Most of the candidates were comfortable with parts (a) and (c) of the question but part (b) seems not very clear to them.

The required response for part (b)(i) is:

the advantages of using cast iron for the construction of the frame of a lathe machine are:

1. relatively cheap to use;
2. suitable for moulding;
3. damps out vibration;
4. strong in compression, and
5. easy to machine.

Candidates were required to state any one of the above mentioned advantages.  The disadvantages of using cast iron for the construction of the frame of a lathe machine are:

1. very weak in tension;
2. very brittle and prone to chipping, and
3. difficult to forge.

The required response to part (b)(i) is:
the advantage of using mild steel for the construction of the frame of a lathe machine are:

1. suitable for making fabricated frames
2. increased strength and more rigid, and
3. easily formed by forging and machining.

The disadvantages includes

1. prone to chatter and vibration;
2. resonance of metal plate;
3. thermal effect;
4. poor corrosion resistance and
5. electrical effect.

Candidates were required to state one advantage and one disadvantage of using mild steel for the construction of the frame of a lathe machine.