GATE ME 2017 Set 2 — Question 20

MCQ+1 / -0.33EasyNon-Traditional MachiningMachining & Machine ToolsManufacturing Processes

Manufacturing Processes → Machining & Machine Tools → Non-Traditional Machining

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

Which one of the following statements is TRUE for the ultrasonic machining (USM) process?

Correct answer(D) USM often uses a slurry comprising abrasive-particles and water.SolutionLet's analyze the statements regarding Ultrasonic Machining (USM):(A) False: In USM, the tool vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies, typically between 20 kHz and 40 kHz. Subsonic frequencies are below the audible range (less than 20 Hz).(B) False: USM systems utilize transducers to convert high-frequency electrical signals into mechanical vibrations. These transducers are typically either magnetostrictive or piezoelectric.(C) False: USM is best suited for machining hard and brittle materials (e.g., glass, ceramics, quartz). It is inefficient for ductile materials because they tend to deform plastically rather than fracturing under the impact of abrasive grains.(D) True: USM involves a vibrating tool that hammers abrasive particles (contained in a slurry of water or oil) against the workpiece surface to erode material. The slurry also helps in cooling and flushing away debris.Therefore, statement (D) is the only true statement.Turn this into a strength.Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

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Correct answer(D) USM often uses a slurry comprising abrasive-particles and water.SolutionLet's analyze the statements regarding Ultrasonic Machining (USM):(A) False: In USM, the tool vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies, typically between 20 kHz and 40 kHz. Subsonic frequencies are below the audible range (less than 20 Hz).(B) False: USM systems utilize transducers to convert high-frequency electrical signals into mechanical vibrations. These transducers are typically either magnetostrictive or piezoelectric.(C) False: USM is best suited for machining hard and brittle materials (e.g., glass, ceramics, quartz). It is inefficient for ductile materials because they tend to deform plastically rather than fracturing under the impact of abrasive grains.(D) True: USM involves a vibrating tool that hammers abrasive particles (contained in a slurry of water or oil) against the workpiece surface to erode material. The slurry also helps in cooling and flushing away debris.Therefore, statement (D) is the only true statement.

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