ASME Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ASME facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In ASME B31.3, 'High Pressure' (HP) fluid service requires examination to which standard? → K-type joints examined per Appendix K
2. Which ASME A17.1 code section governs moving walks (horizontal escalators)? → Part 6
3. Under ASME Section XI, what is the purpose of 'inservice inspection' (ISI) of nuclear components? → To detect and evaluate degradation of pressure-retaining components during operation
4. What does ASME A17.1 require regarding the 'comb-plate' of an escalator? → It must mesh with the step grooves and be designed to deflect if an obstruction is caught
5. Under ASME B31 codes, what does 'MAWP' stand for? → Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
6. In mechanical power transmission, what is the 'pitch circle' of a gear? → The circle passing through the teeth contact point during meshing
7. Under ASME Y14.5, what is a 'basic dimension'? → A theoretically exact value from which toleranced dimensions are established
8. Square wave refers to the ____________. → shape of the output power
9. Under ASME power transmission standards, what is the purpose of a 'service factor' for chain drives? → To modify the rated chain load capacity for the type of driven load and power source
10. In GD&T, 'Rule #1' (the Envelope Principle) states that: → A perfect-form envelope at MMC must not be violated
11. Under ASME A17.1, how often must an elevator safety device (car safety) be tested? → Every 5 years with load test
12. According to ASME B30.5 for mobile cranes, which condition triggers mandatory inspection of the load line? → After any occurrence that could have caused damage, such as a shock load
13. According to ASME B30.9, what is the minimum design factor (safety factor) required for wire rope slings? → 5:1
14. According to ASME B30.20, what information must be permanently marked on below-the-hook lifting devices? → Manufacturer name, rated load capacity, and weight of the device
15. Under ASME B18.25 and standard practice, what is the primary advantage of a 'splined' shaft-hub connection over a keyed connection? → Splines distribute torque over multiple teeth, reducing stress concentration
16. Which ASME NQA-1 requirement addresses the procurement of nuclear-grade materials and components from suppliers? → Requirement 7 — Control of Purchased Items and Services
17. In ASME piping, what is the purpose of the 'stress intensification factor' (SIF)? → To account for increased stress at fittings and bends compared to straight pipe
18. What is meant by "inspection" according to the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code? → Examination or assessment to check compliance with regulations or standards
19. What does 'N-stamp' certification indicate for a nuclear component manufacturer? → The manufacturer is authorized by ASME to fabricate nuclear components per Section III
20. In V-belt drive design per ASME/RMA standards, what does 'effective tension' represent? → The difference between tight-side and slack-side tension, equal to the transmitted force
21. What is a "steam boiler"? → A boiler in which steam is generated
22. In ASME piping codes, what does the term 'design pressure' represent? → The most severe coincident pressure and temperature expected during normal operation
23. What is the advantage of helical gears over spur gears for high-speed power transmission? → Helical gears have higher contact ratio, providing smoother and quieter operation
24. Which ASME B31 code covers liquid pipeline transportation systems? → B31.4
25. What is the difference between back and backing welds? → Sequence of when the welds are made
26. In a keyed shaft-hub connection, what type of key is designed to prevent axial movement of the hub in addition to transmitting torque? → Woodruff key
27. Per ASME B30.9, what condition requires a wire rope sling to be immediately removed from service? → Evidence of kinking, crushing, birdcaging, or core protrusion
28. If the weld does not combine with another weld or the base metal it is referred to as: → incomplete fusion
29. What does 'AGMA Quality Number' indicate for gears? → The accuracy level of the gear geometry, with higher numbers indicating tighter tolerances
30. For two gears to mesh correctly, which parameter must be equal for both gears? → Pressure angle and diametral pitch (or module)