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CIVIL Engineering Interview

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1. What is Civil Engineering ?
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Civil engineering is arguably the oldest engineering discipline. It
deals with the designed setting and may be dated to the primary
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time somebody placed a roof over his or her head or set a stalk
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across a stream to form it easier to urge across.
Offers you a great
collection of
The designed setting encompasses abundant of what defines
semiconductor
fashionable civilization. Buildings and bridges area unit usually the
datasheet.
primary constructions that come back to mind, as they’re the
foremost conspicuous creations of structural engineering, one in
every of civil engineering’s major sub-disciplines. Roads, railroads,
subway systems, and airports area unit designed by transportation
engineers, another class of engineering. so there area unit the less OPEN
visible creations of civil engineers. each time you open a water tap,
you expect water to return out, doltishly that civil engineers created
it attainable. the big apple town has one in every of the world’s most
spectacular water system systems, receiving billions of gallons of
high-quality water from the mountain chain over 100 miles away.
Similarly, not many of us appear to fret regarding what happens to
the water once it’s served its functions. The recent engineering
discipline of sanitary engineering has evolved into fashionable
environmental engineering of such significance that almost all
educational departments have modified their names to civil and Questions -
environmental engineering. 5,858 likes

These few examples illustrate that civil engineers do lots quite style
buildings and bridges. they’ll be found within the region business, Like Page

coming up with jetliners and house stations; within the automotive

Be the first of your friends
business, perfecting the load-carrying capability of a chassis and
rising the crash worthiness of bumpers and doors; and that they is
found within the ship building business, the ability business, and lots
of different industries where made facilities area unit concerned.
and that they arrange and supervise the development of those
facilities as construction managers.

2. What are the causes of building collapse?

The passage of time is one reason. Buildings also collapse due to
weak foundations. Earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural
disasters can also damage the structure of the buildings and cause it
to collapse. Bombings or demolition of buildings is also other
reasons.

3. What are the applications of modulus of elasticity?

As the term implies, “Modulus of Elasticity” relates to the elasticity
or “flexibility” of a material. The value of modulus of elasticity is very BBR
much significant relating to deflection of certain materials used in
the construction industry. Take for example the general E value of
Constructio
mild carbon steel is about 200 Gpa compared to about 70 Gpa for Methods
aluminum. This simply translate that aluminum is 3 times flexible bbrnetwork.com
than steel.

Bridge Construction
4. Define What is the difference between routing maintenance Techniques
and major maintenance in school facilities?
Specialists in the fie
of construction
The routine maintenance is the minor and consistent repairs engineering method
that are engaged in the school premises. Examples could
include painting, replacement of fixtures, louver blades,
furniture repairs, and patching cracks in the school buildings.
The major maintenance could also be a total rehabilitation of
the school, either school buildings or any other project within
 the school community. It could be total restructuring of the
lighting system in the school or sanitary system.

5. How are freeway bridges built?

After calculating the anticipated traffic for the bridge,
cement/reinforced- with- rebar stanchions are spaced over the
freeway to accommodate the bridge. An ‘off-ramp’ from the freeway
to the bridge is constructed, as is an ‘on-ramp’ to the subsequent
road. Cement/rebar slabs are built and lifted with cranes to form the OPEN
platform, and voila! Drive carefully.
Although the bridge deck/roadway is almost always a concrete slab,
the structure that holds up the bridge deck can be reinforced
concrete, structural steel, or a combination of steel and concrete.

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6. What is the difference between absorption & adsorption and

sorption?

Absorption generally refers to two phenomena, which are

largely unrelated. In one case, it refers to when atoms,
molecules, or ions enter some bulk phase – gas, liquid or solid
material. For instance, a sponge absorbs water when it is dry.
Absorption also refers to the process by which the energy of a
photon is taken up by another entity, for example, by an atom
whose valence electrons make transition between two
electronic energy levels. The photon is destroyed in the
process. The absorbed energy may be re-emitted as radiant
energy or transformed into heat energy. The absorption of
light during wave propagation is often called attenuation. The
tools of spectroscopy in chemistry are based on the
absorption of photons by atoms and molecules.
Adsorption is similar, but refers to a surface rather than a
volume: adsorption is a process that occurs when a gas or
liquid solute accumulates on the surface of a solid or, more
rarely, a liquid (adsorbent), forming a molecular or atomic film
(the adsorb-ate). It is different from absorption, in which a
substance diffuses into a liquid or solid to form a solution.
7. How do you measure concrete?
Cubic feet, Cubic yards, Cubic Meter

8. Define What is the tallest man made structure in the world?

The tallest man made structure is the KVLY-TV mast which is 2063
feet tall. The worlds tallest man made structure is Burj Dubai which
is 800 meter tall.

9. Define What are the uses of alloys in daily life and how are
alloys made?

Alloying is not always done to produce a ‘superior’ material,

but to produce materials having a desired requirement in the
industry or elsewhere. A classic case is of lead solder
(containing lead & tin), in which the melting point of the
constituent elements are lowered, not necessarily a desirable
property.
Alloying can be carried out using hot press method (a sheet of
material is sandwiched with alloying material), rolling the
heated base metal in a drum full of alloying metal powder,
using hot spraying, galvanizing (dipping the base in a molten
solution of alloying material) etc. Sometimes the alloying
material is added in small proportions to the molten base
metal (e.g., in production of different types of steel).

10. What is the worlds largest concrete dam?

The Grand Coulee Dam is said to be the largest concrete dam.
Currently the world’s largest concrete dam is the Itaipu Dam, an
accomplishment of two neighboring countries, Brazil and paraguay
in South America.
Though it is not finished yet, the Three Gorges (or Sandapong) Dam
on the Yangtze River in China will take over as the largest upon its
completion, which is slated for 2009.
 CIVIL ENGINEERING Questions

11. What is braced excavation all about?

Excavations are braced to prevent the cave-in of surrounding
unstable soil.

12. What is the meaning of soil reinforcement?

Soil reinforcement is the act of improving soil strength to enable it
support or carry more load.
Two common examples are:

1. Mixing a soil amendment such as lime into weak clayey soil and
re-compacting to improve soil-bearing capacity (often done
under the road base in highway construction)
2. Installing plastic or composite webbing layers (called geo-grid
material) alternating with compacted soil to produce a stronger
sloped soil structure (often done on steep roadway
embankments to improve strength and stability)

13. Define What is aggregate?

Aggregate is the component of a composite material used to resist
compressive stress.

14. What year was the keystone power plant in Indiana County
constructed?
1967 began commercial operation on unit 1.

15. Define What is the force exerted by the Tacoma narrows

bridge?
The force exerted to the Tacoma narrows bridge was initially the
wind resistance. The wind resistance caused the whole bridge to act
as a system with forced vibration with damping.
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16. How do you calculate the power of a centrifugal pump?

The input power, that is, the power required to operate the pump
should be stated in Hp (horsepower) on the pump’s nameplate. It
can also be calculated by the 3-phase power equation:
P(in Hp) = VI(1.7c) = Rated Voltage x Rated Current x 1.73/
%Efficiency
If this is a consumer grade pump that operates on 120Vac, then the
equation becomes P = VI, simply multiply the operating voltage, 120
x current (which is the number followed by the letter “A”.

The output power, which really is not technically power, but rated in
Gpm (gallons per minute), or capacity should also be on the
nameplate. If you have the make, model, and (not necessarily
needed) the serial number (also on the nameplate) you could call the
manufacturer’s customer service dept. As an application engineer, I
have contacted countless manufacturers’, and service dept’s for
assistance. It is now big deal to them, they will be happy to answer
your questions.

17. Why nautical mile is different from statute mile?

One nautical mile is defined by one latitude minute of arc (there are
60 such minutes to a degree). This equals 1852 meters, and roughly
(but coincidentally) 2000 yards or 6000 feet. (Edit: actually, a
standard nautical mile is 6076 feet, 6000 feet and 2000 yards are
commonly used approximations, but produce an error of about 1%).
The statute mile had a little fuzzier definition to start with, as one
mile was the same as 1000 roman paces/steps. The definition has
since changed, but one statute mile equals about 1609 meters.

18. Define What is rigging?

In sailing, the ropes used to move the sails around so the boat will
move in the right direction when the wind blows.

19. What is absolute pressure?

Absolute pressure is simply the addition of the observed gage
pressure plus the value of the local atmospheric pressure.
20. How do we calculate absolute pressure?
Absolute is equal to gauge pressure plus atmospheric.

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21. What is Gravity flow?

Gravity flow is fluid flowing due to the forces of gravity alone and
not to an applied pressure head. In the Bernoulli equation, the
pressure term is omitted, and the height and velocity terms are the
only ones included.

22. What is horizon or horizontal mining?

Horizon or horizontal mining can be applied to extraction of

material from seams of any stratified mineral such as
limestone or ironstone, but it is more usually associated with
coal – particularly where there are several seams that are
inclined or folded and/or faulted.
Horizon mining involves long level roadways (horizons) being
driven from the shafts to the extremity of the area to be
mined.
The levels of the horizons are chosen to intersect the
maximum number of seams the maximum number of times. As
the seams are intersected, headings will be driven into the
seam so that the desired material may be extracted. This
method of mining requires a thorough understanding of the
geological structure of the area to be mined so that the level
of the horizons can be chosen for optimum results.
This method of mining is popular in modern coalmines with
seams worked from several horizons. The considerable capital
outlay of driving horizons before production can begin is
recouped by the advantage of having long straight level
roadways of generous dimensions unaffected by the crushing
effect of nearby extraction of the mineral.

23. What is the difference between engineering stress and true

stress?
In biology, Stress is something that disrupts homeostasis of an
organism. In engineering, Stress is an external force that pushes,
pulls, twists, or otherwise puts force on something.
Engineering stress assumes that the area a force is acting upon
remains constant, true stress takes into account the reduction in
area caused by the force.

24. Define What is a kip?

1 kip = 1000 lbs

25. What are some structures that may be subjected to fatigue?

Bridges, hydraulic presses, burners trains

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26. Will going from a 3-tap to 6-tap increase water pressure?

No, the pressure will be the same, you will get more volume only if
your pumps can handle the GPM, to increase pressure you may need
a booster pump or a single pump that is rated for your needs.

27. Why does the pressure increase under soil?

Soil pressure increases with depth due to the overburden or self-
weight of the soil and due to loads imposed upon the soil.
For example, the pressure variation below the depth of soil is linear
and the relation is given by pressure = unit wt * depth. As depth
increases, there will be a linear increase in the soil pressure.

28. Define What is the distance between railway tracks?

4 feet, 8 1/2 inches

29. How high should the water tank be to provide a 60 PSI at

base of this water tower?
138.60ft
2.31ft of water= 1 PSI

30. Define What are the reasons for geotechnical site

investigations in Uganda?

To know the soil properties, in so doing be in position to

determine whether the particular site is suitable for the
purpose intended
 To know the history of the site
To know what remedies need to be put in place before
construction can start
Based on the soil properties, that can be determined on site
and in the lab, design the appropriate foundation for the
structure.

31. What do you mean by honeycomb in concrete?

Some people call it an air pocket in the concrete or a void.

32. What is the purpose of the gap in the road on this bridge?
Purpose of the gap in the road is to allow the road to expand and
contract with temperature changes without causing damage or
deformation to the road.

33. Define What is the tensile strength of wood?

The tensile strength of a material is the value at which the material
fails when subjected to a tensile force. (Tensile means a force pulling
the wood fibers lengthwise, as opposed to a compression force.)
There are a lot of different types and load cases for wood, so there
is not one answer to this question. For example, wood used outside
will fail at a lower load than wood inside. Wood is also an isotropic,
i.e. it has different strength in different directions.
Example values of tensile strength vary anywhere from 175 pounds
per square inch for Utility Grade pine to 1400 PSI for Dense Select
Structural grade Douglas Fir. A good reference for material strength
data for most species and grades of commercially available wood
can be found in the American Institute of Timber Construction
handbook.

34. How many Lbs are there in a yard?

A pound (Lb) is a unit of measurement for weight while a yard is a
unit of measurement for distance.
If you are referring to common measurements used on a
construction site, a “yard” is a common abbreviation for a “cubic
yard”, which is a unit of measurement of volume. (A cubic yard
equals 27 cubic feet.)
Since dirt weighs about 110 pounds per cubic feet, a cubic yard of
dirt weighs about 2970 Lbs. Since concrete is heavier (150 PCF), a
cubic yard of concrete weighs about 4050 Lbs.

35. Define What is a projection line?

Projection line is the way, in which the earth is shown on a flat piece
of paper.

36. What are moment of inertia and its importance in civil

engineering?
The moment of inertia measures the opposition any kind of body will
have against a certain momentum (along that same axis) trying to
rotate that body.

37. Define What is the origin of name Railway Sleepers?

When sleepers were added below the railway, lines the trains ran
more smoothly and people fell asleep on their journeys.

38. What is BMC stands for in BMC Software?

BMC Software founders Scott Boulette, John Moores, and Dan Cloer
began a contract programming partnership that operated in and
around Houston, Texas.

39. Does brick grows bigger every year.

Usually bricks do not grow, but since stuff gets all over, it looks like it
grows.

40. How did street originate in the plumbing term street ell?
A “street ell” may have gotten its name because it describes a 90°
fitting particularly useful in tight, street ditches. When installing
water pipes under a street, or from a water service, again under the
street, into a home or business, this street ell allows one to change
pipe direction with one less fitting, and in less space, than with a
standard ell.

41. What is the absolute pressure scale?

Absolute pressure is calculated from a vacuum (0 PSI) and
atmospheric pressure is14.7PSIa or 14.7 PSI above a vacuum 1PSI on
a tire pressure gauge is called 1PSIg = 15.7PSIa 10PSIg=24.7PSIa
100PSIg=114.7PSIa etc.
42. What is the difference between QA and QC?
Many people and organizations are confused about the difference
between quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and testing.
They are closely related, but they are different concepts. Since all
three are necessary to manage the risks of developing and
maintaining software, it is important for software managers to
understand the differences. They are defined below:

1. Quality Assurance: A set of activities designed to ensure that

the development and/or maintenance process is adequate to
ensure a system will meet its objectives.
2. Quality Control: A set of activities designed to evaluate a
developed work product.
3. Testing is the process of executing a system with the intent of
finding defects. (Note that the “process of executing a system”
includes test planning prior to the execution of the test cases.)

43. How did the Romans get water up hills using aqua ducts?
Technically, the Romans were not able to get water to move uphill in
a general sense. All aqueducts move water from an elevated source
(spring-fed streams in the mountains) to end-users at a lower
elevation. The water flows almost entirely downhill from the source
to the end user. If the water needed to cross a valley, the Romans
would build an arched structure with an elevated channel to cross
the valley, but even this channel would have a vary slight downhill
gradient that allowed water to flow towards the end user. If a large
hill was in their way, the Romans would either divert the channel
around the hill, dig a trench through the hill, or dig a tunnel through
the hill, all while maintaining a fairly constant, slight downhill
gradient towards the end user.

The only exception to the rule of a generally constant downhill slope

to the water channel is that specific tunnel segments, the Romans
could build the tunnel as an inverted siphon (mentioned above) to
cross a depression or valley and raise the water level on the downhill
side almost to the level of the uphill side. To do this requires a well-
sealed tunnel strong enough to withstand the increased water
pressure within the siphon. Note, however, that except for gaining a
little bit of elevation if you slow down fast-moving water, you
normally cannot get water to flow out of the outlet at a higher
elevation than the inlet. So technically, even the Romans were not
able to get water to flow “up a hill”.

44. Will Water damage concrete?

As far as only concrete is concerned i.e. plain concrete, the effect of
water seepage is very little (depending upon the grade of concrete)
whereas for RCC (reinforced cement concrete) water that seeps in
corrodes the reinforcement and thus reduces the life of the
structure. The defects that water seepage induces in concrete are as
follows:

induces capillary formation (due to the deteriorating

characteristics of water)
With this capillaries the concrete starts spalling out; i.e. the
places where capillaries are formed, with even slight amount
of stress that portion comes out and exposes the steel to the
atmosphere
Concrete has a pH of about 12 -13. It also reduces the pH of
the concrete when in salty water (or) when exposed to marshy
areas.
Reduces the overall strength of concrete
Reduces durability
Reduces permeability to further water seepage
Results in ageing of structures

45. How do you determine Specific gravity of cement?

Cement is usually purchased as a powdery substance that is mixed
with sand, aggregate, gravel, and water to form concrete. Since the
cement itself is usually a powder, it is hard to measure a standard
value for its specific gravity. In addition, since cement is usually not
used by itself, knowing its specific gravity is not particularly useful.
A more useful question is “What is the typical density of concrete?”
A rule of thumb answer is that normal cured concrete has a density
of about 150 pounds per cubic foot. This includes the weight of the
cement, sand, aggregate, and that part of the water that chemically
binds with the cement to form the concrete. Since water weighs
about 62.4 pounds per cubic feet, concrete is about 2.4 times as
heavy. Thus, the specific gravity of concrete is about 2.4. If you took
cement and mixed it with water, you would eventually have a hard
lump of useless cement and it would also have a specific gravity of
between 2 and 2.4.

46. Define What is the meaning of a blue land surveyors flag?

If the flag was placed by Utility personnel responding to a “One-call”
locate request, the blue flag indicates a buried water line. You see
these marked when a contractor calls the “Call before you dig
number” a couple of days prior to excavating. This is required by law
in each state to reduce the likelihood of damaging underground
utilities when excavating.
The standard color code used by almost all utility companies for
painting & flags is:

White – “Here is the area I plan on excavating!”

Blue – water line
Red -electricity
Yellow -natural gas
Green -sewer
Orange -telephone and/or fiber optic line

If the blue flagging was a fuzzy blue marker nailed to the top of a
wood surveyor’s stake, then it probably serves to indicate the top of
the grade at which the engineer wants the earthmoving equipment
to place fill dirt. These are called “blue-top” stakes.

47. What are advancements in civil engineering?

Unlike other fields of engineering, the major advancement of the
filed has been in the early years of the century before the last
century where the use of concrete technology is advanced. The use
of cement as a construction material is since the turn of the last
century, improvement in the field increase by the use of steel
elements in the construction of buildings and bridges of various
types. With the help of two, it was possible to do multistory
buildings in the world.
Machineries were created to speed up the construction structures.
The last century has also seen the advent of sophisticated design to
withstand the effect of earthquake that was not possible before.
With the use of computers, development of model and analysis of
structures under the effect of loads was made possible. Before just
two decades, it used to take months and months to design high-rise
building and big bridges. Now it is a matter of hours.

48. Why is the statue of liberty made of copper?

Copper is a very durable material when exposed to weather and is
soft enough that it can be easily molded to curved shapes such as
those in the Statue of Liberty. It is also traditionally used in buildings
for complex roofs, so there would have been trades people available
trained to use it.
Other metals that can be molded are lead but it does not have the
attractive verdigris color, and gold much is more expensive

49. Are cruise ships built for the transatlantic run?

The Queen Mary 2 was built for transatlantic crossings, but much
smaller ships can make the crossing easily. In 1995, I crossed the
Atlantic from New York to the Azores on the Royal Princess (which
was not the same ship as the current Royal Princess), which was
about one-fourth the size of the QM2. Just about any seaworthy
passenger ship can navigate the Atlantic safely, if not comfortably.

50. Define What is diversion tunnel in a dam?

When a dam is to be built, a diversion tunnel is usually bored
through solid rock next to the dam site to bypass the dam
construction site. The dam is built while the river flows through the
diversion tunnel.

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51. What distance in meters on the ground is the equivalent of

one second of arc in longitude or latitude?

1. One minute of arc as measured at the center of the Earth

covers one nautical mile on the surface of the Earth at mean
sea level. One nautical mile is 6080 feet or 1853.2 meters.
Therefore one second of arc would be 6080 / 60 = 101.3 feet or
30.886 meters.
2. Lines of latitude are at regular intervals parallel to the equator.
The relationship between degrees of latitude and the distance
spanned on the earth’s surface remains constant. Therefore at
all latitudes 1 minute of latitude spans 1 nautical mile on the
earths surface.
3. Lines of longitude converge at the poles. Therefore, the
relationship between degrees of longitude and the distance
spanned on the earth’s surface is reduced as the poles are
approached.
4. At the equator, the distance spanned by 1 minute of longitude
would be 1 nautical mile. At the poles, it would be zero. To
calculate the actual distance on the surface of the earth
between two points of known latitude and longitude requires
knowledge of spherical trigonometry to calculate the great
circle distance between the two points.
5. The distances quoted are for the surface of the earth at mean
sea level. Distances will be increased above sea level and
 reduced below it.

52. How do you maintain water pressure?

If you have water pressure and wish to maintain it, do not cause flow
in the line, which will reduce pressure due to friction. To keep
pressure up, reduce friction by increasing the line size or eliminating
some other restriction.

53. What are some facts about concrete?

Actually, drying is not directly linked to hardness in concrete. After
concrete is poured, putting it in a wet environment by spraying it
constantly with water will hasten its hardening and its curing. After
concrete cures, it is hard.

54. Define Who designed the city of Washington DC?

Pierre L’enfant

55. Where is the worlds longest elevator and how long is it?
Gold mines in South Africa go a few kilometers below the surface.
The deepest mine now is the Mponeng Mine in the Orange Free
State. The depth of the mine is well over 3000m from the surface
and is getting deeper. The lift itself descends 3037m to a point
1200m below sea level. It takes 4 minutes.

56. How many kilo-Newtons equals 1000 kilogram?

When the 1000 kg are at rest, on Earth with gravitational
acceleration 9.81 m/s2, 1000 kg equal 9.81 kN.

57. How is the Leaning Tower of Pisa supported?

In the same manner, it was supported when it was constructed.
However, it has gotten some “help” over the years.
In the last couple of decades, the responsible parties rolled up their
sleeves and removed something approaching 40 meters3 of earth
from under the higher side of the structure. This had the effect of
straightening it toward the vertical by about a foot and a half at the
top. For the first time in its history, it is no longer moving. In
addition, in the good-news corner of the paper is that it is open to
the public again. In addition, the folks who lived near the tower in
the direction it was leaning have returned to their homes and do not
have to sleep with an eye and an ear open.

58. What does civil engineering mean?

They do many interesting things. Their job has to do a lot with
design and construction. They can tell you what works and what will
not for all sorts of situations. There is a lot of mathematics involved
along with many other disciplines. They have to have a good solid
understanding of how the environment works and how nature
interacts with man made. They are probably best known for
designing bridges, interstates, skyscrapers, canals, and so forth.

59. How long does it take concrete to harden?

It takes 28 days to cure.

60. What is the biggest dam in America?

The Grand Coulee Dam – Grand Coulee, Washington

1. Length 5,223 ft
2. Height 550 ft

61. How does siphoning work?

Pretty good if the outside hose is a lot lower than the inside hose.
The siphon works by a hose stuck in a fluid container higher than the
receiving container. Suction is shortly placed on the lower side of the
hose until the fluid is flowing down the down line. Gravity will cause
a continued flow.

62. Why was the Empire State Building made of steel?

Strength–Steel is very strong

Flexibility–Ability to flex in the wind
Cost–Inexpensive and fast to build; prefab construction
Concrete, a possible alternative, has less compressive strength
than steel. The bottom support structure of the empire state
building would consist of a large percentage of solid concrete
simply to support the weight of the building.
63. What is the quantity of cement in Mix M20 concrete?
For nominal Mix Cement consumption for M25 will be 570 kg per
cum. and for Design Mix it can be optimized to 510 kg per cum.

64. Define What is unit weight of normal concrete?

145 PCF

65. What is the difference between shear and tensile strength?

Tensile Strength for a Bolt is determined by applying a Force along it
long axis. Shear Strength for a Bolt is determined by applying a
Force across its diameter, as it would be loaded in a lug joint.

66. How many Pyramid in Egypt?

About 80

67. Would you cause a 55-gallon drum of water to weigh more by

climbing in?
A person will sink in water if he is not holding enough air in his lungs
to keep him floating. Therefore, the person weighs more than the
amount of water that he will displace.

68. Who built the sears tower?

While he did not build the structure (he died in l959), there is some
evidence the idea was suggested under a different name (Illinois
Building) by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the few true skyscrapers in
which he had a role. The original design for the Illinois Building
would have topped off at 5,280 Feet! The Swears tower is a quarter
of this at most, but there are similarities.

69. At what point does a circle start losing area when being
flattened?
The area ratio decreases slowly at first then more rapidly.
The area of an ellipse is A=pi x a X b, a and b are the 1/2 major and
1/2 minor axis. If a = r = b the area is A=pi X r2, which is a circle. Not
hard to graph this but you will have to write the area of the ellipse in
terms of the circumference.

70. How do you compute volume of airflow?

Orifice meter is used for measuring flow rate air.
71. Define What is made from large rocks, which protects the
base of cliffs?
Stacks

72. Why are the bolts that hold steel rails together in oval holes?
It has to do with the design of the bolts. The reason that head of the
bolt is oval. The head of a bolt fit flush into the bar and set in
opposing sets is so that a piece of dragging equipment will not shear
off all the bolts in a joint but rather the just the nuts one side. As a
result, if the hole were not oval on one side there would be no way
to tighten or loose the bolts in a joint.

73. Define What are the materials used in building a gravity

dam?
There are many gravity dams constructed of compacted earth. High
dams are generally concrete. All dams require a spillway to be safe.
The spillway must be armored.

74. How many feet are in 4 square yards?

There are 9 square feet in a square yard therefore there are 36
square feet in 4 square yards.

75. What black man invented the clothes dryer?

George T. Sampson

76. What is the average density of soil?

For purposes of civil engineering, an average soil will have a density
of about 100 to 110 pounds per cubic foot. (This can vary a little
depending upon how well compacted the soil is.)

77. Define What glue is least sticky?

Elmer’s glue is least sticky.

78. What are the strongest shapes in building?

The pillars

79. Which architectural movement is also known as Jazz

Moderna?
Art nouveau
80. What is the withdrawal force of steel nails?
In engineering, the code-allowable withdrawal force is zero, because
the wood expands and contracts over time and the nail pullout force
can reduce to zero.

81. What is the strongest bridge for a school contest?

If you are making a spaghetti bridge, bunch it all together in a
triangular prism or a big brick and just fill the gaps with paste.

82. What is the formula for figuring out how many gallons of
water are in a pipe by the foot?
0.61 * d2, where d is the diameter of the pipe in inches.

83. What is the tensile strength of marble?

Tensile Strength, Ultimate 7.00 – 20.0 Mpa 1020 – 2900 PSI
this is the strength in a pure tension test. For bending use:
Modulus of Rupture 0.00410 – 0.0276 Gpa 0.595 – 4.00 ksi

84. Did any of the Egyptian pyramids ever fall down?

Yes, many did. The great pyramid and others that have survived did
so for a reason. Their shapes made them sturdier over time and were
not the first design. Many steppe pyramids were built but were too
steep and as the corners eroded, the whole pyramid fell under its
own weight. They were built too steep and did not have the base
structure as seen in the great pyramid.

85. Can a wave happen in the middle of the ocean like in the
movie Poseidon 2006?
Yes. Rogue waves have been known to capsize ships.

86. Define What materials were used to build the Golden Gate
Bridge?
Its materials were steel and concrete.

87. What is the density of most of construction materials?

If it floats it is less dense than water, 62.4 lbs/cubic ft. Wood is about
40 lbs/ cu.ft.–it floats. Concrete is 150 lbs. / cu.ft. — It does not float.
88. How and where are aqueducts built?
Aqueducts are built in areas where you have a bunch of motivated
end users (like a town or group of farmers) at a low elevation in need
of a more reliable source of water located somewhere fairly nearby
at a higher elevation. The aqueduct builders construct a series of
canals, elevated channels, and tunnels as required to get the water
from the source to the end users. Some good examples:

1. Roman engineers built aqueducts throughout Italy and France

from mountain water sources to serve city dwellers
2. Water-needy Southern California cities and farms are served by
an aqueduct that brings them water from sources in Northern
California
3. New York City is supplied by an aqueduct and tunnel system
from sources upstate.
4. Inca farmers in coastal valleys built irrigation aqueducts from
sources higher up in the Rockies
5. Native American cultures in Phoenix area built irrigation canal
systems that diverted water from sources at higher elevations
to irrigate their crops.

89. Define What does civil status mean?

Civil means like, when you do not get on with someone, but only talk
when you have to. Alternatively, when you do talk you do not argue.
Alternatively, if you are with someone who is of your both friends
and family, you do not ruin it for them.

90. What are the advantages and disadvantages of lead products

in construction?

Disadvantages: -Lead is very toxic; its use can result in

pollution of the ground and more importantly of water
supplies. This leads to the contamination of drinking water and
can cause hazards to human health as well as disrupting entire
ecosystems.
Advantages: Because of its toxicity, lead is being bought less
and less around the world, which of course results in the
lowering of its cost. In addition, lead melts at a relatively low
temperature, making it great for solder. However, recently the
 Chinese have show an interest in buying mass quantities to
manufacture batteries made from a base of lead so the price
of this metal may soon rise.

91. How do you measure water flowing through 300mm diameter

pipes?
Same as in inches 3.14159265 and PSI have to be known.

92. Define the various stages of the project planning process in

construction.
First stage could be Briefing and Inception.

93. How do you convert wind speed into force?

Therometer

94. What is kn measurement?

kn (both letters lowercase) is knots, which is a speed nautical miles
per hour.

95. What are the advantages of building a dam on the river Nile?
It is the same as building a dam on any river. Dams are built to
control flooding downstream during the wet season, generate
power year round, and provide irrigation in the dry season.

96. How much does the leaning tower of Pisa lean?

About 14 feet

97. Define What is the best type of wood glue?

Noob

98. Define What are the uses of Groynes?

They prevent, or slow down erosion, and stop long shore drift. This,
however, can have bad knock-on effects somewhere near.

99. What are the functions of a column in a building?

A column is used to support the weight of the roof and/or the upper
floors. Now days, many columns are used for decorative purposes. A
column along with load bearing beams can support a lot of weight.
100. Define What is an ice dam sock?
If you have never used a ice dam melting sock on your roof before,
you will find that they provide an inexpensive method for removing
roof ice dams and improving your home’s heating efficiency. Roof
ice dams are an annoying source of roof damage, leaks, and heat loss
in the winter. The main causes are drip melt from improperly capped
warm air vent pipes and poor roof insulation. Laying a ice melt sock
onto the roof so it crosses the ice dam and overhangs the gutter, will
melt through the snow and ice and create a channel for water to
flow down into the gutters or off the roof. If done properly those ice
sickles that form as the snow melts from the edges of the gutters
will never appear, they too are a cause of much damage and are
dangerous to life and limb.

CIVIL ENGINEERING Questions Answers

101. Define What happens to Load at yielding ?
A yield strength or yield point is the material property defined as the
stress at which a material begins to deform plastically. Prior to the
yield point the material will deform elastically and will return to its
original shape when the applied stress is removed.Once the yield
point is passed, some fraction of the deformation will be permanent
and non-reversible. In the three-dimensional space of the principal
stresses ( \sigma_1, \sigma_2 , \sigma_3), an infinite number of yield
points form together a yield surface.

The yield point determines the limits of performance for mechanical

components, since it represents the upper limit to forces that can be
applied without permanent deformation. In structural engineering,
this is a soft failure mode which does not normally cause
catastrophic failure or ultimate failure unless it accelerates buckling.

Yield strength is the critical material property exploited by many

fundamental techniques of material-working: to reshape material
with pressure (such as forging, rolling, or pressing), to separate
material by cutting (such as machining) or shearing, and to join
components rigidly with fasteners.

102. What is Critical path in Ms-Project ?

The Critical Path consists of a series of tasks that must be completed
on schedule for a project to finish on schedule. It is the series of
tasks (or even a single task) that dictates the calculated finish date.
Each task on the critical path is a critical task.

103. where will be the reinforcement of slab placed when there

is an inverted beam and the bottom of the beam and slab are at
same level ?
Irrespective of the type of reinforced concrete flexural element, the
fundamental requirement is that tension reinforcement must be
placed in that portion of the section which has tensile stresses.
Depending upon the type of element and loading, tensile stresses
may not be on the same (top or bottom) edge of the section. But it is
very easy to determine the portion of the length of the element
where tension is at the top and where it is at the bottom, by
studying the bending moment diagram of the element.
Reinforcement is placed on the compression side of the elements
when it is required to increase the moment carrying capacity of the
section beyond the limit possible for an under-reinforced section.
Replacing a portion of concrete in compression by steel results in
the compressive force and adding a little extra tension steel to
balance the additional compression makes it possible to increase the
moment of resistance without increasing the depth of the section.

Having said that, an inverted beam (with slab flush with the bottom
of the beam) reverses the location of flange but not the bending
moment distribution. So, positioning of reinforcement would be the
same as an a normal beam. But it has an impact on the amount of
reinforcement because of the changed flange location.

104. Define What is passive earth pressure ?

Passive earth pressure is the highest limiting lateral pressure
developed at the onset of shear failure by wall moving (penetrating)
in the direction opposite to the direction of acting earth pressure
(minimal wall rotation necessary for the evolution of passive earth
pressure is about 10 mrad, i.e. 10 mm/m of the wall height). In most
expressions used to compute the passive earth pressure the sign
convention is assumed such that the usual values of δ corresponding
to vertical direction of the friction resultant are negative. The
program, however, assumes these values to be positive. A seldom
variant with friction acting upwards is not considered in the
program.

105. Which condition will prevail for the design of a swimming

pool ? when the pool is empty or when it is filled ?
Depends on many factors – like in-ground vs above-ground – but
both is a good answer – in-ground an empty pool has to withstand
the force of the earth pushing on it. Both when filled have to handle
the force of the water on the shape of the walls and bottom.

106. Which is stronger solid steel rod or hollow steel pipe?

On a per pound basis, steel pipe is stronger in bending and is less
likely to buckle in axial compression.

107. What is reinforced concrete?

Reinforced concrete have steels bars or mesh in them, which gives

extra strength to the construction.

108. What are the different types of foundation?

Three main types of foundation are

1. Basement: In this a basement is prepared first on top of it

building is constructed
2. Crawl space: A crawl space is a raised foundation, it is built
above the ground, just allowing enough space to crawl
underneath
3. Slab: In this foundation, concrete is directly poured into the pit
made in the ground.

109. What is Hybrid Foundation?

Hybrid Foundation is usually used for high rise building, it contains

both soil supported mat and piles. This type of foundation is helpful
in reducing the amount of the settlement.

110. What are the common ways of demolition?

 Hydro-demolition
Pressure Bursting
Dismantling

111. What is floating slab foundation?

A floating concrete foundation is a type of mat foundation that

consists of the hollow mat formed by a grid of thick reinforced
concrete walls between two thick reinforced concrete slabs.

112. What is flashing?

Flashing is an extended construction that is done to seal and

protects joints in a building from water penetration. Flashing is
installed at the intersecting roofs, walls and parapets.

113. Define different types of roof systems?

Slate or Stone roofs

Wood shingle roofs
Metal roofing systems

114. What are the phases inspections are done by local authority
while construction?

Various inspections during the construction includes

Site Inspection
Pre-construction or first construction Inspection
Foundation inspection(before placing of concrete)
Framing inspection ( before insulating or covering frame)
Insulation inspection ( After insulation is completed)
Final inspection (after all construction is completed, and
permits are received)

115. List out some of the checking’s, done at the completion of

construction?

Some of the checking done on the exterior of the construction is

 Utility connections
Drainage
Retaining walls
Compaction of fill material
Caulking at opening
Storm sewer system
Safety provision ( terraces, porches, areaways)
Accessory buildings
Pavement edging
Protection against moisture penetration
Design of dwelling structure

116. What is alternate bid?

Alternate bid is the amount stated in the bid to be deducted or

added from the base bid amount. Alternate bid is proposed when
there is a use of alternate materials or methods of construction.

117. What is change order request?

Change order request is a written document issued or given by the

owner, requesting an adjustment to the contract sum or an
extension of the contract time. Usually, it is issued by the architect
or owners representative.

118. What does a construction cost covers and what does not?

A construction cost covers material, labor, equipment and services,

contractor’s overhead and profit and other direct construction costs.
While, it does not cover compensation paid to the architect,
consultant or engineers, cost of the land and other cost that is
owner’s responsibility.

119. What is Critical Path Method (C.P.M)?

Critical Path Method is strategy and method of representing the

respective tasks and activities involved in the construction through a
symbolic diagram.
120. What is demising walls?

Demising wall is used for the boundary that separates your land or
house from neighbor’s house

121. What is labor and material payment bond?

It is a bond between the owner and the main contractor. Where a
contractor guarantees for payment to the owner if he fails to pay for
all labor, materials, equipment’s or services in accordance with the
contract.

122. What is progress payment?

It is a payment done by owner to the contractor; it is a difference

between the completed work and material stored and a pre-
determined schedule of values or unit costs.

123. What is structural frames or systems?

Structural frames are a load bearing assembly of beams and columns

on a foundation. Normally, the columns and beams are generally
fabricated off site and assembled on site.

124. What is zoning permit?

Zoning permit is a document issued by governing urban authority

permitting land to be used for a particular purpose.

125. What is the release of lien?

Release of lien is a written document executed by an individual or

firm supplying labor, material or professional service on a project,
which release his mechanic’s lien against the project property.

126. What is Architect-Prepared Contract?

Architect- Prepared Contract is an agreement prepared in-house by

the architect between owner and architect, and often reviewed by
an attorney, before its execution. It is a legal contract, and it
includes all terms and conditions including adequate legal
protection for both the parties.

127. What is 1/8 on the architect ruler denotes?

1/8 on the ruler is infact a scale that converts 1/8 inch on to the
drawing to 1 foot. It would represent a drawing with a scale of 1/8”=
1 foot.

128. List out some of the software program that can be useful
for architect?

software programs List

AutoCAD
Revit
3DS Max
Sketchup
Photoshop
Adobe creative suites
Microsoft office
Digital Media

129. What are the skills required to become an architect?

1. Conceptual understanding of designing models

2. Basic knowledge of computer and architect related software
programs
3. Engineering ability
4. Business aptitude
5. Legal knowledge
6. Designing 3D models

130. What things architect have to take care of before starting

any project?

Whether the owner has proper planning permission

Whether the building has a certain listed grade approved
 Knowledge of building appliances and materials that includes
the cost as well
Need to take environmental factors into consideration

131. How you can use different dimension tools in CAD? What
are the different dimensions available?

If you are using CAD and want to use dimension tools, then go to
CAD>Dimensions and you can have access to a wide range of
dimensions like

Manual dimensions
Interior dimensions
Auto exterior dimensions
Auto interior dimensions
End to end dimensions
Point to point dimensions
Angular dimensions
Display temporary dimensions
Moving objects using dimensions

132. How you can turn off the display for dimension in CAD?

The display of your dimensions can be turned off in CAD for that you
have to go under Floor Plan View and follow the following steps

1. In floor plan active, select Tools – Display Options

2. Scroll down to the dimensions- Automatic and Dimensions-
Manual layers and remove the checkmarks from the Disp
column
3. When you click OK, the display of the dimensions in your plan
will be turned off

133. Which are the top apps for you civil engineering?

Some of the top Apps

Ever note
STEEL
 Dropbox
Instagram
Sketchbook
Photoshop Express
Flipboard
Magic Plan
Houzz
AutoCAD Ws

134. What are wooden shingles?

Wooden shingles are rectangular in shapes, and they are like slats or
sheets that are nailed to the exterior surface. Shingling is a
traditional weather proofing method for building.

135. List out some of the common problems that architect have
to tackle it?

When client is not sure about what they want

When there is a limited budget
When customer requires custom design at standard design
cost
When architect has to work with limited space

136. How to build the floor to ceiling bookcase?

To build a floor to ceiling bookcase

First measure the distance between the floor and ceiling

Cut two boards of the length of that distance
Cut two boards with the width you require
Attach top and bottom boards to the side with 2 inch nails.
Keep a gap about one or two inches between each nail
Attach top and bottom boards to the side boards with 2 inch
nail. This will create a frame of your bookcase. Add the shelves
to the bookcase the way you want and then paint it.

137. What should be the standard roof height like to be?

For inhabited building, standard height for roof should be one or
two storeys tall. If you don’t need to make roof taller and yet you
want make it look bigger from outside use a mansard roof
containing multiple floors. The roof of the room can be adjusted by
changing its pitch or by adding a parapet.

138. List out the types of roofs?

Half hipped roof

Dutch gable roof
Skillion roof
Gambrel roof
Gull wind roof
Mansard roof
Bell cast roof
Sawtooth roof
Monitor roof, etc.

139. What are the problems one might face while having a
Cantilever balcony?

Cantilever balcony are usually unsupported and extend outwards, so

the problem with Cantilever balconies are

Excess deflection or bounce

Weakness of the deck structure
Rot and water damage to the interior of the house
Unevenness inside the house
Can’t use the balcony for gardening or other purposes as it is
not designed to lift excess amount of weight

140. For what building Built-on balconies are preferable? What

are the advantages?

Built on balconies are mainly designed for retrofitting older

buildings. This free standing balcony is supported in front of the
facade on four columns. They are backed to the wall with brackets.

The advantage of built-on balconies are :

 Old balconies can be dismantled, and the new ones can be
erected immediately in front of the faced without disturbing
the inner structure of the building
The work takes place outside of the house, so there is no
interference to the interior of the building

141. What things you need to take care of before building a

kitchen island?

Before you start building a kitchen island, you need to take care of

Design the kitchen island according to the need- if it is only for

cooking purpose then use less space, but if it is also for eating
then design it accordingly
List out what appliances you need for your kitchen island
How high the counter should be
How much storage space should you required
Working sides surrounding the kitchen island should have 42
inches of space as a minimum around the kitchen island. Don’t
plan Kitchen Island if it makes your kitchen more congested.

142. What is the difference between built area and super built
up area?

1. Built up area: It includes your carpet area plus area covered by

walls, pillars and ducts. It is usually 10% more from the carpet
area
2. Super built up area: It includes your built up area plus the area
that you use as building amenities like passage to lift, stairs and
lifts, gym, club, etc.

143. What is the ideal size of the living room ranges from small
to large size?

Very small size living room= 7x10ft ( for two seater sofas on
one side of the room)
Small living room= 10x13ft ( for two 2 seater sofa)
Medium living room= 12×18 (for 3 Seater sofa)
Large living room= 15×20 ( for 4 seater or 5 seater sofa)
144. What are the responsibilities of a construction manager?

The responsibilities of a construction manager are

Cost Estimates
Pre-purchase of selected materials
Selection of bidders for bidding phase
Analysis of proposals
Construction contract negotiations
Construction Scheduling and Monitoring
Cost control of construction
Construction supervision

145. List out the potential risk factors for workers on the
construction site?

Potential risk factors for worker on the construction site

1. Falls from heights

2. Scaffold and Trench collapse
3. Electric shock and arc blast
4. Repetitive motion injuries
5. Not using personal protective equipment correctly

146. What is OSHA compliance?

OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Act; its motive is to
fulfill the health and safety requirement of employees and workers.
It is a standard for health and safety that is followed by every
industrial segment and corporate offices throughout U.S.A.

147. What are the composition of a landfill?

For secure landfill, there are 4 critical elements

1. The bottom liner

2. A leachate collection system
3. A cover
4. Natural hydrogeologic settings
148. For the construction project what capital cost has to be
taken in consideration?

Land acquisition ( Assembly, holding and improvement)

Planning and feasibility studies
Construction ( Material, equipment, and labor)
Construction financing ( Bank loan)
Insurance and taxes during construction
Owner’s general office overhead
Inspection and testing
Equipment and furnishing not included in the construction
Field supervision, architectural and engineering design

149. List out some of the software used in the construction

sector to estimate cost and monitoring expenses?

• Tally System
• Sage
• Maxwell System
• Premier construction software
• eTakeoff
• Construction partner, etc.

150. In block work seawalls what is the purpose of slip joints?

Joints which are formed from the cope level to the toe level of
seawalls through a complete vertical plane are known as slip joints.
Such joints are designed so as to handle the differential settlements
between the seawalls adjacent panels. In the slip joints the
aggregates inside the half-rounds channels enables some vertical
movements. These vertical movements are induced by differential
settlements. This enables in the interlocking of the adjacent panels
of the seawalls to link the panels in one unit against the earth
pressure ( lateral ) which is exerted on the seawalls.

151. For a washout valve why are two gate valves required in
normal practice?
The washout valves are primarily used for normal maintenance
works such as that of water main. This can be like to allow water to
flow out during the cleaning of the water main. The junctions at
which a pipe branches out to a washout point usually a gate valve is
installed so that the two pipelines are separated. The gate valve
installed above usually remains open during normal operation.
Another gate valve is installed further downstream and this remains
closed during normal operation of the washout valve. In case this
valve is not installed then the pipe section of the branched out pipe
would remain dry during normal operation and high chances of
damage and leakage can take place. When the downstream valve is
installed the branched out water main contains water under normal
operation. With two gate valves installed a leakage can be detected
immediately.

152. What are the different approaches in designing the floors

of the service reservoirs?

In general there are two main approaches of designing the reservoir

floors to prevent leakage of water due to seasonal and shrinkage
movements:

In this approach the movement joints of the reservoir floor

panels are such that the free expansion and contraction of the
panels takes place. Every panel is isolated from the other
panels and two panels have a sliding layer between them to
help in sliding.
The second method does not provide any room for free
movement. With seasonal and shrinkage movements, some
cracks are designed to voluntarily occur on the floors of the
service reservoirs. These tiny cracks are spread throughout the
floor and are simply too minute to cause any leakage or
corrosion of the floors. But the difference also in this method
is that the amount of reinforcement used is much more than
the first approach.

153. Why concrete barriers have curved surface profiles?

The concrete safety fencing’s are made to contain vehicles in their
carriageway being traveled so as to reduce the chances of
rebounding into the roads leading to more hazards. In the case of
normal fencing’s upon vehicle crashes the fencing’s give away so as
to absorb as much energy as possible henceforth reducing the
impact on the vehicles. But in the case of concrete barriers their
purpose is not to absorb energy of vehicles crashing into the barrier
but to retain them. They have a curved design so as to allow the
vehicles that hit them to slightly go up on the barrier but not
overturn. They also prevent the vehicle from again getting back on
the road by rebounds. This helps in vastly reducing the chances of
other vehicle hazards.

154. Why is the use of granular sub-base in concrete

carriageways not preferred, explain?

Some of the reasons why granular sub-base is not preferred in

concrete carriageways:

Sub bases are permeable and hence water can seep through
them easily. The soil particles get pumped out through the
joints on the application of traffic loads. This results in the
creation of voids underneath the pavement structure. This
leads to the weakening of the concrete surface and it can crack
easily upon intense traffic loads.
Instead if lean concrete is used for carriageways it greatly
increases the strength of the roads and the load carrying
capacity of the roads is increased.
Sub-bases implementation requires a lot of workmanship
which can lead to an un-uniform distribution of the sub-base.
This can lead to the cracking of the carriageway when there is
severe traffic loading.

155. Why are separation membranes used between concrete

pavement slab and sub-base?

The purpose of separation membrane between the concrete

pavement slab and the sub-base are as follows:
 The separation membrane reduces the frictional forces
between the concrete slabs and the sub-base. The membrane
aids the movement of the concrete slab in reference to the
sub-base when changes in the level of the moisture and
temperature occurs.
It aids in the segregation of sub-base materials from freshly
placed concrete.
The separation membrane also helps in the reduction of
cement and water loss in the form of immature concrete.
Immature concrete greatly affects the strength of the
concrete. It also affects the durability of it.
A good example of a separation membranes is polythene
sheeting which is commonly used.

156. In the roof of a pumping station explain briefly the

components of a waterproofing system.

The components of a typical waterproofing system on the roof of a

pumping station are as follows:

Right above the structural finish level of the roof ( concrete ) a

uniform thickness screed is applied so as to facilitate the
application of the waterproofing membrane. The surface
provide for the membrane should always possess good
cohesion properties and must be thin so as to prevent any un-
uniformity. This thin layer also acts as a layer of thermal
insulation.
Right above this layer the waterproofing membrane is
deployed to secure the water tightness of the roof.
In order to enhance the thermal insulation of the roof an
insulation board is sometime placed right above the
waterproof membrane. The insulation board helps in the
maintenance of a stable temperature in both weathers.

157. During reclamation how can the occurrence of mud waves

can be rectified?

There are several solution to the rectification of the problem of mud

waves:
 Complete removal of all the disturbed mud: This method can
be considered to be one of the fastest methods. As soon as
the disturbed mud is removed some filling material is used to
replace the disturbed mud. But economically this method can
be expensive as compared to others.
Accelerated consolidation of disturbed mud: In this method
surcharging loads are placed on top of the mud waves. Along
with this band drains are installed to accelerate the
consolidation process. This method is quite slow compared to
the other methods.
Partial removal of the disturbed mud: This method is the
hybrid of the above two methods where the top layer is
removed whereas the lower level is treated with the
surcharging process.

158. In reclamation works what are the importance of

geotextiles and sand?

The primary purposes of geotextiles and sand in reclamation works

are as follows:

Geotextiles: They are used to separate the marine mud from

the reclamation fill. Also geotextiles are used as
reinforcements in reclamation processes to increase its
stability. It is still debated as to whether the usage of
geotextiles is better or are the old processes followed are
better as the performance has not been comparable to the
conventional methods.
Sand: In reclamation process sand is used to spread the load
of any future public dumps placed on top of it. Sand also acts
as a drainage for the excess pore water pressure of band drain
installations.

159. What are the different type of slump test indications?

Slump tests are performed to empirically measure the workability of

fresh concrete. It is used to measure the consistency of the concrete.
In general there are three different types of slumps that occur in
slump tests. They are as follows:
 True Slump
Shear Slump
Collapse Slump

True Slump: This type of slump is characterized by the general drop

of the concrete mass evenly without visible signs of deterioration or
disintegration.
Shear Slump: It indicates that the concrete mix is deficient in
cohesion. This type of slump leads to segregation and bleeding.
Henceforth in the long run effecting the durability of the concrete.
Collapse Slump: This type of slump is indicates that the mix of
concrete is simply too wet. The mix is considered to be harsh and
lean.

160. Why is propping required for long structures once the

formwork is removed?

Once the process of concreting is performed the striking of the

formworks should be done as soon as possible as delay in this
process can lead to the discoloration of the concrete structures. In
case of long structures particularly long span structures once the
structures have attained enough strength to support themselves it
is essential to provide them with propping as creep deflection can
take place which can greatly reduce the integrity of the structure.
Due to the above mentioned reasons propping should be done after
the removal of formwork. Also the props should not be made to
stand long as it can lead to overstress for the structures.

161. Explain the mechanism of cavitations in pipes and drains?

The formation of air bubbles in a fluid due to low pressure

conditions lower than the saturation pressure is known as
cavitations. This is considered to be a high potential damage
condition where the strength and durability of the pipes can be
greatly reduced. Cavitation works on the principle of Bernoulli’s
Equation. When fluids are at high velocities the pressure head of
fluids reduce accordingly. But since the fluid pressure is lower than
the saturation pressure the dissolved gases get released from the
flowing fluid. These air bubbles suddenly collapse on entering a
region of high pressure. This leads to the damage of the pipelines as
a high level of dynamic pressure is created.

162. For what purpose bedding is used under storm water drains,
explain?

Beddings are primarily made up of granular or concrete materials.

They are primarily used for the following purposes:

They are used to provide a more uniform support for the

under pipes so that the bending moment longitudinally can be
reduced greatly.
In order to enable the pipes to get more load-supporting
strength.
They are also used to act as a platform to achieve a more
correct alignment and level pre and post construction.
In case of pipes which contain spigot and socket joints, it
enables pipes to get supported along pipe lengths in place of
sockets. Otherwise it can lead to uneven stress being induced
on the pipes eventually damaging it.

163. Why are pull-out tests performed for soil nails?

Pull out tests are performed for primarily the following reasons:

In order to detect and the verification of the bond strength

among the soil and the grout adopted during the design of soil
nails. This is considered to be as the primary objective of
performing pull out tests for soil nails.
For the detection of any slippage or occurrence of creeps.
To detect the elastic and deformations (plastic) of any of the
test nails employed. Observations are made during the loading
and unloading cycles of the soil nails repetitively.
To achieve the perfect balance the test nails should always be
loaded so that the ultimate soil/grout mixture with an upper
limit of 80%.

164. Explain briefly the advantages and disadvantages of using

plastic and timber fenders?
The advantages and disadvantages of using plastic fenders are as
follows:
Plastic fenders are low in strength with a relatively high resistance
to abrasion. Plastic fenders are resistant to chemical and biological
attacks. Plastic fenders have moderate energy absorption capacity.
The berthing reactions are also comparatively moderate and
depends on the point of contact. Also since they are made from
recycled material they are environmental friendly.
The advantages and disadvantages of using timber fenders are:
timber fenders are low in strength and are very susceptible to
marine borer attacks and rotting. The energy absorption capacity is
very low. Also generally the contact pressure between the vessels
and the fender are high.

165. In the design of bridge arguments what considerations

should be made to select the orientation of the wing walls?

Some of the most common arrangements of wing walls in cases of

bridge arguments are as follows:

Wing walls parallel to abutments: This method is considered to

take least amount of time to build and is simple as well. But on
the downside this method is not the most economical. The
advantage of this type of design being that they cause the
least amount of disturbance to the slope embankment.
Wing walls at an angle to abutments: This design method is
considered to be the most economical in terms of material
cost.
Wing walls perpendicular to abutments: The characteristic of
this design is it provides an alignment continuous with the
bridge decks lending a support to the parapets.

166. In case if concrete box girder bridges how is the number of

cells determined?

When the depth of a box girder bridge exceed 1/6th or 1/5th of the
bridge width then the design recommended is that of a single cell
box girder bridge. But in case the depth of the bridge is lower than
1/6th of the bridge width then a twin-cell or in some cases multiple
cell is the preferred choice. One should also note that even in the
cases of wider bridges where there depths are comparatively low
the number of cells should be minimized. This is so as there is
noticeably not much improvement in the transverse load
distribution when the number of cells of the box girder is higher
than three or more.

167. Under what circumstances should pot bearings be used

instead of elastomeric bearings?

Pot bearings are preferred over elastomeric bearings in situations

where there are chances of high vertical loads in combinations of
very large angle of rotations. Elastomeric bearings always require a
large bearing surface so that a compression is maintained between
the contact surfaces in between the piers and the bearings. This is
not possible to maintained in high load and rotation environment.
Also the usage of elastomeric bearings leads to the uneven
distribution of stress on the piers. This results in some highly
induced stresses to be targeted at the piers henceforth damaging
them. Due to the above reasons pot bearings are preferred over
elastomeric bearings in such cases.

168. Why should pumping be not used in case of concreting

works?

During the pumping operation the pump exerted pressure must

overcome any friction between the pumping pipes and the concrete,
also the weight of the concrete and the pressure head when the
concrete is placed above the pumps. Since only water is pump able,
all the pressure generated is by the water that is present in the
concrete. The major problem due to pumping are segregation
effects and bleeding. In order to rectify and reduce these effects,
generally the proportion of the cement is increased in order to
increase the cohesion , which leads to the reduction of segregation
and bleeding. Also if a proper selection of the aggregate grading can
vastly improve the concrete pump ability.

169. Why should curing not be done by ponding and polythene

sheets?
The primary purpose of curing is to reduce the heat loss of concrete
that is freshly placed to the atmosphere and in order to reduce the
temperature gradient across the cross-section of the concrete.
Ponding is not preferred for curing as this method of thermal curing
is greatly affected by cold winds. In addition to that in ponding large
amounts of water is used and has to be disposed off from the
construction sites. Polythene sheets are used on the basis that it
creates an airtight environment around the concrete surface
henceforth reducing the chances of evaporation over fresh concrete
surfaces. But the usage of polythene can be a drawback as it can be
easily blown away by winds and also the water lost by self-
desiccation cannot be replenished.

170. What are the steps involved in the concreting process,

explain?

The major steps involved in the process of concreting are as follows:

1. Batching
2. Mixing
3. Transporting and placing of concrete
4. Compacting.

1. Batching: The process of measurement of the different

materials for the making of concrete is known as batching.
batching is usually done in two ways: volume batching and
weight batching. In case of volume batching the measurement
is done in the form of volume whereas in the case of weight
batching it is done by the weight.
2. Mixing: In order to create good concrete the mixing of the
materials should be first done in dry condition and after it wet
condition. The two general methods of mixing are: hand mixing
and machine mixing.
3. Transportation and placing of concrete: Once the concrete
mixture is created it must be transported to its final location.
The concrete is placed on form works and should always be
dropped on its final location as closely as possible.
4. Compaction of concrete: When concrete is placed it can have
air bubbles entrapped in it which can lead to the reduction of
the strength by 30%. In order to reduce the air bubbles the
 process of compaction is performed. Compaction is generally
performed in two ways: by hand or by the use of vibrators.

171. Describe briefly the various methods of concrete curing.

Curing is the process of maintaining the moisture and temperature

conditions for freshly deployed concrete. This is done for small
duration of time to allow the hardening of concrete. The methods
that are involved in saving the shrinkage of the concrete includes:
(a) Spraying of water: on walls, and columns can be cured by
sprinkling water.
(b) Wet covering of surface: can be cured by using the surface with
wet gunny bags or straw
(c) Ponding: the horizontal surfaces including the slab and floors can
be cured by stagnating the water.
(d) Steam curing: of pre-fabricated concrete units steam can be
cured by passing it over the units that are under closed chambers. It
allows faster curing process and results in faster recovery.
(e) Application of curing compounds: compounds having calcium
chloride can be applied on curing surface. This keeps the surface wet
for a very long time.

172. What do you understand by “preset” during the installation

process of bridge bearings?

During the installation of bridge bearings the size of the upper

plates is reduced to save the material costs. This process is known as
preset. Generally the upper bearing plate comprises of the following
components:

Length of bearing
2 x irreversible movement.
2 x reversible movement.

The bearing initially is placed right in the middle point of the upper
bearing plate. No directional effects of irreversible movement is
considered. But since the irreversible movement usually takes place
in one direction only the displaced direction is placed away from the
midpoint. In such cases the length of the upper plate is equal to the
length of the length of the bearing + irreversible movement + 2 x
reversible movement.

173. Why are steel plates inserted inside bearings in elastomeric

bearings?

In order to make a elastomeric bearing act/ function as a soft spring

it should be made to allow it to bulge laterally and also the stiffness
compression can be increased by simply increasing the limiting
amount of the lateral bulging. In many cases in order to increase the
compression stiffness of the bearing the usage of metal plates is
made. Once steel plates are included in the bearings the freedom of
the bulge is restricted dramatically, also the deflection of the
bearing is reduced as compared to a bearing without the presence
of steel plates. The tensile stresses of the bearings are induced into
the steel plates. But the presence of the metal plates does not
affect the shear stiffness of the bearings.

174. What reinforcements are used in the process of

prestressing?

The major types of reinforcements used in prestressing are:

Spalling Reinforcement: The spalling stresses leads to stress

behind the loaded area of the anchor blocks. This results in the
breaking off of the surface concrete. The most likely causes of
such types of stresses are Poisson`s effects strain
interoperability or by the stress trajectory shapes.
Equilibrium reinforcements: This type of reinforcements are
required where several anchorages exist where the
prestressing loads are applied in a sequential manner.
Bursting Reinforcements: These kinds of stresses occur in
cases where the stress trajectories are concave towards the
line of action of load. In order to reduce such stresses
reinforcements in the form of bursting is required.

175. How cracks in concrete can be avoided?

176. 28 Days Strength of Concrete (1:2:4)?

177. Strength of brick?

178. what is Brest Wall?

179. what is Brick crushing strength(PSI)?

180. what is Bearing Capacity,How to determine it?

181. How much is the curing time period?

182. How many types of slabs are there & how to design it?

183. How many are the types of joints?

184. Why joints are provided?

185. How many bricks are there in 100cft?

186. Types Of DPC and its Thickness used?

187. How many bricks are there in 100 cft?

188. Which are the Steel tests ?

189. How much is the cover for slab?

190. What is packing Factor ?

191. Forces in a Shear Wall are in plane or out of plane ?

192. What is fineness modulus ? and its sieve # ?

193. What is Base Shear ?

194. What is Time period of a building and its relation with

frequency ?

195. There are two buildings one taller and one shorter whose time
period will be grater and similarly the frequency ?
196. Define Work ability ?

197. Sulfate Resisting Cement ?

198. Special thing in designing a overhead reservoir ? which is

different from an ordinary design

199. Maximum %age of Steel in columns and beams ?

200.Types of foundation?

Posted on March 20, 2019 by engineer 20 Comments

Posted in CIVIL ENGINEER Questions