Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards
7 cards from real CLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of a Weibull analysis in lubrication engineering research?
Answer: To statistically model bearing or component failure probability over time
Weibull analysis is used to model failure distributions and predict reliability metrics such as B10 bearing life.
When a CLS implements a lubrication improvement based on published research, which step ensures the practice is appropriate for the specific application?
Answer: Critically appraising the study and validating applicability to local conditions before full implementation
Evidence-based practice requires critical appraisal and contextual validation before adopting findings from external research.
In oil analysis research, what does an elevated iron (Fe) concentration trend most likely indicate?
Answer: Ferrous wear from steel components
Elevated and increasing iron concentration in used oil samples typically indicates wear of ferrous (steel or cast iron) components.
A researcher wants to determine whether synthetic lubricant extends gear life compared to mineral oil. Which outcome measure provides the most quantitative evidence?
Answer: Measured gear surface roughness change and statistical comparison of failure times
Quantitative, measurable outcomes such as surface roughness and statistically analyzed failure times provide the strongest evidence for performance comparisons.
Which principle of evidence-based practice is demonstrated when a CLS requires data from multiple independent studies before changing a lubricant specification?
Answer: Systematic evidence synthesis and replication requirement
Requiring replication across independent studies reflects evidence synthesis, a core principle of evidence-based practice.
What is the key difference between an ASTM test method and an OEM lubrication specification?
Answer: ASTM methods define standardized measurement procedures; OEM specifications define performance requirements for a specific machine
ASTM methods standardize how properties are measured, while OEM specs state the required performance thresholds for specific equipment.
In a tribology study, what does the 'coefficient of friction (COF)' data directly measure?
Answer: The ratio of frictional force to normal load between sliding surfaces
The coefficient of friction is the dimensionless ratio of friction force to the perpendicular normal force pressing surfaces together.