Systems & Control: Mechanisms, Hydraulics & Pneumatics
Systems & Control: Mechanisms, Hydraulics & Pneumatics is one of 9 topics in the Grade 12 Mechanical Technology CAPS syllabus, covered across 3 lessons on Study Vault. Below are real practice questions from this topic with full worked answers.
Sample practice questions
Easy
1. What key advantage does a gear drive have over a belt drive?
Precise, positive engagement with no slip
Ability to absorb shock loads better than a rigid mesh
Quieter running than a gear drive
Lower manufacturing accuracy requirements
Answer: Precise, positive engagement with no slip — A gear drive transmits motion through directly meshing teeth, giving precise, positive engagement with no slip, unlike a belt drive which relies on friction and can slip slightly.
Easy
2. What is a key advantage of a belt drive over a rigid gear drive under sudden overload?
It absorbs shock loads better, since some slip can occur, protecting other components
It always transmits more power than a gear drive
It never requires tension adjustment
It gives more precise, positive engagement than a gear drive
Answer: It absorbs shock loads better, since some slip can occur, protecting other components — A belt drive can absorb shock loads better than a rigid gear mesh, since some slip can occur under sudden overload, protecting other components in the system.
Medium
3. Name the drive system that uses a roller chain engaging sprocket teeth, giving a positive, non-slip connection while allowing shafts to be positioned further apart than a gear drive allows.
Answer: chain drive — A chain drive gives a positive, non-slip connection (like a gear drive) while allowing greater shaft separation (like a belt drive), combining advantages of both.
