Civil Engineer Interview Questions & Answers

1) What are the responsibilities of a construction manager?

The responsibilities of a construction manager are
• Cost Estimates
• Pre-purchase of selected materials
• Selection of bidders for bidding phase
• Analysis of proposals
• Construction contract negotiations
• Construction Scheduling and Monitoring
• Cost control of construction
• Construction supervision
2) List out the potential risk factors for workers on the construction site?
Potential risk factors for worker on the construction site
• Falls from heights
• Scaffold and Trench collapse
• Electric shock and arc blast
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Not using personal protective equipment correctly
3) 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.
4) Mention what are the composition of a landfill?
For secure landfill, there are four critical elements
• The bottom liner
• A leachate collection system
• A cover
• Natural hydrogeologic settings
5) For the construction project what capital cost has to be taken in consideration?
• Land acquisition ( Assembly, holding and improvement)
• Planning and feasibility studies
• Construction ( Material, equipment, and labor)
• Construction financing ( Bank loan)
• Insurance and taxes during construction
• Owner’s general office overhead
• Inspection and testing
• Equipment and furnishing not included in the construction
• Field supervision, architectural and engineering design
6) 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.
7) What is reinforced concrete?
Reinforced concrete have steels bars or mesh in them, which gives extra strength to the
construction.
8) 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
• Crawl space: A crawl space is a raised foundation, it is built above the ground, just allowing
enough space to crawl underneath
• Slab: In this foundation, concrete is directly poured into the pit made in the ground.
9) Explain 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.
10) What are the common ways of demolition?
• Hydro-demolition
• Pressure Bursting
• Dismantling
11) Explain 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.
12) Explain 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.
13) Mention different types of roof systems?
• Slate or Stone roofs
• Wood shingle roofs
• Metal roofing systems
14) Explain 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)
15) List out some of the checking’s, done at the completion of construction?
Some of the checking done on the exterior of the construction is
• Utility connections
• Drainage
• Retaining walls
• Compaction of fill material
• Caulking at opening
• Storm sewer system
• Safety provision ( terraces, porches, areaways)
• Accessory buildings
• Pavement edging
• Protection against moisture penetration
• Design of dwelling structure
16) Explain what is alternate bid?
Alternate bid is the amount stated in the bid to be deducted or added from the base bid amount.
Alternate bid is proposed when there is a use of alternate materials or methods of construction.
17) Explain 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.
18) 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.
19) Explain 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.
20) What is demising walls?
Demising wall is used for the boundary that separates your land or house from neighbor’s house
21) 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.
22) Explain 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.
23) Explain 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.
24) Explain what is zoning permit?
Zoning permit is a document issued by governing urban authority permitting land to be used for a
particular purpose.
25) Explain 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.
26) What is Architect-Prepared Contract?
Architect- Prepared Contract is an agreement prepared in-house by the architect between owner
and architect, and often reviewed by an attorney, before its execution. It is a legal contract, and it
includes all terms and conditions including adequate legal protection for both the parties.
27) Explain 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.
28) List out some of the software program that can be useful for architect?
• AutoCAD
• Revit
• 3DS Max
• Sketchup
• Photoshop
• Adobe creative suites
• Microsoft office
• Digital Media
29) Explain what are the skills required to become an architect?
• Conceptual understanding of designing models
• Basic knowledge of computer and architect related software programs
• Engineering ability
• Business aptitude
• Legal knowledge
• Designing 3D models
30) What things architect have to take care of before starting any project?
• Whether the owner has proper planning permission
• Whether the building has a certain listed grade approved
• Knowledge of building appliances and materials that includes the cost as well
• Need to take environmental factors into consideration
31) Explain how you can use different dimension tools in CAD? What are the different
dimensions available?
If you are using CAD and want to use dimension tools, then go to CAD>Dimensions and you can
have access to a wide range of dimensions like
• Manual dimensions
• Interior dimensions
• Auto exterior dimensions
• Auto interior dimensions
• End to end dimensions
• Point to point dimensions
• Angular dimensions
• Display temporary dimensions
• Moving objects using dimensions
32) Explain 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
• 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
• When you click OK, the display of the dimensions in your plan will be turned off
33) Which are the top apps for you civil engineeer?
Some of the best apps
• Evernote
• STEEL
• Dropbox
• Instagram
• Sketchbook
• Photoshop Express
• Flipboard
• Magic Plan
• Houzz
• AutoCAD Ws
34) 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.
35) 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
36) 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.
37) 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.
38) List out the types of roofs?
• Half hipped roof
• Dutch gable roof
• Skillion roof
• Gambrel roof
• Gull wind roof
• Mansard roof
• Bell cast roof
• Sawtooth roof
• Monitor roof, etc.
38) Explain what are the problems one might face while having a Cantilever balcony?
Cantilever balcony are usually unsupported and extend outwards, so the problem with Cantilever
balconies are
• Excess deflection or bounce
• Weakness of the deck structure
• Rot and water damage to the interior of the house
• Unevenness inside the house
• Can’t use the balcony for gardening or other purposes as it is not designed to lift excess amount
of weight
39) For what building Built-on balconies are preferable? What are the advantages?
Built on balconies are mainly designed for retrofitting older buildings. This free standing balcony
is supported in front of the facade on four columns. They are backed to the wall with brackets.
The advantage of built-on balconies are
• Old balconies can be dismantled, and the new ones can be erected immediately in front of the
faced without disturbing the inner structure of the building
• The work takes place outside of the house, so there is no interference to the interior of the
building
40) What things you need to take care of before building a kitchen island?
Before you start building a kitchen island, you need to take care of
• Design the kitchen island according to the need- if it is only for cooking purpose then use less
space, but if it is also for eating then design it accordingly
• List out what appliances you need for your kitchen island
• How high the counter should be
• How much storage space should you required
• Working sides surrounding the kitchen island should have 42 inches of space as a minimum
around the kitchen island. Don’t plan Kitchen Island if it makes your kitchen more congested.
41) Explain 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
• 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.
Question 1. What Are The Steps Involved In The Concreting Process, Explain?
Batching: The process of measurement of the different materials for the making of concrete is
known as batching. batching is usually done in two ways: volume batching and weight batching.
In case of volume batching the measurement is done in the form of volume whereas in the case of
weight batching it is done by the weight.
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.
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.
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.
Question 2. 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:
Spraying of water: on walls, and columns can be cured by sprinkling water.
Wet covering of surface: can be cured by using the surface with wet gunny bags or straw
Ponding: the horizontal surfaces including the slab and floors can be cured by stagnating the
water.
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.
Application of curing compounds: compounds having calcium chloride can be applied on curing
surface. This keeps the surface wet for a very long time.
Question 3. 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.
Question 4. 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.
Question 5. What Reinforcements Are Used In The Process Of Prestressing?
The major types of reinforcements used in prestressing are:
Spalling Reinforcement: The spalling stresses leads to stress behind the loaded area of the anchor
blocks. This results in the breaking off of the surface concrete. The most likely causes of such
types of stresses are Poisson`s effects strain interoperability or by the stress trajectory shapes.
Equilibrium reinforcements: This type of reinforcements are required where several anchorages
exist where the prestressing loads are applied in a sequential manner.
Bursting Reinforcements: These kinds of stresses occur in cases where the stress trajectories are
concave towards the line of action of load. In order to reduce such stresses reinforcements in the
form of bursting is required.
Question 6. In The Design Of Bridge Arguments What Considerations Should Be Made To Select
The Orientation Of The Wing Walls?
Some of the most common arrangements of wing walls in cases of bridge arguments are as
follows:
Wing walls parallel to abutments: This method is considered to take least amount of time to build
and is simple as well. But on the downside this method is not the most economical. The advantage
of this type of design being that they cause the least amount of disturbance to the slope
embankment.
Wing walls at an angle to abutments: This design method is considered to be the most economical
in terms of material cost.
Wing walls perpendicular to abutments: The characteristic of this design is it provides an
alignment continuous with the bridge decks lending a support to the parapets.
Question 7. In Case If Concrete Box Girder Bridges How Is The Number Of Cells Determined?
When the depth of a box girder bridge exceed 1/6th or 1/5th of the bridge width then the design
recommended is that of a single cell box girder bridge. But in case the depth of the bridge is lower
than 1/6th of the bridge width then a twin-cell or in some cases multiple cell is the preferred
choice. One should also note that even in the cases of wider bridges where there depths are
comparatively low the number of cells should be minimized. This is so as there is noticeably not
much improvement in the transverse load distribution when the number of cells of the box girder
is higher than three or more.
Question 8. 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.
Question 9. Why Should Pumping Be Not Used In Case Of Concreting Works?
During the pumping operation the pump exerted pressure must overcome any friction between the
pumping pipes and the concrete, also the weight of the concrete and the pressure head when the
concrete is placed above the pumps. Since only water is pump able, all the pressure generated is
by the water that is present in the concrete. The major problem due to pumping are segregation
effects and bleeding. In order to rectify and reduce these effects, generally the proportion of the
cement is increased in order to increase the cohesion , which leads to the reduction of segregation
and bleeding. Also if a proper selection of the aggregate grading can vastly improve the concrete
pump ability.
Question 10. Why Should Curing Not Be Done By Ponding And Polythene Sheets?
The primary purpose of curing is to reduce the heat loss of concrete that is freshly placed to the
atmosphere and in order to reduce the temperature gradient across the cross-section of the
concrete. Ponding is not preferred for curing as this method of thermal curing is greatly affected
by cold winds.
In addition to that in ponding large amounts of water is used and has to be disposed off from the
construction sites. Polythene sheets are used on the basis that it creates an airtight environment
around the concrete surface henceforth reducing the chances of evaporation over fresh concrete
surfaces. But the usage of polythene can be a drawback as it can be easily blown away by winds
and also the water lost by self-desiccation cannot be replenished.
Question 11. What Are The Different Type Of Slump Test Indications?
Slump tests are performed to empirically measure the work ability 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: 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.
Question 12. Why Is Propping Required For Long Structures Once The Form Work 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.
Question 13. Explain The Mechanism Of Cavitations In Pipes And Drains?
The formation of air bubbles in a fluid due to low pressure conditions lower than the saturation
pressure is known as cavitations. This is considered to be a high potential damage condition where
the strength and durability of the pipes can be greatly reduced. Cavitation works on the principle
of Bernoulli's Equation.
When fluids are at high velocities the pressure head of fluids reduce accordingly. But since the
fluid pressure is lower than the saturation pressure the dissolved gases get released from the
flowing fluid. These air bubbles suddenly collapse on entering a region of high pressure. This
leads to the damage of the pipelines as a high level of dynamic pressure is created.
Question 14. 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.
Question 15. Why Are Pull-out Tests Performed For Soil Nails?
Pull out tests are performed for primarily the following reasons:
In order to detect and the verification of the bond strength among the soil and the grout adopted
during the design of soil nails. This is considered to be as the primary objective of performing pull
out tests for soil nails.
For the detection of any slippage or occurrence of creeps.
To detect the elastic and deformations (plastic) of any of the test nails employed. Observations are
made during the loading and unloading cycles of the soil nails repetitively.
To achieve the perfect balance the test nails should always be loaded so that the ultimate soil/grout
mixture with an upper limit of 80%.
Question 16. Describe 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.
Question 17. Explain 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 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.
Question 18. Why Is The Use Of Granular Sub-base In Concrete Carriageways Not Preferred,
Explain?
Some of the reasons why granular sub-base is not preferred in concrete carriageways:
Sub bases are permeable and hence water can seep through them easily. The soil particles get
pumped out through the joints on the application of traffic loads. This results in the creation of
voids underneath the pavement structure. This leads to the weakening of the concrete surface and
it can crack easily upon intense traffic loads.
Instead if lean concrete is used for carriageways it greatly increases the strength of the roads and
the load carrying capacity of the roads is increased.
Sub-bases implementation requires a lot of workmanship which can lead to an un-uniform
distribution of the sub-base. This can lead to the cracking of the carriageway when there is severe
traffic loading.
Question 19. Why Are Separation Membranes Used Between Concrete Pavement Slab And Sub-
base?
The purpose of separation membrane between the concrete pavement slab and the sub-base are as
follows:
The separation membrane reduces the frictional forces between the concrete slabs and the sub-
base. The membrane aids the movement of the concrete slab in reference to the sub-base when
changes in the level of the moisture and temperature occurs.
It aids in the segregation of sub-base materials from freshly placed concrete.
The separation membrane also helps in the reduction of cement and water loss in the form of
immature concrete. Immature concrete greatly affects the strength of the concrete. It also affects
the durability of it.
A good example of a separation membranes is polythene sheeting which is commonly used.
Question 20. 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.
Question 21. During Reclamation How Can The Occurrence Of Mud Waves Can Be Rectified?
There are several solution to the rectification of the problem of mud waves:
Complete removal of all the disturbed mud: This method can be considered to be one of the fastest
methods. As soon as the disturbed mud is removed some filling material is used to replace the
disturbed mud. But economically this method can be expensive as compared to others.
Accelerated consolidation of disturbed mud: In this method surcharging loads are placed on top of
the mud waves. Along with this band drains are installed to accelerate the consolidation process.
This method is quite slow compared to the other methods.
Partial removal of the disturbed mud: This method is the hybrid of the above two methods where
the top layer is removed whereas the lower level is treated with the surcharging process.
Question 22. 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.
Question 23. In Block Work Seawalls What Is The Purpose Of Slip Joints?
Joints which are formed from the cope level to the toe level of seawalls through a complete
vertical plane are known as slip joints. Such joints are designed so as to handle the differential
settlements between the seawalls adjacent panels. In the slip joints the aggregates inside the half-
rounds channels enables some vertical movements.
These vertical movements are induced by differential settlements. This enables in the interlocking
of the adjacent panels of the seawalls to link the panels in one unit against the earth pressure
( lateral ) which is exerted on the seawalls.
Question 24. For A Washout Valve Why Are Two Gate Valves Required In Normal Practice?
The washout valves are primarily used for normal maintenance works such as that of water main.
This can be like to allow water to flow out during the cleaning of the water main. The junctions at
which a pipe branches out to a washout point usually a gate valve is installed so that the two
pipelines are separated. The gate valve installed above usually remains open during normal
operation. Another gate valve is installed further downstream and this remains closed during
normal operation of the washout valve.
In case this valve is not installed then the pipe section of the branched out pipe would remain dry
during normal operation and high chances of damage and leakage can take place. When the
downstream valve is installed the branched out water main contains water under normal operation.
With two gate valves installed a leakage can be detected immediately.
Question 25. 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.
Question 26. How Can You Distinguish Between Sorption, Absorption And Adsorption?
Sorption is a concomitant phenomenon of adsorption and absorption.
Adsorption describes the phenomenon in which molecules that are present in a fluid (liquid or
gas), concentrated spontaneously on a solid surface by a finite time.
Question 27. What Is Modular Elasticity?
Young's modulus (E) describes tensile elasticity, or the tendency of an object to deform along an
axis when opposing forces are applied along that axis; it is defined as the ratio of tensile stress to
tensile strain. It is often referred to simply as the elastic modulus.
Question 28. Discuss Some Applications Of Modular 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.
Question 29. What Is Difference Between Engineering Stress And True Stress?
Think about pulling a bar in tension. Load divided by cross-sectional area is force, or stress. But
what cross section are you considering? Before starting pull, the bar had a known cross-section of
(lets say) 0.5" wide x metal thickness. It's easy to measure these, since it is your starting material.
At any load, the engineering stress is the load divided by this initial cross- area. While you are
pulling, the length increases, but the width and thickness shrink.
At any load, the true stress is the load divided by the cross-area at that instant. Unless thickness
and width are being monitored continuously during the test, you cannot calculate true stress. It is,
however, a much better representation of how the material behaves as it is being deformed, which
explains its use in forming simulations. In circle grid analysis, engineering strain is the %
expansion of the circle compared to the initial diameter of the circle. The relationships between
engineering values and true values are:
σ = s (1+e) ε = ln (1+e)
Where "s" and "e" are the engineering stress and strain, respectively, and " " and " " are the true
stress and strain, respectively.
Question 30. 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.
Question 31. 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.
Question 32. What Is Aggregate?
Aggregate is the component of a composite material used to resist compressive stress.
Question 33. What Is The Meaning Of Soil Reinforcement?
Soil reinforcement is the act of improving soil strength to enable it support or carry more load.
Two common examples are:
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)
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)
Question 34. What Is Braced Excavation All About?
Excavations are braced to prevent the cave-in of surrounding unstable soil.
Question 35. 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.
Question 36. 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).
Question 37. 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.
Question 38. 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.
Question 39. How Do You Measure Concrete?
Cubic feet, Cubic yards, Cubic Meter.
Question 40. What Is The Difference Between Absorption & Adsorption And Sorption?
Absorption generally refers to two phenomena, which are largely unrelated. In one case, it refers
to when atoms, molecules, or ions enter some bulk phase - gas, liquid or solid material. For
instance, a sponge absorbs water when it is dry.
Absorption also refers to the process by which the energy of a photon is taken up by another
entity, for example, by an atom whose valence electrons make transition between two electronic
energy levels. The photon is destroyed in the process. The absorbed energy may be re-emitted as
radiant energy or transformed into heat energy. The absorption of light during wave proPAgation
is often called attenuation. The tools of spectroscopy in chemistry are based on the absorption of
photons by atoms and molecules.
Adsorption is similar, but refers to a surface rather than a volume: adsorption is a process that
occurs when a gas or liquid solute accumulates on the surface of a solid or, more rarely, a liquid
(adsorbent), forming a molecular or atomic film (the adsorb-ate). It is different from absorption, in
which a substance diffuses into a liquid or solid to form a solution.

Study this last one

What made you decide to become a civil engineer? 
This question allows candidates to explain their reasons for becoming a civil engineer. The answer
will be unique to individuals and will give you insight into what inspired them to choose this
career path.
What to look for in an answer:
A genuine answer that reflects a true passion for this career path
An unhurried reply that shows that the answer was well thought out
Example: "I decided to become a civil engineer because of my father who is a Math teacher. As a
child he shared his great love for solving mathematical equations and other types of puzzles with
me. He was always asking me to look outside the box to solve each dilemma. He encouraged me
to have a quizzical mind and to always explore not only how something was built but also how it
worked. He inspired me to figure out if the design could be improved upon by utilizing a different
means." 
Why do you want to work for our company? 
This question lets you see if the applicants have done their homework on the particular company.
Before interviewing, it is critical that an applicant prepare to ask and answer questions relating to
the company's mission statement and priorities in accomplishing those goals.
What to look for in an answer:
An answer that shows that the applicant researched the company before applying
Details about the company that make it different from others
An answer that reflects the company's mission statement
Example: "I would like to work at HTWW Engineering because of the excellent reputation it has
for doing a job efficiently, but also in a way that enhances the structure so that it represents the
high standards of this company. Clients who employ this company should be confident that the
work will be accomplished in a fastidious manner with attention to important details that will
make the owner proud for many decades." 
What kind of personality traits do you believe a civil engineer needs to be successful? 
This question evaluates the ability of candidates to show that they understand the role and know
what is necessary to be successful. This allows applicants to voice the traits that they believe are
necessary for the job, as well as those required by senior management.
What to look for in an answer:
A thoughtful answer that encompasses what is necessary to do the job well
An answer that shows the individual is knowledgeable about the frustrations that can be present in
this particular job
A well-rounded viewpoint about the pros and cons of the job
Example: "I think that civil engineers need to have patience, flexibility and self-discipline to be
successful. A deadline can be frustrating, particularly when there are many unexpected delays. But
the occupation is extremely rewarding, and it takes a special type of person to excel in this field.
Civil engineers have to consider state and local requirements, as well as the needs of the client." 
How do you interact with clients? 
This question helps the interviewer determine how the candidate will interact with clients who
have many different temperaments and desires. If the civil engineer can't communicate effectively
with the client, an unhappy and dissatisfied relationship will result.
What to look for in an answer:
A truthful answer that lets you know the person's strengths
An answer that shows the applicant knows the importance of maintaining good relationships with
clients
An answer that doesn't shy away from the fact that there are often conflicts between the client and
engineer, but they must be handled professionally
Example: "Clients play a critical role in the process, whether it is in the planning, design,
construction, maintenance or operation of the infrastructure. Their input cannot be ignored or
disrespected. At the same time, the engineer's expertise must shine. I believe that my patience,
knowledge and sincerity will help me during these interactions with clients." 
What are the biggest challenges that you believe civil engineers face? 
This is a great way to gauge whether the applicant is aware of the latest trends in the industry.
What to look for in an answer:
A honest person will readily admit that there are challenges in all jobs
Look for work ethics that reflect the company's values
Listen for clues in how the applicant would resolve the conflict
Example: "In my opinion, the biggest challenge that civil engineers face is dealing with clients
who want to take shortcuts in order to get the job done on time. Persuading the client that taking
shortcuts is not only unethical but can also be dangerous is sometimes a difficult task. It is
imperative to gain their cooperation in order to protect the integrity of the company so that it
remains a viable leader in the industry." 
What do you believe should be the number-one priority for any civil engineer? 
This answer shows what would be the main priority to the applicant and displays how well he or
she is aware of the most important job qualifications.
What to look for in an answer:
Look for an answer that reflects the company's values and mission statement
Listen for sincerity as the applicant discusses the priority
Watch for hesitancy. An honest answer typically is easy for the applicant to formulate if he or she
has given the matter much thought.
Example: "I believe that protecting the health of the public and environment should be utmost in
the mind of civil engineers. In doing so, they also protect the reputation and respectability of their
employer." 
If a design flaw on a completed construction caused an accident, would you bring this to the
attention of upper management? 
This answer gives the interviewer insight into the character of the applicant and lets you know if
the applicant is right for the job.
What to look for in an answer:
Look for a straight forward answer that is given without hesitation
Listen for sincerity in the individual's answer
A person with a strong work ethic should know the right thing to do in this scenario
Example: "I would bring the situation to the attention of senior management as soon as possible.
This is because the liability is an ethical issue, and the company has the obligation to be held
accountable. Another factor is that it can be a learning experience for the company, so that similar
errors are not made in the future, thus protecting the longevity of the company in this industry."