Top 10 Questions for Surface Plate Finisher Interview

1. What are the different types of surface plate finishes and which one is the most common?

There are three main types of surface plate finishes: scraped, ground, and lapped. Scraped surfaces are created by hand and are the most accurate, but also the most expensive. Ground surfaces are created by machine and are less accurate than scraped surfaces, but also less expensive. Lapped surfaces are created by hand and are the most accurate, but also the most expensive.

The most common type of surface plate finish is ground.

2. What are the different methods used to measure the flatness and parallelism of a surface plate?

Flatness

• Autocollimator
• Straight edge
• Micrometer

Parallelism

• Dial indicator
• Straight edge
• Interferometer

3. What are the different types of materials used to make surface plates?

• Granite
• Cast iron
• Ceramic
• Steel
• Glass

4. What are the different components of a surface plate?

• Base
• Table
• Legs
• Leveling screws
• Measuring tools

5. What are the different factors that can affect the accuracy of a surface plate?

• Flatness
• Parallelism
• Temperature
• Vibration
• Wear and tear

6. What are the different methods used to calibrate a surface plate?

• Autocollimator
• Straight edge
• Dial indicator
• Interferometer
• Laser

7. What are the different applications of surface plates?

• Inspection
• Layout
• Assembly
• Testing
• Calibration

8. What are the different safety precautions that should be taken when using a surface plate?

• Wear safety glasses
• Do not place hands or fingers under the table
• Do not use the surface plate as a step
• Do not drop heavy objects on the surface plate
• Do not use the surface plate as a cutting board

9. What are the different maintenance procedures that should be performed on a surface plate?

• Clean the surface plate regularly
• Lubricate the leveling screws
• Calibrate the surface plate regularly
• Inspect the surface plate for damage
• Repair or replace the surface plate if necessary

10. What are the different skills and qualifications that are required to be a surface plate finisher?

• Knowledge of surface plate finishing techniques
• Experience in using surface plate finishing equipment
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints
• Attention to detail
• Patience
• Precision

Surface Plate Finishers are responsible for preparing metal surfaces for painting, plating, or other finishing operations. This involves using a variety of hand and power tools to remove burrs, scratches, and other imperfections from the surface of the metal.

1. Inspect Raw Materials

Inspect raw materials to ensure they meet specifications and are free of defects.

• Check for any scratches, dents, or other surface imperfections.
• Verify the dimensions and shape of the materials.

2. Remove Burrs and Rough Edges

Remove burrs and rough edges from the edges of the metal using a variety of tools, such as files, sanders, or grinders.

• Use a file to remove any sharp edges or burrs from the metal.
• Use a sander to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections.
• Use a grinder to remove any excess material or to shape the metal.

3. Clean and Polish the Surface

Clean and polish the surface of the metal to remove any dirt, oil, or other contaminants.

• Use a degreaser to remove any oil or grease from the surface of the metal.
• Use a polishing compound to polish the surface of the metal to a smooth, shiny finish.

4. Prepare the Surface for Painting or Plating

Prepare the surface of the metal for painting or plating by applying a primer or other coating.

• Apply a primer to the surface of the metal to help the paint or plating to adhere.
• Apply a topcoat of paint or plating to the surface of the metal to protect it from corrosion or wear.

Preparing for an interview can be daunting, but it is essential for showcasing your skills and knowledge. Here are some tips to help you ace your interview for a Surface Plate Finisher position:

1. Research the Company and the Position

Before the interview, take some time to research the company and the specific position you are applying for. This will help you understand the company’s culture, values, and expectations.

• Visit the company’s website to learn about its history, products, and services.
• Read any news articles or press releases about the company to get a sense of its recent developments.
• Check out the company’s social media pages to see what kind of content they are sharing.

2. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions

There are some common interview questions that you are likely to be asked, such as “Tell me about yourself” or “Why are you interested in this position?” It is helpful to practice answering these questions in advance so that you can deliver your responses confidently and concisely.

• Prepare a brief introduction of yourself that highlights your skills and experience.
• Come up with a few reasons why you are interested in the position and why you think you are a good fit for the company.
• Practice answering questions about your strengths and weaknesses.

3. Be Prepared to Talk About Your Experience

In the interview, be prepared to talk about your experience as a Surface Plate Finisher. This includes discussing your skills, knowledge, and accomplishments.

• Highlight your experience in removing burrs and rough edges from metal surfaces.
• Explain your knowledge of different surface preparation techniques.
• Share any examples of projects that you have worked on that demonstrate your skills as a Surface Plate Finisher.

4. Dress Professionally and Arrive on Time

First impressions matter, so it is important to dress professionally for your interview. You should also arrive on time for your interview to show that you are respectful of the interviewer’s time.

• Wear a suit or business casual attire to the interview.
• Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed.
• Arrive for your interview at least 10 minutes early.