CAM Important Questions | Unit-wise R23 Exam Guide
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is an essential subject for mechanical engineering students, especially in the R23 regulation. CAM helps engineers understand how machining processes, CNC programming, tool paths, automation, robotics, and manufacturing systems are controlled using computers. This blog provides CAM important questions, organized unit-wise, with clear theory and numerical/problem-oriented questions. The goal is to help students prepare quickly, focus on exam-oriented concepts, and score high in Power Plant Engineering.
CAM Important Questions for R23 JNTU Students (Unit-Wise)
UNIT 1 – Introduction to CAM & Manufacturing Systems
Key Theory Questions
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What is CAM and how does it support modern manufacturing?
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Describe the differences between CAD and CAM.
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What are the advantages of CAM in automated production?
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Explain the components of a typical CAM system.
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What is a manufacturing system? Explain its types.
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Describe the concept of Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS).
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What is CIM? Explain its applications in industries.
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Explain the role of computers in manufacturing decision-making.
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What is the importance of automation in CAM?
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Describe different types of automation used in production.
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What is group technology?
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Explain the role of coding systems in CAM.
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What is production planning and control in CAM?
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Describe classification of manufacturing processes.
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What are the challenges in implementing CAM in industries?
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What is distributed numerical control?
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What is process planning?
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Describe direct and indirect computer control.
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What is the impact of CAM on product quality?
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Explain the architecture of a modern CAM system.
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What is part programming?
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Describe the significance of database management in CAM.
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What is the relationship between CAM and Industry 4.0?
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Describe automated material handling systems.
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What are the limitations of CAM?
UNIT 2 – CNC Machines & Part Programming
Key Theory Questions
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What is CNC? Explain its working principle.
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Describe different types of CNC machines.
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What is the structure of a CNC control unit?
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Explain G-codes and M-codes with examples.
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What is manual part programming?
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Describe the process of tool selection in CNC machining.
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What is interpolation? Explain its types.
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Define tool path and its importance in part programming.
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What is canned cycle?
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Explain turning operations in CNC.
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What is spindle speed and feed rate?
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Describe linear and circular interpolation.
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What are coordinate systems used in CNC?
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What is tool offset?
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Explain adaptive control.
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What are the advantages of CNC over conventional machines?
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Describe the process of programming for drilling cycles.
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What is tool compensation?
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What is the difference between absolute and incremental programming?
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What is backlash and how does CNC compensate for it?
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Explain the importance of simulation in CNC.
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What is post-processing in CAM?
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Explain CNC program structure with an example.
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Describe machining time calculation.
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What is a machining centre?
Numerical Focus Question
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Write a simple part program for turning a 30 mm diameter bar to 25 mm for 40 mm length.
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Write a CNC drilling cycle program using G82 for 4 holes.
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Calculate machining time for a turning operation.
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Calculate feed rate for a milling tool of diameter 15 mm.
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Find the tool path for circular interpolation (CW).
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Convert absolute coordinates to incremental coordinates.
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Calculate spindle RPM for given cutting speed.
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Write a part program for facing and grooving.
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Create a CNC program for pocket milling.
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Find cycle time for drilling operations.
UNIT 3 – Tooling, Cutting Mechanics & Machining Parameters
Key Theory Questions
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What is a cutting tool? Explain tool materials.
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Describe single-point and multi-point cutting tools.
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What is tool wear and tool life?
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Explain Taylor’s tool life equation.
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What are cutting fluids?
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Explain chip formation in machining.
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What is cutting speed, feed, and depth of cut?
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What are tool signatures?
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Explain machinability.
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What is high-speed machining?
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Describe tool holding devices.
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Explain tool geometry and chip-breakers.
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What factors affect surface finish?
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Describe tool failure modes.
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What is chatter in machining?
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Explain machining time estimation.
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What is the role of CAM in optimizing machining parameters?
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Explain hard machining.
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What are coated tools?
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What is wear resistance and toughness?
Numerical Focus Question
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Calculate cutting speed for given tool and material.
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Estimate machining time for milling operation.
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Find tool life using Taylor’s equation.
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Calculate metal removal rate.
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Compute machining power required.
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Determine chip reduction coefficient.
UNIT 4 – Robotics, Automation & Material Handling
Key Theory Questions
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What is industrial robotics?
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Explain types of robots used in manufacturing.
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What is robot configuration?
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Describe robot joints (prismatic, revolute, etc.).
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What are robot end-effectors?
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Explain grippers and their types.
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What are sensors in robotics?
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Describe robot applications in CAM.
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Explain AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles).
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What is material handling?
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Describe automated storage and retrieval systems.
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What is FMS?
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Explain layout planning in automation systems.
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What is the role of CAM in robotics?
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What is PLC and how is it used?
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Describe robot programming methods.
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What is workspace and reach?
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Explain pick-and-place robots.
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What is robot accuracy and repeatability?
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What are safety issues in robot-operated systems?
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Describe collaborative robots.
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What is industrial automation hierarchy?
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Explain the importance of automation in quality improvement.
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What is the relationship between CAM and robotics?
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Explain 3D vision systems in automation.
UNIT 5 – CAM in Manufacturing & Future Technologies
Key Theory Questions
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What are CAM applications in industries?
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Describe CAM in automotive manufacturing.
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What is additive manufacturing?
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Explain rapid prototyping.
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What is hybrid manufacturing?
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Describe CAM in tool and die making.
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What is digital manufacturing?
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What is cloud-based CAM?
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Explain Industry 4.0 in manufacturing.
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What is digital twin?
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Describe the concept of smart factories.
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Explain CAM in CNC simulation.
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What is process optimization?
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Describe CAM in sheet metal production.
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What is agile manufacturing?
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What is MES (Manufacturing Execution System)?
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Explain robotics integration with CAM.
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What are CAM software systems (Mastercam, NX CAM)?
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Describe CAM-based automation advantages.
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What is the future of CAM in mechanical engineering?
Preparation Tips for CAM
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Understand CNC basics clearly.
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Practice part programming daily.
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Revise all CAM important questions before exams.
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Learn G-codes and M-codes thoroughly.
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Solve machining time numericals regularly.
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Watch CNC simulation videos for better understanding.
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Study tooling, parameters, and machining concepts carefully.
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Revise automation and robotics concepts every week.
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Go through previous year question papers.
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Try writing your own part programs for practice.
Conclusion
CAM is a scoring and highly practical subject that builds the foundation for modern manufacturing. With consistent practice, understanding of CNC, machining, automation, and robotics, students can master the subject easily. The above CAM important questions cover unit-wise theory, programming, and numerical concepts from the R23 syllabus, helping students prepare confidently for examinations and future industry skills.
