1. Define What is Civil Engineering ?

Civil engineering is arguably the oldest engineering discipline. It deals with the designed setting and may be dated to
the primary time somebody placed a roof over his or her head or set a stalk across a stream to form it easier to urge
across. The designed setting encompasses abundant of what defines fashionable civilization. Buildings and bridges area
unit usually the 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 subdisciplines. Roads, railroads, subway systems, and
airports area unit designed by transportation engineers, another class of engineering. so there area unit the less 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 environmental engineering. These few examples illustrate that civil
engineers do lots quite style buildings and bridges. they’ll be found within the region business, coming up with jetliners
and house stations; within the automotive 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?

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 much significant relating to deflection of certain materials used in the construction industry. Take
for example the general E value of mild carbon steel is about 200 Gpa compared to about 70 Gpa for aluminum. This
simply translate that aluminum is 3 times flexible than steel.

4. Define What is the difference between routing

maintenance and major maintenance in school
facilities?
The routine maintenance is the minor and consistent
repairs 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 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.
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 reemitted
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.
CIVIL ENGINEERING Interview
Questions
7. How do you measure concrete?
Cubic feet, Cubic yards, Cubic Meter

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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.
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

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enable it support or carry more load.
Two common examples are:
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)
1.
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)
2.
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.
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”.

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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.
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.

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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?

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Bridges, hydraulic presses, burners trains
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.

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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 compressive 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 anisotropic, 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.
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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 Boulett, 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

1
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:
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.
1.
Quality Control: A set of activities designed to
evaluate a developed work product.
2.
Testing is the process of executing a system with the
intent of finding defects. (Note that the “process of
executing a system” includes test plaing prior to the
execution of the test cases.)
3.
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 chael to cross the
valley, but even this chael 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 chael around the hill, dig a trench
through the hill, or dig a tuel 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 chael is that specific tuel
segments, the Romans could build the tuel 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
tuel strong enough to withstand the increased water

1
pressure within the siphon. Note, however, that except for
gaining a little bit of elevation if you slow down fast-moving
water, you normally caot 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 detiorating
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.

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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 persoel 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

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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 tuel in a dam?
When a dam is to be built, a diversion tuel 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 tuel.
CIVIL ENGINEERING Interview Questions Book pdf
download::
51. What distance in meters on the ground is the

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equivalent of one second of arc in longitude or
latitude?
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.
1.
Lines of latitude are at regular intervals parallel to the
equator. The relationship between degrees of latitude
and the distance spaed on the earth’s surface
remains constant. Therefore at all latitudes 1 minute of
latitude spans 1 nautical mile on the earths surface.
2.
Lines of longitude converge at the poles. Therefore, the
relationship between degrees of longitude and the
distance spaed on the earth’s surface is reduced as
the poles are approached.
3.
At the equator, the distance spaed 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.
4.
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.
5.
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.

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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 maer, 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,

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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
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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

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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

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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

2
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
chaels, and tuels as required to get the water from the
source to the end users. Some good examples:
Roman engineers built aqueducts throughout Italy and
France from mountain water sources to serve city
dwellers
1.
Water-needy Southern California cities and farms are
served by an aqueduct that brings them water from
sources in Northern California
2.
New York City is supplied by an aqueduct and tuel
system from sources upstate.
3.
Inca farmers in coastal valleys built irrigation
aqueducts from sources higher up in the Rockies
4.
Native American cultures in Phoenix area built
irrigation canal systems that diverted water from
sources at higher elevations to irrigate their crops.
5.
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

2
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
plaing 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

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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 aoying
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 chael 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 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

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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.

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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.

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108. What are the different types of foundation?
Three main types of foundation are
Basement: In this a basement is prepared first on top
of it building is constructed
1.
Crawl space: A crawl space is a raised foundation, it
is built above the ground, just allowing enough space to
crawl underneath
2.
Slab: In this foundation, concrete is directly poured
into the pit made in the ground.
3.
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?

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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 coections
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

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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.

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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 inhouse
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

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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
Basic knowledge of computer and architect related
software programs
2.
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 plaing 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

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

3
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

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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
Uneveess 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 ier 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

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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?
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
1.
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.
2.
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

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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)
Plaing and feasibility studies
Construction ( Material, equipment, and labor)
Construction financing ( Bank loan)
Insurance and taxes during construction

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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 halfrounds
chaels 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

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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 fencings are made to contain vehicles in
their carriageway being travelled so as to reduce the chances
of rebounding into the roads leading to more hazards. In the
case of normal fencings upon vehicle crashes the fencings
give away so as to absorb as much energy as possible

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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 subbase.
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.

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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

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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

4
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

4
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

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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

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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 twincell
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

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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 crosssection
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 caot 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

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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.
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.
2.
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.
3.
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.
4.
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 guy 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.

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(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.

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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 maer.
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?
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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 Workability ?
197.Sulphate 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?