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MAR BASELIOS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

(AUTONOMOUS)
MAR IVANIOS VIDYANAGAR
NALANCHIRA, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – 695015

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES
LABORATORY RECORD
YEAR ________________

COURSE CODE: ____________________________________________________

COURSE NAME: ____________________________________________________

NAME: ____________________________________________________________

REG NO.: __________________________________________________________

SEMESTER AND BRANCH: __________________________________________

ROLL NO.: ___________________ BATCH: ______________________________

FROM PAGE NO.: ______ TO PAGE NO.: _______

Certified Bonafide Record of work done by

_______________________________________________________________

Thiruvananthapuram

Date: ____________ Faculty in-Charge


Construction Practices Laboratory Record

INDEX
Sl. Page
Date Exercise Remarks
No. No.

Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 2


Construction Practices Laboratory Record

Date:
EXERCISE 1
AREA COMPUTATION

Aim

To compute the area of the given plot using tape, EDM etc.

Instruments required

Tape, Electronic Distance Measuring Device

Theory

Surveying irregular and large land tracts can be done by various methods. While some
methods are simple and based on basic geometry, others are complex and may involve GPS
and satellite imagery. Land needs to be measured for various reasons like prior to purchase,
when doing stock taking, building a boundary wall, dispute with a neighbor over
demarcation, etc. Measuring regular land areas like residential plots is easy as they have
mostly rectangle or other geometrical shapes. If the area of land is irregularly shaped, the
land needs to be surveyed and plotted to scale. The plan of the plot can then be subdivided
into regular geometric figures to find the area.

Procedure

To calculate the area of a plot, the general methods used are described in the following
section.

Rectangular or Square land

● Measure the length (L) and width (W) of the land in feet or meters.
● Area of the plot, A = L × W square units (e.g., square feet or square meters).

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Triangular land

B
● Measure the base (B) and the height (H) of the triangle in feet or meters.
𝐵×𝐻
● Area of the plot, 𝐴 = square units.
2
Trapezoidal land
a

b
● Measure the short side (a), long side (b) and the height (h) of the plot in feet or meters.
ℎ(𝑎+𝑏)
● Area of the plot, 𝐴 = square units.
2

Circular shaped land

● Measure the radius (R) of the circle in feet or meters.


● Area of the plot, A = π × R2 square units.

Irregular land D
E

F C

B
A
Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 4
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The area is divided into many triangles, and the area of each triangle is calculated. The total
area of the plot will then be equal to the sum of the areas of individual triangles. The figure
shows an area divided into several triangles. For fieldwork, transit may be set up at 0, and
the lengths and directions of each of the lines OA, OB etc. may be measured. The area of
each triangle can then be computed. In addition, the sides AB, BC, etc. can also be
measured and a check may be applied by calculating the area from the three known sides
of a triangle. Thus, if two sides and one included angle of a triangle (say ΔAOB) are
measured, the area of the triangle is given by,

Area = 0.5 OA OB Sin(AOB)

When the lengths of the three sides of a triangle (say ΔBOC) are measured, its area is
computed by the equation.

Area = √(s (s − OB) (s – OC) (s – BC))


s = half perimeter = 0.5 (OB + OC + BC).

The method is suitable only for work of small nature where the determination of the closing
error of the figure is not important, and hence the computation of latitudes and departure is
unnecessary. The accuracy of the field work, in such cases, may be determined by
measuring the diagonal in the field and comparing its length to the computed length.

Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 5


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Observations and Calculations


Rough Sketch

Result
Area of the plot =

Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 6


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Date:
EXERCISE 2
LEVELLING

Aim

To plot the longitudinal section of the ground surface along the center-line of a road.

Instruments required

Dumpy level, leveling staff, tripod, tape

Theory

Profile leveling is a method of surveying that is carried out along the central line of a tract
of land on which a linear engineering work is to be constructed. The fixed line is generally
the centerline of a highway, railway, canal, sewer or any other such utility along which the
leveling is done to determine the elevations of the ground surface. The ground profiles are
used for the study of the relationship between the existing ground levels and the levels of
the proposed route.

Procedure

Initially, an instrument station has to be chosen (I1), such that a maximum number of points
are visible from it. The legs of the tripod should be firmly fixed on the ground and the
dumpy level is to be fixed on top of the tripod stand. After that temporary adjustments has
to be made to the dumpy level using the foot screws. The bubble is to be made central in
all directions. Focusing on the eyepiece and objective is to be done next.

In carrying out profile leveling, the first sight (backsight) can be taken on a B.M. Then,
observations are taken at regular intervals (say at 1, 2, 3, 4) along the central line and last
sight (foresight) to a properly selected change point (say CP1). The instrument is to be re-
positioned to some other convenient location (say I2). After the temporary adjustments of
the instrument, observations are started from CP1 and then at regular intervals (say at 5, 6,
etc) terminating at another turning point or end point of the survey. Staff readings can be
taken at salient points where marked changes in slope occur (X). The distances of lines are
also measured.

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Fig 1. Section showing profile levelling about datum.


Observations and calculations

Exercise No.: Instrument No.:


Locality: Date:

Observations Remarks
(Bench
Height of Reduced Mark,
Station Distance Instrument level Change
Back Inter- Fore
(H.I.) (R.L.) Point,
sight mediate sight
End
(B.S.) sight (I.S.) (F.S.)
Point)

Bench
Mark

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Calculations

Height of Instrument (H.I.) = R.L. of Bench mark + B.S.

R.L. of a point = Height of Instrument – F.S./I.S. towards the point

Plotting of the profile

 Plotting of profile leveling provides a graphical representation of the ground points


on a longitudinal section along the alignment.
 It is being used to determine the depth of cutting or filling on the proposed gradient
(for highways, railways, canals, etc.), to study grade crossing problems, to select
appropriate grade, to locate depth of sewer, tunnels etc.
 In this, a datum line is drawn along which distance of the stakes are marked and
reduced levels are plotted along vertical lines drawn on the marked points.
 Segmented straight lines joining the reduced level points represent the longitudinal
profile of the ground surface.
 Profiles are generally drawn so that the vertical scale is much larger than the
horizontal scale in order to accentuate the differences of elevations.

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Calculations

Check

∑B.S. - ∑F.S.=R.L. of Last point – R.L. of First point

Result

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Profile of the section

Scale

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Date:
EXERCISE 3
SETTING OUT OF A BUILDING

Aim

To set out a building for the given plan using tape and cross staff.

Instruments required

Tape, cross staff, pegs, nails, rope.

Theory

A building is set out in order to clearly define the outline of the excavation and the
centerline of the walls, so that construction can be carried out exactly according to the plan.
The center line method of setting out is generally preferred and adopted. One of the most
important procedures used in setting out is the process of ensuring that all right angle
corners are square. One of the simplest ways is to use a method known as the 3:4:5 triangle
method. If performed accurately, this method can be totally relied upon to create a true 90º
angle.

Procedure

The first step in setting out a building is to establish a base (or frontage line) line to which
all other lines can be related. This requires the building line to be identified and marked.
The baseline is often on the building line, set by the planning department of the local
authority. The position of the building line will normally be given as a distance from the
center of the road, the kerb line or existing buildings. Two square offset lines are to be set
from the kerb to the position of the building line at a distance apart which is greater than
the width of the proposed building. Pegs have to be positioned at these points, and a ranging
line is fixed to these, giving the position of the building line (Fig. 1).

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Fig 1. Position of building line.

For fixing the frontage line, the first corner peg (A) is to be positioned by taking dimensions
on the drawing which relate to site features such as kerb, gate posts, boundary intersections
etc. Then the second peg (B) is to be positioned after carefully measuring the width of the
building (or room).

Fig 2. Establishing a line at 90º to the frontage line

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Fig 3. Right angled walls to frontage line.

Next step is to set out the first right to the frontage line. For this, first a peg with a nail is
fixed exactly 3m from a corner peg on the frontage line (Peg E). A measuring tape is then
hooked to the nail on the corner peg and another tape is hooked to the nail of peg E. Both
tapes have to be pulled towards the end wall line, and with a distance of 4m showing on
one tape and 5m on the other tape, the tapes are crossed. Where they cross, a third peg with
a nail has to be fixed in place (Peg F). This established a line at 90º to the front line. When
all the sides of the tape are stretched, a triangle of 3m:4m:5m would be formed and the
angle to the front line forms a right angle (Fig. 2). From the plan, the center-line distances
of the walls have to be calculated. The line set using the 3:4:5 method is to be extended by
stretching a rope and the end of the centerline of this can be marked using a peg (Peg D).
Thus, the corner point obtained from the wall can be marked by a peg with nails on top and
the centre line is shown clearly by stretching rope.

Then to set out the second right angle wall to the frontage line, the same length of the
building’s frontage line is to be measured and a peg (C) is set at the same distance from the
frontage line as peg D.

Check

The setting out was confirmed as square if all the measurements were correct and the
diagonals measured exactly the same.

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Width of excavation

From the plan details, the width of excavation to be done was also marked by thread with
pegs at appropriate positions. The excavation width was then marked by lime or by furrow
with spade.

Result

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Fig.4 Building Plan and center line drawing for setting out

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Fig.5 Fixing right angled wall line about a base line and other grid lines.

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Date:
EXERCISE 4
1½ THICK BRICK WALL IN ENGLISH BOND

Aim

To construct a 1½ thick brick wall of 50 cm height and 60 cm length using English bond
(without mortar) and to estimate the number of bricks required for the given wall.

Instruments required

Wire cut bricks, ¾ brick bat, plumb bob.

Theory

Brick is one of the oldest building materials and it is extensively used because of its
durability, strength, reliability, low cost, easy availability etc. Brick masonry is the art of
building structures using bricks or the systematic arrangement of laying bricks and bonding
them with mortar to form a unified mass which can transmit the superimposed load without
failure. Brick masonry is used for the construction of foundation, walls, retaining walls,
columns, culverts, floors etc. The strength of masonry depends upon the quality of brick
and type of mortar used.

English bond is the commonly used type of bond in all modes of construction. Alternate
courses of headers and stretchers are placed. If the wall thickness is an even multiple of
half brick, the same course shows header or stretcher in both front & back elevations.

Fig. 1 Elevation of 1½ thick brick wall

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Fig. 2 Plan of 1½ thick brick wall


Procedure
 The surface where the brick bond is to be laid is cleaned and levelled.
 Alternate courses of headers and stretchers are placed. For the workshop class, a
dry masonry is made, without any mortar joints.
 A queen closer is placed after the first header in the header course to stagger the
vertical joints of successive courses.
 The verticality of the bond is maintained using plumb bob or level tube.
 Laying the bricks in the given pattern is continued till the wall height reaches 50
cm.
 The thickness of the wall is to be maintained as 1½ brick or 30cm for 1½ thick brick
wall.
A line is described by two points, the start point and the end point, and the shortest distance
between two points is a straight line. A string line can be used between two points (nails or
blocks etc.) and pulled, to make it straight, with no sag. This string is used as a reference
to complete the work. Plumb bob is used to maintain the verticality of the wall. Spirit level
is used to check the horizontal level of construction.

Fig.3 Aligning using a taut string and checking verticality using Plumb bob.

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Rough Sketch

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Observations and calculations

Length of the Wall =

Width of the Wall =

Wall thickness =

Volume of the wall, Vw =

Number of bricks required =

Result

a) Plan and Elevation of the 1½ Thick Brick Wall Constructed

b) Number of bricks required for the given wall =

Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 21


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Date:
EXERCISE 5
CASTING OF PAVER BLOCKS USING CONCRETE AND TEST FOR STRENGTH

Aim

To cast concrete paver block specimens and test the mechanical properties of the same.

Instruments required

Paver block mould, trowel, mixing tray, measuring jar, oil can etc.

Theory

Paver blocks, a popular landscaping material, are widely used for various outdoor
applications. These versatile precast concrete blocks come in different shapes, sizes,
colours, and textures, offering durability and aesthetic appeal.

Fig 1. Paver blocks in different shapes, sizes, colours, and textures.

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Observations and calculations

Size of Paver Block =

Area of Specimen =

Volume of Paver Block =

Number =

Total Volume =

Density =

Weight of cement =

Weight of sand =

Weight of 6mm aggregate =

Maximum Load applied =

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Manufacturing process

Paver blocks are casted in different moulds having different shapes. The moulds are made
of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) rubber and made to enable easy removal of the specimens
from the moulds. The mould is coated with a thin film of mould oil before use, to prevent
adhesion of the concrete. A steel tamping bar with a bullet pointed end is used for tamping.

Compacting

The test specimens are made as soon as practicable after mixing to produce a fully
compacted concrete. The concrete is filled in the moulds in layers approximately 2 cm.
deep. Each layer is hand compacted using the tamping bar with equally spaced strokes
distributed over the cross section of the mould. For specimens, concrete should be subjected
to not less than 25 strokes per layer. The strokes shall penetrate into the underlying layer
and the bottom layer is rodded throughout its depth. The filled up surface is finished smooth
and level using a trowel.

Curing

The test specimens are stored in moist air for 24 hours and after this period the specimens
are marked and removed from the moulds and kept submerged in clear fresh water until
testing.

Testing

Testing is made at recognized ages of the test specimen, the most usual being 7 and 28
days. The ages are calculated from the time of addition of water to the dry ingredients.

Precautions: The water for curing should be tested every 7 days and the temperature of
water must be maintained at 27+ 2 °C.

Procedure

(i) Control mix - M30

The quantity of cement, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate and water required to prepare
concrete mix of proportion 1: 0.75:1.5 by weight with water - cement ratio 0.45 for casting
2 blocks (20 x 20 x 6 cm) is calculated. These materials are collected and kept ready. The

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measured quantity of cement and fine aggregate is mixed dry until the mixture is
thoroughly blended and is uniform in colour. The coarse aggregate is then added to this
and mixed until the coarse aggregate is uniformly dispersed. The water is then added and
the entire batch mixed until concrete appears to be homogeneous and has desired
consistency.

Synthetic or natural pigments maybe used in concrete mix to obtain paver blocks with
desired shades of colours. The pigment used should result in durable colours of paver
blocks. It shall not contain matters detrimental to concrete. Pigments, either singly or in
combination.

(ii) Paver block with Recycled aggregate

Recycled aggregates are aggregates produced from the processing of previously used
construction materials such as concrete or masonry. They consist of hard, graduated
fragments of inert mineral materials, including sand, gravel, crushed stone, slag, rock dust,
or powder. Concrete recycling is gaining importance as it protects natural resources and
eliminates the need for disposal by using readily available concrete as an aggregate source
for new concrete or other applications.

The same mix proportion is adopted but here to include the sustainability factor we try to
partially replace the aggregates with recycled aggregate or aggregate from building
demolition waste. Aggregates can be replaced in the percentage of 10, 20 and 30 of the
actual weight of aggregate, as a trial mix.

Result

Compressive strength of M30 mix = N/𝑚𝑚2

Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 25


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Date:
EXERCISE 6
TESTS FOR STRENGTH OF VARIOUS TYPES OF BUILDING BLOCKS

Aim

To determine the compressive strength or the crushing strength of burnt clay building
bricks, hollow bricks and autoclaved aerated concrete block

Instruments required

Compression testing machine

(i) Procedure for determining the compressive strength of bricks

Preconditioning

Remove unevenness observed in the bed faces to provide two smooth parallel faces by
grinding. Immerse in water at room temperature for 24 hours. Remove the specimen and
drain out any surplus moisture at room temperature. Store it for 24 hours in clean water for
3 days. Remove and wipe out any traces of moisture. The dimensions of the specimen have
to be measured to the nearest 1 mm.

 The specimen was placed with flat faces horizontal between plywood sheets each
of 3 mm thickness and carefully centered between plates of the testing machine.
 A load was applied axially at a uniform rate of 14 N/mm2 per minute till failure
occurred.
 The load at failure, which is the maximum load at which the specimen fails to
produce any further increase in the indicator reading on the testing machine, was
noted.
 The procedure was repeated for at least 3 samples of brick and the average of the
compressive strength which is maximum load at failure divided by the average area
of bed faces was taken.

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Observations and calculations

Maximum load at failure (N)


Compressive Strength =
Average area of bed faces (𝑚𝑚2 )

Observation table for bricks

Specimen No. Maximum Load at Contact area Compressive


Failure (N) (mm2) Strength (N/mm2)

IS specifications for bricks

The bricks when tested in accordance with the procedure as per IS 3495: 1992 shall have
an average compressive strength for various classes as given in the table.

Class designation Average compressive Strength (N/mm2)

350 35 to 40

300 30 to 35

250 25 to 30

200 20 to 25

175 17.5 to 20

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150 15 to 17.5

125 12.5 to 15

100 10 to 12.5

75 7.5 to 10

50 5 to 7.5

35 3.5 to 5

(ii) Procedure for determining the compressive strength of hollow bricks

 The unevenness observed in the bed faces was removed to provide two smooth
parallel faces by grinding and the dimensions of the specimen was measured to the
nearest 1mm.
 The specimen was placed such that the centroid of their bearing faces aligned
vertically with the center of thrust of the testing machine.
 The load was applied axially at any convenient rate up to half of the expected
maximum load, after which the load was applied at a uniform rate such that the
remaining load was applied in not less than one minute and not more than two
minutes.
 The load at failure, which is the maximum load at which the specimen fails to
produce any further increase in the indicator reading on the testing machine, was
noted.
 The procedure was repeated for at least 3 samples of hollow brick and the average
of the compressive strength which is maximum load at failure divided by the gross
cross sectional area of the unit was taken.

(iii) Procedure for determining the compressive strength of autoclaved aerated


concrete (AAC) block

 The specimen was placed with flat faces horizontal between plywood sheets each
of 3 mm thickness and carefully centered between plates of the testing machine

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 A load was applied axially at a uniform rate of 14 N/mm2 per minute till failure
occurred.
 The load at failure, which is the maximum load at which the specimen fails to
produce any further increase in the indicator reading on the testing machine, was
noted.
 The procedure was repeated for at least 3 samples of brick and the average of the
compressive strength which is maximum load at failure divided by the average area
of bed faces was taken.

Observations and calculations for Hollow Bricks

Maximum load at failure (N)


Compressive Strength =
Average area of bed faces (𝑚𝑚2 )

Observation table for Hollow Bricks

Specimen No. Maximum Load at Cross sectional Compressive


Failure area (mm2) Strength (N/mm2)

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IS Specification for Hollow bricks

As per IS 2185:2005, the average compressive strength of each class should not be less
than the value specified as in the table.

Type Grade Density of Blocks Minimum average


compressive
Strength (N/mm2)

Hollow (open and A (3.5) Not less than 1500 3.5


closed cavity) load
A (4.5) 4.5
bearing unit

A (5.5) 5.5

A (7.0) 7.0

A (8.5) 8.5

A (10.0) 10.0

A (12.0) 12.5

A (15.0) 15.0

B (3.5) Less than 1500 but 3.5


not less than 1100
B (5.0) 5.0

Observations and calculations for ACC bricks

Maximum load at failure (N)


Compressive Strength =
Average area of bed faces (𝑚𝑚2 )

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Observation table for ACC bricks

Specimen No. Maximum Load at Cross sectional Compressive


Failure area (mm2) Strength (N/mm2)

IS specifications for autoclaved aerated concrete block

As per IS 2185-3(1984), the average compressive strength of each class should not be less
than the value specified as in the table.

Density in overlay Compressive strength Min*( N/mm2)


conditions Grade 1 Grade 2

451 to 550 2.0 1.5


551 to 650 4.0 3.0
651 to 750 5.0 4.0
751 to 850 6.0 5.0
851 to 1000 7.0 6.0

Result

Average value of compressive strength of burnt clay building bricks =

Average value of compressive strength of hollow bricks =

Average value of compressive strength of AAC bricks =

Inference

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Date:
EXERCISE 7

STUDY ON PLUMBING AND INSTALL PLUMBING FIXTURES LIKE TAP,

T-JOINT, ELBOW, BEND, THREADING, etc.

Plumbing is any system that conveys fluids for a wide range of applications. Plumbing uses
pipes, valves, plumbing fixtures, tanks, and other apparatuses to convey fluids. Heating and
cooling (HVAC), waste removal, and potable water delivery are among the most common
uses for plumbing, but it is not limited to these applications. The major categories of
plumbing systems or subsystems are:

● Potable cold and hot tap water supply


● Plumbing drainage venting
● Sewage systems and septic systems with or without hot water heat recycling and
graywater recovery and treatment systems
● Rainwater, surface, and subsurface water drainage
● Fuel gas piping
● Hydronics, i.e. heating and cooling systems utilizing water to transport thermal
energy, as in district heating systems

PLUMBING TOOLS

Pipe wrenches

Used in pairs, one to grip the pipe and the other to turn the fitting, pipe wrenches have
adjustable, toothed jaws designed for gripping and turning threaded pipes and pipe fittings.

Hacksaw

Able to cut nearly all types of pipe, from steel to plastic, a hacksaw has a removable 10- or
12-inch-long, fine-toothed blade that’s held taut by an adjustable steel frame.

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Pipe cutter

Two types of pipe cutters can be helpful for do-it-yourself jobs. First, a plastic tubing cutter,
which looks similar to a pair of pruning shears, can make quick cuts through rigid and
flexible plastic tubing such as sprinkler pipe. Second, a pipe cutter with a sharp cutting
wheel and an adjustable jaw grips onto a copper or steel pipe; you rotate it around the pipe,
repeatedly tightening it until it cuts all the way through.

Pipe vice

A pipe vice is fitted on the work-bench. This has a set of jaws to grip the pipe and prevent
it from turning while cutting, threading and fitting of bends, couplings etc. The yoke vice
is commonly used in plumbing used in plumbing practice.

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Dies

It is used for cutting external thread on pipes. Threads are produced in various shape and
sizes which are used for fitting inside a handle.

PIPES IN PLUMBING

Pipes are used for carrying gas, cold and hot water, and other liquids from one place to
another safely. Different types of pipes are used in different circumstances.

For plumbing and water supply, some of the commonly used and best pipes are as under:

Type of pipe Use


Cast iron pipe Used for city water-distribution systems because of its high
resistance to corrosion and consequent long life.
G I pipe Used for conveying raw water & distribution of treated
water in the majority of rural water supply schemes, where
the requirement of water is less.
Wrought iron pipe Used to carry water, gas or certain other liquid from one
place to another.
Steel pipe Used to carry water, gas or certain other liquid from one
place to the other under pressure.
Copper pipe Generally used to carry hot water or steam.
Plastic pipe Used for the supply of water, acidic water, and alkaline
water. Hot water should not be carried out.
Asbestos cement pipe Used to carry water under low pressure.
Concrete pipe Used even in low as well as high pressure. Plain concrete
pipes are made for low pressure, and R. C. C. ( Reinforced
Cement Concrete) pipes are made for high pressure.
Vitrified clay pipe Not often used as pressure pipe, but is widely used in
sewerage and drainage for flow at partial depth.
Lead Pipe These pipes are highly corrosion resistant and flexible.
Taps and stop-cocks in buildings are available from iron,
brass and chromium plated varieties.

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PLUMBING CONNECTIONS

Adaptor

Adaptors connect pipes that are not the same type. Because an adaptor can be male or
female on one end, it can turn a pipe male or female. If ends are non-threaded, they are left
to be welded, soldered or glued to the pipe. Adaptors are used for PVC and copper piping.

Coupling

A coupling makes it easy to connect two pipes that have the same diameter and are the
same type. It’s also used to repair a broken or leaking pipe. Along with a normal coupling,
two other types are the compression coupling and slip coupling.

Elbow

Not surprisingly, this sort of fitting has a bend that reminds you of the arm joint. They help
the flow of water change direction. Elbows come in several degrees, including 22.5, 45,
and 90 degrees. Reducer elbow variations also exist for when the piping diameters being
connected are different. Elbow fittings can be made of different materials, and most are
female.

Tee

A tee is a fitting that has one side outlet at a right angle to the run. It is used for a single
outlet branch pipe.

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Cross

A cross fitting has openings on all four of its ends and can connect four pipes. Cross fittings
come with three inlets and an outlet or three outlets and an inlet.

Double Tapped Bushing

This is a type of nipple, but it has threading on both the inside and the outside. Because this
center hole is threaded (tapped) from both top and bottom, it’s referred to as double-tapped.
A double tapped bushing is also a type of reducer, but does not have a reducer’s flexibility.
A double tapped bushing is usually female.

Nipple

This is a short fitting that can be made of metals such as copper, brass or steel or chlorinated
polyvinyl chloride (CPVC). Instead of connecting two pipes, a nipple connects two fittings.

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Plug and Cap

Plugs and caps are both used to close up pipe openings during inspections and repairs. The
main difference is that a plug is male while a cap is female. Most often, caps and plugs are
threaded.

Reducer

This fitting makes a flow smaller and thus reduces it. Reducers come in two types. The
concentric reducer joins two pipes on the same axis, and the eccentric reducer is used to
join pipes of different diameters. The concentric reducer looks like a cone, while eccentric
reducers look somewhat like bells with offset center lines. They prevent air bubbles in the
pipes.

TRAPS IN PLUMBING

In plumbing, a trap is a device shaped with a bending pipe path to the retain fluid to
prevent sewer gases from entering the building while allowing waste materials to pass
through. In domestic applications, traps are typically U, S, Q, or J – shaped pipe located
below or with in a plumbing fixture. The most common of these traps are referred to as a
P trap. The different types of Traps are as follow:

Floor Traps

Floor trap is provided into the floor to collect waste water from bathroom, wash area,
washbasin, and kitchen sink area etc. It is normally made in 80 mm diameter and the depth
of water seal provided is about 50 mm.

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Gully Trap

A gully trap is provided outside the building before connecting it to external sewerage line.
It also collects waste water from the kitchen sink, wash basins, bath and wash area.

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P, Q and S-Trap

P, Q, and S traps are classified according to their shape. They essentially consist of U –
Tube which retains water acting as seal between the foul gas and atmosphere.

Intercepting Trap

Intercepting trap is provided in to the Interceptor Manhole (Interceptor Chamber). An


Interceptor manhole is provided at the interception of building sewer and Public sewer.
Intercepting trap is provided to prevent the foul gases from public sewers entering in to the
building sewer by providing water seal.

Bottle Trap

A bottle trap is provided to receive waste from washbasin, kitchen sinks and other
appliances where the appliances do not have a built-in trap.

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Grease Trap

Grease trap is installed in the waste pipe from one or more fixtures for the purpose of
separating grease from the liquid and retaining the grease.

VALVES IN PLUMBING

Valves are mechanical devices used to control, direct, and regulate the flow of water by
opening, closing, or partially obstructing the flow. They can be made up of different
materials like bronze, PVC, brass, etc. The different types of valves are as follows:

Gate Valve

Gate valve is the most widely used type of valve in plumbing systems. It includes a wedge-
shaped metal gate that can be lowered (with the use of a twist-type handle or knob) to stop
the flow of water or raised to allow the flow to continue.

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Butterfly valve

This valve has a rotating metal disc that allows and inhibits the water flow, creating an
image similar to that of a butterfly due to which is called a butterfly valve.

Ball Valve

Ball valves are the most reliable and common type of valves used to regulate the flow of
water. It involves a rotating sphere with a hole that is attached to a lever handle to operate
the valve.

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Globe Valve

The Globe valve is commonly used to regulate or limit the water flow in plumbing
applications, where the flow needs to be adjusted regularly.

The interior design features contain a stopper on the end of a valve stem that is raised and
lowered by the valve's twist knob. Globe valves get their name due to the globe-like or ball-
like appearance of their body.

Pressure Relief Valve

Pressure relief valves are used in the plumbing system to reduce water pressure to the
desired limit and protect equipment or piping systems from bursting. The mechanism
consists of a spring and diaphragm adjusted to a specific limit, depending on the pressure
of the water supply.

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PIPE THREADING AND CONNECTIONS

Aim

To cut the threads at the end of the given PVC pipe by using a pipe die and to make the
plumbing connections.

Material required

PVC pipe, Elbows, Tee, Tap, Shower, Valve, Clamps

Tools required

Pipe vice, Die and Die stock, Measuring scale

Fig 1. Turning die to thread the end of a pipe.

Procedure

 The required diameter pipes are picked and cut to the desired length
 The cut pipe is securely clamped in the pipe vice
 Proper size of die stock and die is selected. It is inserted and aligned into the stock
 The die is positioned at one end of the pipe, Pressure is applied and at the same time
die is slowly turned by turning stock handle
 Once the threading is started, applying pressure is stopped and die is continued to
turn till one thread projects through the die
 In the same manner the ends of the pipes are threaded and checked with an elbow
 Then elbow, tee, shower, tap, etc. are fitted to get desired connection and clamped
on the wall

Result

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PLUMBING FIXTURES AND SANITARY FITTINGS

The plumbing system consists of the entire system of piping, fixtures and appliances used
for water supply and drainage. The plumbing water supply system consists of water supply
and distribution pipes, taps, valves, storage tanks etc., while the plumbing drainage system
consists of wash basins, water closets, urinals, traps, soil waste pipes, vent pipes, septic
tanks etc.

The plumbing system is the system of water carried under pressure. A plumbing fixture is
an exchangeable device connected to plumbing to deliver and drain water. Once threading
of pipe end is done, elbow, tee, shower, tap, etc. are fitted to get desired connection and
clamped on the wall.

The most common Plumbing fixtures used in buildings are as follows:

Pipes: Pipes are the Plumbing fixtures provided for carried water. Several types of pipes
are used for carrying the water in plumbing systems. Such as cast iron pipes, wrought iron
pipes, steel pipes, concrete pipes, galvanized iron pipes, copper pipes, etc.

Hose Bib: Hose bibs are the Plumbing fixtures provided in the exterior of the house. Hose
bibs are outdoor faucets that carry water from indoor systems outside.

Tapware: Tapware is the plumbing fixtures provided in an industry. The plumbing fixtures
consist of tap valves, also called water taps or faucets, and their accessories, like water
spouts and showerheads.

Terminal Valves: Terminal valves are the Plumbing fixtures provided in the pipeline to
control water flow. Terminal valves are used for dishwashers, ice makers, humidifiers, etc.

Washbasins: Washbasins are the plumbing fixtures for washing hands and face and
brushing teeth in a standing position. These are generally made of glazed earthenware or
vitreous china. Occasionally these are also made of iron, stainless steel, or plastic.

Water Closet: A water closet is a visage-like water flushed plumbing fixture designed to
admit human excreta directly from the user. It is made of vitreous china or porcelain and is
connected to the soil pipe utilizing a trap. The water closet’s inside face and the trap is
made smooth by glazing to ensure an effective flush.

Bidets: A bidet is a plumbing fixture installed as a separate unit in the bathroom besides
the toilet, shower, and sink.

Kitchen Sinks: inks are the plumbing fixtures handed in kitchens for cleaning utensils. For
cleaning laboratory earthenware, Sinks are also provided in laboratories.

Bathtubs: Bathtubs are the plumbing fixtures handed in the bathrooms for taking a bath.
These are generally made of glazed earthenware cement concrete finished with terrazzo or

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glazed porcelain tiles or marble titles and enameled iron. For draining, the bathtubs are
handed with an indirect waste hole at the bottom.

Showers: Showers are the Plumbing fixtures provided in the bathrooms.

Urinals: Urinals are the plumbing fixtures handed to urinate.

Flush Cisterns: Flushing cisterns are the plumbing fixtures for flushing out water closets
and urinals. These are cast iron, glazed earthenware or vitreous china, or plastic.

PROCEDURE OF INSTALLATION

The act of placing or fixing in position a plumbing fixture such as a washbasin, a water
closet, etc. Installation is an important step in fixing the components of a system as per the
design. During the installation of a plumbing system in a building, home or a housing
colony, planning is done as per the standard procedure of designing. A good installation
system prevents water leakage, allows optimum installation of the money spent and
enhances the life of the plumbing fixtures. Instructions for installation are given either by
the manufacturer on one’s own or the specifications in the construction map.

If the standard procedure is followed during the installation of the plumbing system, it
allows for smooth and efficient functioning of the system.

Important points before installation

Read the plumbing drawing- Study the drawing of the bathroom, washroom, kitchen or
other places where installation is to be done. The drawing will help the Plumber General to
understand various aspects of plumbing fittings, fixtures, distance and height to be
maintained during installation.

Install the basic sanitary fixture- Fittings (faucets and valves) are used more often than
any other part of the plumbing system. The best modern fittings selected should use
chrome-plated brass as it bears the effect of water quality and has a high durability. They
can be cleaned easily with soap and warm water.

Protection against backflow- The supply lines and fittings for every plumbing fixture
should be installed in such a way that there is no backflow. There may be a backflow due
to improper design.

Access for cleaning- Plumbing fixtures should be installed in such a way that they can
have easy access for cleaning, for both the fixture and the area around the fixture.

Check for alignment and setting- The fixtures must be set level in proper alignment with
the adjacent walls.

As per the Indian Plumbing Association Code, a water closet, lavatory or bidet should not
be set closer than 15 inches (381 mm) from its centre to any sidewall, partition, vanity or
other obstruction, or closer than 30 inches (762 mm) centre-to-centre between toilets or

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adjacent fixtures. An 18-inch (457 mm) distance must be in front of the water closet or
bidet to any wall, fixture or door. Water closet compartments should not be less than 30
inches (762 mm) wide and 60 inches (1524 mm) deep. There must be at least 18 inches
(457 mm) clearance in front of a lavatory to any wall, fixture or door. A urinal shall not be
set closer than 15 inches (381 mm) from the centre of the urinal to any sidewall, partition,
vanity or other obstruction, or closer than 30 inches (762 mm) centre-to-centre between
urinals.

Make floor and wall drainage connections- Connections between the drain and floor
outlet plumbing fixtures must be made with a floor flange. The flange shall be attached to
the drain and anchored to the structure. Connections between the drain and wall-hung water
closets should be made with an approved extension nipple or horn adapter. The water closet
must be bolted to the hanger with corrosion-resistant bolts or screws. Joints should be
sealed with an approved elastomeric gasket or setting compound.

Check for floor flanges- Floor flanges for water closets or similar fixtures shall not be less
than 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) thick for brass, 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) thick for plastic, and not less than
a 2-inch (51 mm) caulking depth for cast-iron or galvanised malleable iron. Floor flanges
of hard lead shall weigh not less than 0.7 kg and shall be composed of lead alloy with not
less than 7.75 percent antimony (a chemical element which is a brittle, silvery-white
metalloid) by weight. Closet screws and bolts shall be of brass. Flanges shall be secured to
the building structure with corrosion-resistant screws or bolts.

Secure floor outlet fixtures- Floor outlet fixtures must be secured to the floor or floor
flanges by screws or bolts of corrosion-resistant material.

Secure wall-hung water closet bowls- Wall-hung water closet bowls should be supported
by a concealed metal carrier that is attached to building the structural members so that strain
is not transmitted to the closet connector or any other part of the plumbing system.

Make water-tight joints- All the joints of fixtures close to the wall or floor must be sealed
to prevent water from entering or passing through.

Plumbing in mental health centres- In mental health centres, pipes or traps should not be
exposed, and fixtures must be bolted through walls.

Design of overflows- Where any fixture is provided with an overflow, the waste should be
designed and installed in such a way that standing water in the fixture will not rise in the
overflow when the stopper is closed, and no water will remain in the overflow when the
fixture is empty.

Connection of overflows- The overflow from any fixture should be discharged into the
drainage system on the inlet or fixture side of the trap. The only exception exists in case of
the overflow from a flush tank serving a water closet or urinal, which should be discharged
into the fixture served.

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Access to concealed connections- Fixtures with concealed slip-joint connections should


be provided with an access panel or utility space at least 12 inches (305 mm) in its smallest
dimension or other approved arrangement so as to provide access to the slip connections
for inspection and repair. Where such access cannot be provided, access doors shall not be
required, provided that all joints are soldered, solvent cemented or screwed so as to form a
solid connection.

Result

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Construction Practices Laboratory Record

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Construction Practices Laboratory Record

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Construction Practices Laboratory Record

Department of Civil Engineering, MBCET 50

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