IST Tool and Equipment Usage 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the term 'kerf' refer to when cutting material?
- The angle of a cutting blade
- The width of material removed by a cutting tool (Correct answer)
- The hardness rating of a saw blade
- The feed rate of a cutting operation
Correct answer: The width of material removed by a cutting tool
Kerf is the width of the slot cut by a saw blade or cutting tool — the material consumed in the cutting process.
Question 2: What is the correct way to store cutting tools such as chisels and drill bits?
- Loosely together in a metal toolbox drawer
- In a rack or roll where cutting edges are protected (Correct answer)
- Hanging on magnetic strips with edges exposed
- Wrapped in oiled cloth in airtight containers only
Correct answer: In a rack or roll where cutting edges are protected
Cutting tools should be stored in a rack, roll, or individual holders to protect their edges and prevent accidental injury.
Question 3: When using a micrometer, what is the typical measuring resolution?
- 0.1 inch
- 0.01 inch
- 0.001 inch (Correct answer)
- 0.0001 inch
Correct answer: 0.001 inch
A standard outside micrometer measures to a resolution of 0.001 inch (one thousandth of an inch).
Question 4: What is the primary function of a dial indicator in industrial work?
- To measure electrical current in motors
- To measure small variations in position or surface runout (Correct answer)
- To test the hardness of steel components
- To calibrate digital measuring instruments
Correct answer: To measure small variations in position or surface runout
A dial indicator measures small amounts of movement or variation in position, commonly used for runout, alignment, and deflection checks.
Question 5: What does the 'TPI' marking on a saw blade indicate?
- Total Power Index — the blade's maximum cutting power
- Teeth Per Inch — the number of cutting teeth per inch of blade (Correct answer)
- Tensile Pull Index — blade tension rating
- Torque Per Inch — the required drive torque
Correct answer: Teeth Per Inch — the number of cutting teeth per inch of blade
TPI stands for Teeth Per Inch; higher TPI blades produce smoother cuts, while lower TPI blades cut faster and remove more material.
Question 6: Which type of pliers is specifically designed to hold, cut, and crimp wire?
- Slip-joint pliers
- Needle-nose pliers
- Lineman's pliers (Correct answer)
- Locking pliers (Vise-Grips)
Correct answer: Lineman's pliers
Lineman's pliers (electrician's pliers) are designed with a gripping area, cutting notch, and crimping capability for electrical wire work.
IST Tool and Equipment Usage 3
What does the term 'kerf' refer to when cutting material?