Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) Practice Exam

Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) Practice Exam

The Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) is a professional responsible for conducting inspections under the guidance of quality engineers, supervisors, or technicians. Equipped with skills and techniques outlined in the CQI Body of Knowledge, a Quality Inspector assesses hardware documentation, performs laboratory tests, inspects products, evaluates process performance, documents findings, and compiles formal reports.

Exam Requirements

The Candidates must have - 

• Two years of full-time work experience in mechanical inspection or a related field, OR
• Completion of an ASQ-approved accredited technical or apprenticeship training course.
• Note: Those without a high school diploma or GED will require three additional years of work experience.

Exam Details

• Exam Type: Multiple-choice questions 
• Computer-Based: One-part, 110 questions (100 scored, 10 unscored). Exam duration: 4 hours and 18 minutes.
• Paper and Pencil: One-part, 100 questions over a four-hour period.

Course Outline

The Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) Exam covers the following topics - 

Domain 1 - Understand Technical Mathematics (19 Questions)

• Basic Shop Math: Solve fundamental shop math challenges involving operations with fractions and decimals, including square roots and truncation/rounding methods for significant digits. (Application Level)
• Basic Algebra: Simplify or solve single-variable, first-degree equations. (Application Level)
• Basic Geometry: Calculate area, perimeter, volume, and other measurements for basic geometric forms, including complementary and supplementary angles. (Application Level)
• Basic Trigonometry: Determine angles and lengths using sine, cosine, tangent, and the Pythagorean theorem. (Application Level)
• Measurement Systems: Convert units between English and metric (SI) measurement systems, such as inches to micrometers and liters to quarts. (Application Level)
• Numeric Conversions: Work with different numeric forms, including scientific notation and fractions, converting between these formats as needed. (Application Level)

Domain 2 - Understand Metrology (26 Questions)

A. Common Gauges and Measurement Instruments: Identify and use different types of gauges:

• 1. Variable Gauges: Micrometers, calipers, and dial indicators, including CMMs.
• 2. Attribute Gauges: Thread plugs, progressive rings, and radius gauges.
• 3. Transfer Gauges: Small-hole and telescoping gauges.
• 4. Measurement Scales: Differentiate between dial, digital, and vernier scales. (Application and Recall Levels)

B. Special Gauges and Applications: Recognize electronic, automatic, pneumatic, and environmental gauging tools. (Recall Level)

C. Gauge Selection, Handling, and Use: Understand the 10:1 rule, choose appropriate gauges, and apply proper handling and storage methods. Establish correlations between measurement tools. (Application Level)

D. Surface Plate Tools and Techniques: Use surface plate equipment like height gauges and angle measurement instruments. (Application Level)

E. Specialized Inspection Equipment: Describe and apply tools for measuring mass, finish, shape, optical characteristics, and software-based measurement. (Application Level)

F. Calibration: Outline calibration system principles, standards traceability, and the influence of environmental factors on calibration. Address out-of-calibration impacts. (Application and Recall Levels)

G. Measurement System Analysis (MSA): Understand key MSA concepts including bias, stability, and repeatability. (Recall Level)

Domain 3 - Understand Inspection and Test (33 Questions)

• Blueprints, Drawings, GD&T, and Model-Based Definitions: Interpret blueprints and engineering drawings, calculate tolerances, and determine part alignment using datum structures. (Analysis Level)
• Sampling: Define sampling terms such as AQL, random sampling, and sampling plans. (Application Level)
• Inspection Planning and Processes: Differentiate inspection types, identify inspection errors, and apply product traceability methods. Classify nonconforming material and assign severity levels to defects. (Application Level)
• Testing Methods: Understand nondestructive, destructive, functionality, and hardness testing techniques. (Application Level)
• Software for Test Equipment: Identify tools and processes for verifying the performance of test software. (Recall Level)

Domain 4 - Understand Quality Assurance (22 Questions)

• Basic Statistics and Applications: Calculate mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, and display data with charts. Understand normal distribution characteristics. (Application and Understanding Levels)
• Statistical Process Control (SPC): Distinguish between causes of variation, analyze control limits, and utilize charts for data interpretation. Conduct process capability analyses. (Evaluation and Application Levels)
• Quality Improvement: Define quality concepts such as TQM and understand the impact of product design and manufacturing processes on quality. (Understanding Level)
• Quality Audits: Outline audit types, stages, tools, and effective communication techniques. Explain how CARs can improve quality. (Understanding Level)
• Quality Tools and Techniques: Apply various quality tools like Pareto charts, flowcharts, and histograms in quality management. (Application Level)
• Problem-Solving Tools and Continuous Improvement Techniques: Apply methodologies such as PDCA, 5 Whys, Six Sigma DMAIC, and lean tools for continuous improvement. (Application Level)
• Resources: Identify environmental and safety resources essential to quality assurance tasks.