900+ Civil Site Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Geotextiles and geogrids are commonly used materials to stop the collapse of soil.

• Geotextiles are permeable fabrics made of synthetic fibers that are used to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.

• Geogrids are high-strength polymer grids that are used to reinforce soil and provide stability.

• Other materials such as gabions, retaining walls, and soil nails can also be used to prevent soil collapse.

• The choice of material depends on the type of soil, the slope angle, and the amount o...read more

The previous company used MS steel in the structure with different grades and sizes of beams and multiple concrete grades.

• The previous company used MS steel in the structure.

• Different grades of MS steel were used.

• Different sizes of beams were used.

• Multiple concrete grades were used.

• The specific grade of MS steel and size of beams used is not mentioned.

The water required for 1 cu.m in M20 proportion is approximately 186 liters.

• The water-cement ratio for M20 concrete is generally 0.55.

• The water content is calculated based on the weight of cement used.

• For 1 cu.m of M20 concrete, the water required is around 186 liters.

• The water content may vary slightly depending on factors like aggregate moisture content.

Minimum grade of concrete for construction purposes.

• Minimum grade of concrete used is M10.

• Higher grades of concrete are used for stronger structures.

• Grade of concrete depends on the type of construction and load-bearing capacity required.

Extra bars in beams are used to increase the strength and load-bearing capacity of the structure.

• Extra bars, also known as reinforcement bars or rebar, are added to beams to enhance their structural integrity.

• These bars are typically made of steel and are placed within the concrete to provide additional strength.

• The purpose of extra bars is to resist tensile forces and prevent cracking or failure of the beam under heavy loads.

• They help distribute the load evenly across the be...read more

The best type and grade of cement depend on the specific project requirements.

• Different types of cement include Ordinary Portland Cement, Portland Pozzolana Cement, and Rapid Hardening Cement.

• The grade of cement is determined by its compressive strength, with higher grades indicating stronger cement.

• The best type and grade of cement for a project depend on factors such as the type of construction, environmental conditions, and required strength.

• For example, Portland Pozzolana...read more

Grades of concrete, cement, and steel are important in civil engineering.

• Grades of concrete refer to the strength and durability of the concrete mix.

• Common grades of concrete include M10, M15, M20, M25, etc.

• Grades of cement indicate the compressive strength of the cement.

• Common grades of cement include 33, 43, and 53.

• Grades of steel refer to the strength and ductility of the steel used in construction.

• Common grades of steel include Fe250, Fe415, Fe500, etc.

IS code for concrete cube casting is IS 516:1959

• IS 516:1959 is the code for methods of tests for strength of concrete

• It specifies the procedure for making and curing concrete test specimens

• The standard size of the cube for casting is 150mm x 150mm x 150mm

• The cubes are casted in three layers and each layer is compacted 25 times using a standard tamping rod

My final year project was on the compressive strength of concrete with varying cement ratios and water proofing techniques.

• Investigated the effect of different cement ratios on the compressive strength of concrete

• Explored various water proofing techniques and their effectiveness

• Calculated mortar using the ratio of cement, sand, and water

• Conducted cube strength tests to determine the strength of the concrete

To convert from cubic feet to cubic meters, multiply the value in cubic feet by 0.0283168466.

• Multiply the value in cubic feet by 0.0283168466 to get the equivalent in cubic meters.

• For example, if you have 100 cubic feet, multiply 100 by 0.0283168466 to get 2.83168466 cubic meters.

• Remember to use the correct conversion factor when converting between different units of volume.

BBS & Abstract measurements sheet can be prepared by following a systematic approach.

• Understand the project requirements and specifications

• Identify the elements and quantities to be measured

• Prepare a detailed drawing or plan of the structure

• Calculate the total quantities of materials required

• Prepare a Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and Abstract measurements sheet

• Ensure accuracy and consistency in measurements

• Update the BBS and Abstract measurements sheet as required

Civil site engineers are responsible for overseeing construction projects and ensuring they meet safety and quality standards.

• Supervising construction projects

• Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards

• Collaborating with architects and contractors

• Managing budgets and timelines

• Performing site inspections and surveys

• Preparing reports and documentation

The standard size of ply board used for shuttering work varies depending on the project requirements.

• The most commonly used size for ply board in shuttering work is 4 feet by 8 feet.

• However, other sizes such as 3 feet by 6 feet or 2 feet by 4 feet may also be used depending on the project specifications.

• The thickness of the ply board can range from 12mm to 18mm, again depending on the requirements of the project.

• Ply boards are used in construction for creating temporary struc...read more

The required depth for laying a pipe for water supply from the top of the pipe depends on various factors.

• The depth of the pipe should be sufficient to prevent freezing in cold climates.

• The depth should also consider the terrain and any potential obstacles.

• Local regulations and codes may specify minimum depth requirements.

• The depth may vary based on the pipe material and diameter.

• Consideration should be given to future maintenance and accessibility.

• For example, in a residenti...read more

Cement is a binding material used in construction. It is made by heating limestone and clay in a kiln and then grinding it into a fine powder.

• Cement is made by combining limestone and clay in a kiln at high temperatures

• The resulting clinker is then ground into a fine powder

• Different types of cement include Portland cement, slag cement, and pozzolanic cement

• Portland cement is the most commonly used type of cement in construction

Mix design is the process of determining the proportions of cement, water, aggregates, and admixtures to produce concrete of desired strength and durability.

• Grade of concrete refers to the strength of the concrete mix, which is determined by its compressive strength after 28 days of curing.

• Lab testing for concrete includes tests for compressive strength, slump, air content, and density.

• Mix design involves selecting the appropriate materials and proportions to achieve the desi...read more

Joint measurement sheet is prepared to record the measurements of joints in civil construction projects.

• Start by identifying the type of joint and its purpose.

• Measure the dimensions of the joint, including length, width, and depth.

• Record any additional details such as the type of joint material used.

• Ensure accurate measurements by using appropriate tools like a tape measure or calipers.

• Include sketches or diagrams to illustrate the joint's configuration if necessary.

One bag of cement is approximately equal to 1.25 cubic feet or 0.035 cubic meters.

• One bag of cement typically contains 50 kilograms of cement.

• The volume of one bag of cement is influenced by the density of the cement.

• To convert cubic feet to cubic meters, divide the value by 35.3147.

• To convert cubic meters to cubic feet, multiply the value by 35.3147.

The size of trade and rise and angle of stairs vary depending on the specific design and regulations.

• The size of trade refers to the horizontal distance between two consecutive steps.

• The rise is the vertical distance between two consecutive steps.

• The angle of stairs is determined by the ratio of rise to trade.

• Building codes and regulations provide guidelines for the minimum and maximum values for trade, rise, and angle.

• For example, a common trade size is around 11 inches, whi...read more

The 100 mm offset is provided in footing PCC to ensure proper load distribution and prevent cracking.

• The offset helps in distributing the load from the superstructure to the foundation evenly.

• It prevents the formation of cracks by reducing the stress concentration at the junction of the footing and the column.

• The offset also allows for easy construction and reinforcement placement.

• It helps in accommodating any minor misalignment or errors during construction.

• The offset can al...read more

The standard size of a main door is 3 feet wide and 7 feet high, while a bedroom door is 2.6 feet wide and 6.6 feet high.

• Main doors are typically wider and taller than bedroom doors

• Standard size for main door is 3 feet wide and 7 feet high

• Standard size for bedroom door is 2.6 feet wide and 6.6 feet high

For 1 sqm plastering work 12 mm thickness, approximately 0.05 cubic meters of cement and 0.15 cubic meters of sand are required.

• The ratio of cement to sand is typically 1:3 for plastering work.

• The volume of 1 bag of cement is 0.0347 cubic meters.

• The bulk density of sand is approximately 1600 kg/m3.

• The dry volume of plastering work is calculated by multiplying the wet volume by 1.35.

The quantity of brick, cement, and sand required for 1 cum brick work depends on the ratio of the mix.

• The ratio of the mix determines the quantity of materials required.

• The standard ratio for brickwork is 1:6 (cement:sand).

• For 1 cum brickwork, approximately 450 bricks are required.

• Using the standard ratio, 1 cum brickwork requires 0.167 cum cement and 1 cum sand.

Uniformly distributed load refers to a load that is evenly distributed over a given area or length.

• It is a type of load that is applied uniformly across a surface or structure.

• The magnitude of the load remains constant throughout the area or length.

• Examples include the weight of evenly distributed vehicles on a bridge or the weight of soil on a retaining wall.

• Uniformly distributed load is often represented by a load per unit area or length.

One-way slabs are supported on two opposite sides and transfer the load in one direction, while two-way slabs are supported on all four sides and transfer the load in two directions.

• One-way slabs are designed to transfer the load primarily in one direction, either along the shorter span or the longer span.

• Two-way slabs are designed to transfer the load in both directions, along both the shorter and longer spans.

• One-way slabs are typically used for narrow spans or when the rat...read more

The strength developed after 7 days of concrete depends on various factors such as mix design, curing, and environmental conditions.

• The strength of concrete after 7 days is typically around 60-70% of its ultimate strength.

• Factors such as water-cement ratio, aggregate size and type, and curing methods can affect the strength development.

• The strength can be tested using compression tests on concrete cubes or cylinders.

• The strength development can also be influenced by the tempe...read more

Code of reinforcement refers to the standards and guidelines for the use of reinforcement in construction.

• Code of reinforcement provides specifications for the size, spacing, and placement of reinforcement in concrete structures.

• It also includes guidelines for the quality and testing of reinforcement materials.

• Examples of code of reinforcement include ACI 318, Eurocode 2, and BS 8110.

• Following the code of reinforcement ensures the safety and durability of the structure.

Answers to questions related to civil engineering calculations and terminology.

• To calculate the diagonal of a rectangle, use the Pythagorean theorem.

• Clear cover of foundation, column, beam, and slab refers to the distance between the outer surface of the reinforcement and the outer surface of the concrete.

• Compressive strength is calculated by dividing the maximum load the material can bear by its cross-sectional area.

• Clear cover is important to prevent corrosion of reinforcem...read more

Answering questions related to concrete grade, brickwork, mortar ratio, and cube size.

• Grade of concrete depends on the strength required for the structure.

• Number of bricks used in 1cum brickwork depends on the size of the bricks.

• Ratio of mortar for plaster and brickwork varies depending on the type of mortar used.

• Size of cube for testing compressive strength of concrete is usually 150mm x 150mm x 150mm.

Gravity main and rising main are components of water supply systems.

• Gravity main is a pipe that carries water under the influence of gravity, typically from a water source to a storage tank or distribution system.

• Rising main is a pipe that carries water under pressure, usually from a pump, to supply water to higher elevations or distant areas.

• Gravity mains rely on the natural slope of the terrain to move water, while rising mains require mechanical assistance.

• Gravity mains ar...read more

The unit weight of cement mortar varies depending on the mix ratio and the density of the materials used.

• The unit weight of cement mortar is typically between 2200 to 2500 kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³).

• The unit weight can be calculated by multiplying the density of cement mortar by the volume of the material.

• The density of cement mortar is influenced by the proportions of cement, sand, and water in the mix.

• Different mix ratios, such as 1:3, 1:4, or 1:6, will result in dif...read more

The lapping length for a 12 mm steel rod used in construction is typically 60 times the diameter of the rod.

• Lapping length is usually 60 times the diameter of the steel rod

• For a 12 mm steel rod, the lapping length would be 12 mm x 60 = 720 mm

• Lapping is done to ensure continuity and strength in the reinforcement

The density of steel is approximately 7.85 grams per cubic centimeter.

• The density of steel is commonly measured in grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³).

• The density of steel can vary depending on the specific type and composition of the steel.

• For example, the density of carbon steel is typically around 7.85 g/cm³.

• Stainless steel, on the other hand, has a slightly lower density of around 7.75 g/cm³.

• The density of steel is an important factor in various engineering calculations an...read more

Columns and beam bars can be lapped vertically by overlapping the bars and securing them with appropriate reinforcement ties or splices.

• Overlap the vertical bars by a certain length as per design requirements

• Secure the overlapped bars using reinforcement ties or splices

• Ensure proper alignment and spacing of the lapped bars to maintain structural integrity

• Follow the design specifications and guidelines for lapping columns and beam bars

The plaster thickness under a slab depends on various factors and there is no specific ratio for it.

• The thickness of plaster under a slab depends on the load-bearing capacity of the soil.

• It also depends on the type of slab construction, such as reinforced concrete or precast concrete.

• The thickness can vary from 10mm to 25mm or more.

• The plaster acts as a protective layer and helps in preventing moisture penetration and improving the overall durability of the slab.

• Consulting st...read more

Initial setting time of concrete refers to the time taken for the concrete to change from a liquid state to a solid state.

• Initial setting time is influenced by factors such as temperature, cement type, water-cement ratio, and admixtures.

• The initial setting time is typically measured using the Vicat apparatus, where a needle is used to penetrate the concrete.

• The initial setting time is important for construction activities as it determines when the concrete can be safely handl...read more

Lap length refers to the amount of overlap between two reinforcing bars in concrete construction.

• Lap length is important for ensuring the transfer of load between the bars.

• It is specified in construction codes and standards.

• The lap length depends on the diameter of the bars and the type of structure.

• For example, in a beam, the lap length may be 40 times the diameter of the bar.

• Proper lap length is crucial for maintaining the strength and integrity of the structure.

The basic requirement for execution of a site is proper planning and coordination.

• Proper planning and coordination are essential for the successful execution of a site.

• Clear understanding of project requirements and objectives.

• Availability of necessary resources such as materials, equipment, and manpower.

• Effective communication and collaboration among the project team.

• Adherence to safety regulations and standards.

• Regular monitoring and supervision of the construction activiti...read more

The most commonly used bond in residential building masonry brickwork is the stretcher bond.

• Stretcher bond is the most common bond used in residential building masonry brickwork.

• It consists of bricks laid in a pattern where each brick is offset by half a brick length from the course below.

• This bond is easy to lay and requires fewer bricks than other bonds.

• It is also aesthetically pleasing and provides good structural stability.

• Other bonds like Flemish bond, English bond, and ...read more

The approach to technical issues in civil engineering often involves analyzing the problem, considering various solutions, and selecting the most feasible option.

• Identify the technical issue and its impact on the project

• Analyze the possible solutions and their pros and cons

• Consider factors such as cost, time, and resources

• Consult with team members or experts for input

• Select the most feasible solution and implement it

• Monitor the outcome and make adjustments as needed

Yes, there are codes for batching plant, sieve analysis, compressive strength, and soil tests.

• The codes for batching plant include ACI 304R-00: Guide for Measuring, Mixing, Transporting, and Placing Concrete

• The codes for sieve analysis include ASTM C136-06: Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates

• The codes for compressive strength include ASTM C39/C39M-18: Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens

• The codes for...read more

The M20 grade concrete mix ratio is 1:1.5:3, which means 1 part cement, 1.5 parts sand, and 3 parts aggregate.

• M20 grade concrete is commonly used for general construction purposes.

• The mix ratio of M20 grade concrete is 1:1.5:3, which indicates the proportion of cement, sand, and aggregate respectively.

• For example, if we need to prepare 1 cubic meter of M20 grade concrete, we would need 1 part cement, 1.5 parts sand, and 3 parts aggregate.

Cranks are provided in slabs to resist the bending moments and shear forces.

• Cranks help in distributing the load uniformly across the slab.

• They increase the load-carrying capacity of the slab.

• Cranks prevent the formation of cracks and improve the overall structural integrity.

• They help in reducing the deflection of the slab.

• Cranks are especially useful in areas where heavy loads or concentrated loads are expected, such as near columns or walls.

• By providing cranks, the slab bec...read more

The number of bricks used in 1m3 varies depending on the size of the bricks.

• The size of the bricks affects the number of bricks used in 1m3.

• Different brick sizes have different volumes.

• To determine the number of bricks, divide the volume of 1m3 by the volume of a single brick.

Material quantity calculation for Plastering, Concrete and Mortar

• Plastering material quantity is calculated based on the area to be plastered and the thickness of the plaster.

• Concrete material quantity is calculated based on the volume required for the structure, considering the mix ratio and wastage.

• Mortar material quantity is calculated based on the volume required for the masonry work, considering the mix ratio and wastage.

• For example, to calculate the quantity of plasteri...read more

K7 and K9 are types of ductile iron pipes with different pressure ratings.

• K7 pipes have a pressure rating of 7 bar, while K9 pipes have a pressure rating of 9 bar.

• The pressure rating determines the maximum pressure the pipe can withstand without bursting.

• K9 pipes are thicker and stronger than K7 pipes, making them suitable for high-pressure applications.

• DI pipes are commonly used in water supply, sewage, and irrigation systems.

• The letters 'K' in K7 and K9 stand for 'class', w...read more

If casing gets trapped after concreting, I would follow these steps to resolve the issue.

• Assess the situation and determine the cause of the casing getting trapped

• If the casing is stuck due to concrete hardening, try to break the concrete around it using appropriate tools

• If breaking the concrete is not feasible, consider using a hydraulic jack to push the casing out

• Consult with experienced professionals or engineers for guidance and assistance

• Ensure safety measures are follow...read more