20+ Duff & Phelps Interview Questions and Answers

The properties of steel and concrete, PSC and RCC structures, execution strategy, and assisting the designer according to site conditions.

• Steel has high tensile strength and is commonly used in construction for beams, columns, and reinforcement.

• Concrete is a composite material made of cement, aggregates, and water, providing compressive strength and durability.

• PSC (Prestressed Concrete) structures use pre-tensioning or post-tensioning techniques to enhance the strength of con...read more

Project safety refers to the measures and protocols put in place to ensure the well-being and protection of individuals involved in a project.

• Ensures the physical and mental well-being of workers and stakeholders

• Reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities

• Compliance with safety regulations and standards

• Enhances productivity and efficiency by minimizing disruptions

• Builds trust and reputation with clients and stakeholders

• Examples: providing safety training, conductin...read more

Android architecture stack is a set of layers that make up the Android operating system.

• The stack includes four main layers: Linux kernel, native libraries, Android runtime, and application framework.

• The Linux kernel provides low-level system functionality.

• Native libraries are written in C or C++ and provide access to hardware-specific features.

• The Android runtime includes the Dalvik virtual machine and core libraries.

• The application framework provides a set of APIs for build...read more

Basic terms of construction refer to fundamental concepts and terminology used in the construction industry.

• Foundation: The base on which a building or structure is constructed.

• Structural elements: Beams, columns, and walls that support the building.

• Materials: The substances used in construction, such as concrete, steel, and wood.

• Blueprints: Detailed plans and drawings that guide the construction process.

• Permits: Legal documents required for construction projects to ensure co...read more

To estimate the raft foundation for 35m×75m within 14 days, consider factors like soil type, load bearing capacity, labor availability, equipment needed, and weather conditions.

• Assess soil type to determine necessary excavation and compaction methods

• Calculate load bearing capacity based on structure weight and soil properties

• Consider availability of skilled labor and equipment for construction

• Factor in weather conditions that may affect construction timeline

• Prepare a detailed...read more

Hash set and hash map are data structures used to store key-value pairs for efficient retrieval.

• Hash set stores unique values without any specific order.

• Hash map stores key-value pairs and allows fast retrieval of values based on keys.

• Both use hashing to map keys to their corresponding values.

• In Java, HashSet and HashMap are implementations of these data structures.

The amount of steel a fitter can bind in a day depends on various factors such as the complexity of the job, the skill level of the fitter, and the tools/equipment available.

• The amount of steel a fitter can bind in a day can vary based on the size and complexity of the project.

• A skilled fitter with access to efficient tools and equipment may be able to bind more steel in a day compared to a less experienced fitter.

• Factors such as the type of steel being used, the precision re...read more

I have experience using CAD tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and CATIA for designing and modeling.

• AutoCAD

• SolidWorks

• CATIA

AIDL stands for Android Interface Definition Language, used for inter-process communication in Android.

• AIDL is used to define the interface between client and service in Android.

• It allows communication between different processes in Android.

• AIDL is used to pass complex data types between processes.

• AIDL is similar to Remote Procedure Call (RPC) in other programming languages.

• Example: AIDL is used in Android to implement features like notifications, alarms, and telephony servic...read more

An antenna is a device that converts electrical signals into electromagnetic waves and vice versa. Satcom is short for satellite communication.

• Antennas are used for transmitting and receiving signals in various applications such as radio, television, and wireless communication.

• Satcom refers to the use of satellites for communication purposes, including television broadcasting, internet access, and military communication.

• Antennas are an essential component of satcom systems, a...read more

Project scheduling is the process of creating a timeline for completing tasks and milestones within a project.

• Identifying project tasks and their dependencies

• Estimating the time required for each task

• Sequencing tasks in the most efficient order

• Assigning resources to tasks

• Monitoring progress and adjusting the schedule as needed

The test of M20 refers to the compressive strength test of concrete with a mix ratio of 1:1.5:3.

• M20 is a mix ratio of 1:1.5:3 (1 part cement, 1.5 parts sand, 3 parts aggregate)

• The compressive strength test is conducted by crushing a cube of concrete at 28 days

• The minimum compressive strength of M20 concrete is 20 MPa

Slump is a term used in concrete engineering to describe the consistency of freshly mixed concrete.

• Slump refers to the measure of the consistency of concrete before it sets.

• It is determined by the amount of water in the concrete mix.

• Different types of slumps include true slump, shear slump, and collapse slump.

• Slump tests are conducted by filling a cone-shaped mold with concrete, then removing the mold to see how much the concrete slumps.

• The taste of slump is not applicable as...read more

Pitch distance refers to the distance between two adjacent threads on a screw or bolt.

• Pitch distance is measured from one point on a thread to the corresponding point on the next thread.

• It is an important factor in determining the thread size and compatibility with nuts or other threaded components.

• For example, a screw with a pitch distance of 1.5mm means that the distance between each thread is 1.5mm.

Edge distance is the distance from the center of a fastener to the edge of the material being fastened.

• Edge distance is important for ensuring the strength and stability of a connection.

• It is typically specified in engineering drawings and codes.

• Adequate edge distance helps prevent material failure or pullout of the fastener.

• For example, in structural steel connections, edge distance is critical for the overall integrity of the structure.

Concrete technology involves the study of materials used in construction, their properties, and how they interact to form a strong and durable material.

• Concrete is a composite material made up of cement, water, aggregates (such as sand or gravel), and sometimes additives.

• The properties of concrete can be influenced by the ratio of these components, the curing process, and the use of admixtures.

• Some important properties of concrete include compressive strength, durability, wor...read more

Selection of components is crucial for ensuring the performance and reliability of a system.

• Consider the specifications and requirements of the system

• Evaluate the quality, compatibility, and reliability of components

• Ensure components are cost-effective and readily available

• Test components for performance and durability

• Consider factors like power consumption, size, and weight

• Examples: selecting the right processor for a computer, choosing the appropriate sensors for a robotic ...read more

In a fire case situation at a project, it is crucial to follow safety protocols and evacuate all personnel immediately.

• Ensure all personnel are aware of the emergency procedures and evacuation routes.

• Contact emergency services and alert them of the situation.

• Use fire extinguishers if safe to do so, but prioritize safety of personnel.

• Account for all personnel after evacuation to ensure everyone is safe.

• Investigate the cause of the fire and implement measures to prevent future ...read more

I have used project management tools such as Jira, Trello, and Asana in previous projects.

• Jira

• Trello

• Asana