is large center distance between
two shafts. As shown in figure power is transmitted
from pulley 1 to pulley 4 through intermediate pulley
2 and 3.

3. Describe briefly using neat diagrams the types of

belt drives. (W19)

Ans. SAME AS ANSWER 2

4. Define the velocity ratio of pulleys and discuss the

effect of slip and creep on Motion transmission.
(S19, S20)

Ans.
 Velocity ratio:

 The velocity ratio of a belt drive is defined as the

ratio of the speed of the driven pulley to the speed
of the driving pulley.

Effect of slip on transmission:

 Result of belt slipping is to reduce the velocity ratio

of the system and decrease in efficiency of
transmission.

Effect of creep on transmission:

 When the belt passes from slack side to tight side, a

certain portion of the belt extends and it contracts
again when the belt passes from tight sight to slack
side.
 Due to these changes in length, there is a relative
motion between the belt and the pulley surfaces.
This relative motion is called as creep.
 The total effect of creep is to reduce slightly the
speed of the driven pulley or follower.

5. Define pitch circle, diametral pitch, addendum, and

dedendum using neat Sketch. (S19)

Ans.
Pitch circle: It is an imaginary circle passing through
the teeth of a gearwheel, concentric with the
gearwheel, and having a radius that would enable it to
be in contact with a similar circle around
a mating gearwheel.

Diametral pitch: It is the ratio equal to the pitch

diameter of a gear in inches divided by the number of
teeth in the gear.

Addendum: It is the radial distance from the pitch

circle of a cogwheel or worm wheel to the crests of
the teeth or ridges.
 Dedendum: It is the radial distance from the pitch
circle of a cogwheel or worm wheel to the bottom of
the tooth space or groove.

13. Engineering Materials

1. Define the following mechanical properties: (1)

Elasticity (2) Malleability (3) Ductility (4) Stiffness (5)
 Hardness (6) Toughness (7) Resilience. (W19, S19,
S20, W21)

Ans.
Elasticity: Elasticity is the ability of a body to resist a
distorting influence and to return to its original size
and shape when that influence, or force is removed.

Malleability: Malleability is a property of a material

by which it can be beaten to form thin sheets.

Ductility: Ductility is the capacity of a material to

deform permanently (e.g., stretch, bend, or spread)
in response to stress.

Stiffness: Stiffness is the extent to which an object

resists deformation in response to an applied force.

Hardness: Hardness is a measure of the resistance

to localized plastic deformation, such as an
indentation or a scratch, induced mechanically
either by pressing or abrasion.

Toughness: Toughness is the ability of a material to

absorb energy and plastically deform without
fracturing.

Resilience: Resilience is the ability to absorb or

avoid damage without suffering complete
 failure and is an objective of design, maintenance
and restoration for buildings and infrastructure, as
well as communities.

2. Define ferrous and Nonferrous material with

examples. (W21)

Ans.
Ferrous material: Ferrous metals are metals that
contain iron as the primary element, such as stainless
steel. They are known for their mechanical properties,
such as high tensile strength. They are also magnetic
and can be easily shaped or formed.

Some common examples of ferrous metals

include carbon steel, stainless steel, cast
iron and wrought iron.

Nonferrous material: Non-ferrous metals or alloys are

defined as materials that are not iron based like their
ferrous counterparts. Common non-ferrous metals
include copper, aluminium, and lead.
3. Discuss the following with application and
Properties:
o Glass

o Ceramic

o Plastics (w18, S20)

Ans:
 Glass

 This is a hardwearing, abrasion-resistant material

with excellent weathering properties.
 It is used for electrical insulators, laboratory
equipment, and optical components in measuring
instruments and, in the form of fibers, is used to
reinforce plastics.
 It is made by melting together the naturally
occurring materials: silica (sand), limestone (calcium
carbonate) and soda (sodium carbonate).

Ceramic

 These are produced by baking naturally occurring

clays at high temperatures after molding to shape.
 They are used for high – voltage insulators and high
– temperature – resistant cutting tool tips.

Plastics

 Plastics are generally low cost, easy to manufacture,

durable, strong for their weight, electrically and
thermally insulative, and resistant to shock,
corrosion, chemicals, and water.
 It is used in numerous packaging applications
including containers, bottles, drums, trays, boxes,
cups and vending packaging, baby products and
protection packaging.
4. How are metals classified? Show with block diagram
(W18, S20)
Ans:

5. List and explain the physical, thermal, mechanical,

and electrical properties of Metals. (W20)

Ans.
Mechanical Properties:
The mechanical properties of metal indicate the
nature of its inherent behaviour under the action of
external force. Or, we can say mechanical properties
are the properties of the metal which are associated
with its ability to resist failure under the action of
external forces. Some of the most important
Mechanical properties of the metal are as follows:

 Elasticity
 Plasticity
 Ductility
 Brittleness
 Hardness
 Toughness
 Stiffness
 Creep

Electrical Properties:
The most important electrical properties of
metals are conductivity, Resistivity, and dielectric
strength.

Conductivity: The conductivity may be defined as

the electrical property of the metal which allows the
flow of electric current.

Resistivity: Resistivity may be defined as the

Electrical property of the metal by which it impedes
or resists the flow of electric current.
 Dielectric strength: The minimum voltage that can
be applied to the insulating material which results in
the destruction of the insulating properties of the
material is defined as the dielectric strength.

Thermal properties:
The thermal properties of the metals are the
characteristics of the metal which are influenced by
the application of heat.

For example, when metals are heated, they observe

the heat energy resulting in the change of
dimension, the flow of heat from the higher
temperature region to the load temperature
region, liquefaction of metals from the solid state
when temperatures are raised beyond the melting
point, electrical conductivity, etc.

Physical properties:
Physical properties of metals are:

 Metals are malleable and ductile.

 Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity.
 Metals are lustrous (shiny) and can be polished.
 Metals are solids at room temperature (except
mercury, which is liquid).
 Metals are tough and strong.

6. List properties of copper and its applications. (W20)

Ans.

Important uses of Copper:

 Copper sulphate is used widely as an agricultural

poison and as an algicide in water purification.
 While one may not consider copper being used for
something other than coins, it is a crucial element in
the creation of bronze.
 Historically, copper was the first metal to be worked
by people. The discovery that it could be hardened
with a little tin to form the alloy bronze gave the
name to the Bronze Age.
 It is used for a whole range of goods, from cans,
cooking foil and saucepans through to electricity
cables, planes, and space vehicles.
 Electrical conductivity is especially important
because wire accounts for more than 50% of copper
consumption worldwide.
 Chemical vapour deposition, which is used in
semiconductor manufacture, involves the
deposition of thin copper films from a gas- phase
precursor.
 Copper is used largely as an alloy of gold and silver,
and it is often plated with one or the other.
The main properties of copper are:

 High electrical conductivity.

 High ductility.
 Good heat conductivity.
 Corrosion resistance.
 Good machinability.
 Antimicrobial properties/biofouling resistance.
 Non-magnetic.