Alkem Laboratories Graduate Apprenticeship Trainee Interview Questions and Answers

My favorite chemical engineering subject is process design.

• I enjoy the challenge of designing efficient and cost-effective processes.

• I find it fascinating to optimize the use of resources and minimize waste.

• Examples of process design projects I have worked on include designing a distillation column for separating azeotropic mixtures and optimizing a chemical reaction for maximum yield.

Distillation is a process of separating components of a mixture based on their boiling points.

• It involves heating the mixture to vaporize the component with the lowest boiling point.

• The vapor is then condensed and collected as a separate liquid.

• Types of distillation include simple distillation, fractional distillation, and steam distillation.

• Simple distillation is used for separating liquids with a large difference in ...read more

Scale-up refers to the process of increasing the production capacity of a product or service.

• Scale-up involves expanding the production capacity of a product or service to meet increasing demand.

• It can involve changes to manufacturing processes, equipment, and facilities.

• Examples of scale-up include increasing the number of employees, adding new production lines, and expanding into new markets.

• Scale-up is often a criti...read more

To calculate no of trays in distillation column, use McCabe-Thiele method or Fenske equation.

• Determine the desired purity of the distillate

• Calculate the number of theoretical trays using McCabe-Thiele method or Fenske equation

• Account for efficiency and other factors to determine actual number of trays needed

Affinity law relates to the relationship between flow rate, pressure, and speed of a pump.

• Affinity law states that the flow rate of a pump is directly proportional to its speed.

• It also states that the pressure generated by a pump is proportional to the square of its speed.

• Affinity law is used to predict the performance of a pump at different speeds.

• For example, if a pump is running at 50% of its maximum speed, the flow...read more

To increase flow rate in a centrifugal pump, increase impeller speed, reduce discharge head, or increase impeller diameter.

• Increase impeller speed by adjusting motor speed or using a larger motor

• Reduce discharge head by opening valves or reducing pipe friction

• Increase impeller diameter by replacing impeller or using a pump with a larger impeller

• Ensure pump is properly primed and not clogged

• Consider the limitations of t

A vacuum pump is operated by creating a vacuum in a closed system to remove air or gas molecules.

• The pump creates a low-pressure area in the system, causing air or gas to be drawn in and removed.

• There are different types of vacuum pumps, including rotary vane pumps, diaphragm pumps, and scroll pumps.

• The pump may be powered by electricity, compressed air, or a hand crank.

• Vacuum pumps are used in a variety of industries,...read more

I am a motivated and enthusiastic individual with a passion for learning and personal development.

• I have recently graduated with a degree in Computer Science and have completed several internships in the field.

• I am a quick learner and enjoy taking on new challenges.

• In my free time, I enjoy reading and practicing yoga to maintain a healthy work-life balance.