900+ Civil Site Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Primary steel is used for structural purposes while secondary steel is used for non-structural purposes.

• Primary steel is used for load-bearing structures such as columns and beams.

• Secondary steel is used for non-load-bearing structures such as roofing and cladding.

• Primary steel is typically more expensive and of higher quality than secondary steel.

• Examples of primary steel include I-beams and H-columns, while examples of secondary steel include corrugated sheets and metal stu...read more

To rectify a broken concrete floor, materials like concrete mix, epoxy resin, or self-leveling compound can be used.

• Use concrete mix to fill in the broken areas and level the floor.

• Apply epoxy resin to seal cracks and strengthen the floor.

• Consider using self-leveling compound for a smooth and even surface.

• Ensure proper preparation and cleaning of the floor before applying any material.

• Consult with a structural engineer if the damage is extensive or structural.

Slab thickness can be checked during pouring by using various methods.

• Use a laser level to check the thickness of the slab at various points.

• Use a measuring tape to measure the thickness of the slab at various points.

• Use a dipstick to measure the thickness of the slab at various points.

• Ensure that the formwork is set up correctly to the required thickness.

• Check the mix design and slump of the concrete to ensure the correct thickness is achieved.

• Ensure that the concrete is pou...read more

Create a drawing and estimate material for shuttering a column.

• Create a detailed drawing of the column and calculate the required material.

• Estimate the size and thickness of the material needed for the shuttering.

• Make a Bill of Quantity (BOQ) for the column and other materials required.

• Conduct tests on the concrete and materials to ensure quality.

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards.

Bearing capacity of soil refers to its ability to support the load of a structure without excessive settlement or failure.

• Bearing capacity is a crucial factor in determining the type and size of foundations for structures.

• It depends on various factors such as soil type, moisture content, compaction, and depth.

• Different types of soil have different bearing capacities. For example, clay has a lower bearing capacity compared to sand.

• The bearing capacity is typically expressed in...read more

A WTP flow diagram shows the process of water treatment and purification.

• The flow diagram typically includes structures such as screens, sedimentation tanks, filters, and disinfection units.

• Screens remove large debris and particles from the water.

• Sedimentation tanks allow suspended particles to settle to the bottom.

• Filters remove smaller particles and impurities.

• Disinfection units use chemicals or UV light to kill bacteria and viruses.

• The treated water is then stored in a cle...read more

Observation of completed work is crucial to ensure quality and compliance with specifications.

• Check if the work meets the design specifications

• Inspect for any defects or deficiencies

• Ensure proper materials and construction techniques were used

• Verify that all safety standards were followed

• Document any deviations or changes made during construction

The soundness of cement refers to its ability to retain its volume after setting.

• Soundness is an important property of cement that ensures its durability and long-term stability.

• It is measured by conducting the Le Chatelier test or the autoclave test.

• A sound cement will not undergo significant expansion or contraction after setting.

• Unsound cement may lead to cracks, reduced strength, and structural instability.

• For example, if cement expands excessively during setting, it can ...read more

Bricks can be classified as clay bricks, concrete bricks, and fly ash bricks. Concrete can be classified as normal concrete, high-strength concrete, and lightweight concrete.

• Types of bricks: clay bricks, concrete bricks, fly ash bricks

• Types of concrete: normal concrete, high-strength concrete, lightweight concrete

Overlap welding is used as an alternative method to lapping of steel in reinforcement.

• Overlap welding involves welding two steel bars together to create a continuous reinforcement.

• This method eliminates the need for lapping, reducing the amount of steel required and saving time and labor.

• Overlap welding is commonly used in precast concrete construction, where pre-fabricated reinforcement cages are welded together.

• It provides a strong and reliable connection between the steel ...read more

The number of bricks used in 1 cubic meter of wall and 1 square meter varies depending on the size of the bricks and the thickness of the wall.

• The number of bricks used in 1 cubic meter of wall depends on the size of the bricks and the thickness of the wall.

• The number of bricks used in 1 square meter of wall also depends on the size of the bricks and the thickness of the wall.

• To calculate the number of bricks, you need to know the dimensions of the bricks and the thickness of...read more

Tests to identify soil compaction

• Proctor compaction test

• Sand cone test

• Core cutter test

• Nuclear density test

• Plate load test

I'm sorry, I don't understand the question. Could you please rephrase it?

• Please provide more context or clarify the question.

• Without additional information, I am unable to provide a relevant answer.

• Could you please provide more details about the area in question?

Piling works involve the construction of deep foundations to support structures on unstable soil or rock.

• Piling works are used to transfer the load of a structure to a deeper, more stable layer of soil or rock.

• Different types of piles are used, such as driven piles, bored piles, and auger cast piles.

• Piling works are commonly used in the construction of bridges, high-rise buildings, and waterfront structures.

• Piles can be made of various materials, including concrete, steel, an...read more

Sulphate attack and chloride attack are chemical reactions that can deteriorate concrete structures.

• Sulphate attack occurs when sulphates in soil or water react with concrete, causing expansion and cracking.

• Chloride attack happens when chlorides penetrate concrete and corrode the reinforcement bars, leading to structural damage.

• To prevent sulphate attack, use sulphate-resistant cement or additives, improve concrete quality, and provide proper drainage.

• Prevent chloride attack ...read more

To control work labour, effective planning, communication, supervision, and motivation are essential.

• Develop a detailed work schedule and allocate tasks to each worker

• Regularly communicate expectations, goals, and deadlines to the labour force

• Provide clear instructions and guidelines for each task

• Supervise the work progress and ensure adherence to quality standards

• Motivate workers through recognition, rewards, and positive feedback

• Address any issues or conflicts promptly to m...read more

Different types of foundations include shallow foundations, deep foundations, and special foundations. The choice depends on factors like soil conditions, load-bearing capacity, and budget.

• Shallow foundations: spread footings, mat foundations, strip footings

• Deep foundations: pile foundations, drilled shafts, caissons

• Special foundations: raft foundations, pile caps, underpinning

• Factors to consider: soil type, load-bearing capacity, building height, budget constraints

• Soil inves...read more

Different grades of concrete are used for different purposes, ranging from low strength to high strength.

• Grade M5 - used for non-structural works like pathways

• Grade M10 - used for plastering works

• Grade M15 - used for PCC (Plain Cement Concrete) works

• Grade M20 - used for RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) works in slabs, beams, columns

• Grade M25 - used for heavy-duty structures like bridges and high-rise buildings

• Grade M30, M35, M40, M45, M50, M55, M60 - used for special structur...read more

Civil engineers face challenges such as managing complex projects, ensuring safety and sustainability, and adapting to technological advancements.

• Managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines

• Ensuring safety of structures and infrastructure

• Designing sustainable solutions that minimize environmental impact

• Adapting to technological advancements and incorporating them into design and construction processes

• Dealing with budget constraints and optimizing c...read more

M20, M25, M30 are grades of concrete used in construction. Civil engineering work involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure.

• M20, M25, M30 are the compressive strength grades of concrete used in construction

• Civil engineering work involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems

• To calculate steel, concrete, and bricks, one needs to know the dimensions of the structure and the required st...read more

The process of tower foundation involves several steps that are carried out day by day.

• Day 1: Site preparation and layout survey

• Day 2: Excavation for foundation

• Day 3: Reinforcement placement

• Day 4: Formwork installation

• Day 5: Concrete pouring

• Day 6: Curing of concrete

• Day 7: Removal of formwork

• Day 8: Quality inspection and testing

• Day 9: Backfilling around the foundation

• Day 10: Final inspection and documentation

The crank length for slab bar is the distance between the center of the slab bar and the center of the crank.

• The crank length is determined based on the design requirements and specifications of the slab.

• It is usually measured in millimeters or inches.

• The crank length helps in providing the required reinforcement and structural stability to the slab.

• The length of the crank can vary depending on factors such as the span of the slab, load requirements, and design considerations...read more

Key considerations for foundation in transmission line construction

• Soil type and bearing capacity must be assessed

• Proper foundation design to support the weight and wind loads of the transmission line towers

• Consideration of environmental factors such as seismic activity and flooding

• Accessibility for construction equipment and maintenance

• Proper drainage to prevent erosion and foundation instability

The diagonal in the transmission sector plays a crucial role in providing structural stability and support to the transmission towers.

• The diagonal members in transmission towers help to distribute the load and provide stability against wind and seismic forces.

• They prevent the tower from buckling or collapsing under various loads.

• Diagonals also help in reducing the overall weight of the tower by transferring some of the load to the ground.

• Proper design and placement of diagona...read more

The standard size of brick in India is 190mm x 90mm x 90mm. Admixtures are chemicals added to concrete to enhance its properties.

• The nominal size of brick in India is 200mm x 100mm x 100mm, but the standard size is 190mm x 90mm x 90mm.

• Admixtures are added to concrete to improve its workability, strength, durability, and other properties.

• Examples of admixtures include water reducers, accelerators, retarders, air-entraining agents, and superplasticizers.

The minimum and maximum slope depend on the purpose of the site and the type of terrain.

• The minimum slope for a site is typically 0.5% to ensure proper drainage.

• The maximum slope depends on the type of terrain and the intended use of the site.

• For example, a road can have a maximum slope of 10% while a pedestrian walkway can have a maximum slope of 5%.

• In some cases, steep slopes may require retaining walls or other stabilization measures.

• The slope should be designed to ensure ...read more

There are different grades of concrete based on its strength and durability.

• The most commonly used grades of concrete are M10, M15, M20, M25, M30, M35, M40, M45, M50, M55, and M60.

• The number in the grade of concrete represents its compressive strength in megapascals (MPa) after 28 days of curing.

• For example, M20 grade of concrete means it has a compressive strength of 20 MPa after 28 days of curing.

• Higher grade of concrete is used for structures that require higher strength a...read more

Construction managers are responsible for overseeing construction projects from start to finish.

• Planning and organizing construction activities

• Managing project budgets and schedules

• Hiring and supervising construction workers

• Ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations

• Collaborating with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders

• Monitoring construction progress and resolving any issues

• Ensuring quality control and safety on the construction site

• Preparing progress r...read more

Quantity of a specific item or material is calculated by multiplying the dimensions and density of the material.

• Calculate volume by multiplying length, width, and height

• Determine density of the material

• Multiply volume by density to get quantity

• For example, to calculate quantity of concrete needed for a slab, multiply slab dimensions by density of concrete

To calculate the number of trollies/trucks of soil needed to level a land, you need to determine the volume of the land and the capacity of each trolley/truck.

• Calculate the volume of the land by multiplying the area of the land by the desired depth of soil to be added.

• Determine the capacity of each trolley/truck in cubic meters.

• Divide the total volume of soil needed by the capacity of each trolley/truck to get the number of trollies/trucks required.

• For example, if the land ar...read more

Total station is a surveying instrument used for measuring angles and distances, combining the functions of a theodolite and electronic distance meter.

• Total station is more accurate and efficient than a theodolite as it can measure both horizontal and vertical angles as well as distances simultaneously.

• It also has the ability to store data, calculate coordinates, and perform various surveying tasks digitally.

• Total stations are commonly used in construction, civil engineering,...read more

PU flooring is more preferable for food and beverages over epoxy due to its seamless and non-porous nature, resistance to chemicals and moisture, and ease of maintenance.

• PU flooring is seamless, preventing bacteria and dirt buildup, making it more hygienic for food and beverage environments.

• PU flooring is non-porous, reducing the risk of liquid penetration and bacterial growth compared to epoxy flooring.

• PU flooring is resistant to chemicals and moisture, ensuring durability i...read more

Concrete density refers to the mass per unit volume of concrete.

• Concrete density is typically measured in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³).

• It is an important property of concrete as it affects its strength, durability, and other mechanical properties.

• The density of concrete can vary depending on the mix design, aggregates used, and the amount of air entrainment.

• Normal weight concrete has a density ranging from 2200 to 2500 kg/m³.

• Lightweight concrete, which incorporates light...read more

The slab shuttering removal time depends on various factors such as concrete strength, weather conditions, and type of formwork used.

• The removal time can range from 3 days to 21 days depending on the above factors.

• For normal concrete with temperature above 20°C, the removal time is usually 7 days.

• For concrete with high early strength, the removal time can be reduced to 3 days.

• In cold weather conditions, the removal time can be extended up to 21 days.

• The type of formwork used ...read more

There are various sizes of tiles available in the market, along with different spacer sizes to choose from.

• Common tile sizes include 12x12 inches, 18x18 inches, and 24x24 inches

• Spacer sizes typically range from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch

• Some examples of spacer sizes are 1/16 inch, 1/8 inch, and 1/4 inch

The standard dimensions of a brick are 3 5/8 inches x 2 1/4 inches x 8 inches.

• Standard brick size is 3 5/8 inches x 2 1/4 inches x 8 inches

• Bricks can also come in different sizes based on region or purpose

• Common brick sizes include modular, jumbo, and queen

The minimum Dia. of binding wire as per IS specifications is 0.9 mm.

• Minimum Dia. of binding wire as per IS specifications is 0.9 mm

• Binding wire is used to hold the reinforcement bars in place during construction

• It helps in maintaining the proper spacing between the bars to ensure structural integrity

Precautions during shuttering and deshuttering in civil engineering.

• Ensure proper alignment and stability of the formwork.

• Check for any damages or defects in the formwork before use.

• Use appropriate release agents to prevent sticking of concrete to the formwork.

• Avoid sudden shocks or vibrations during deshuttering.

• Remove the formwork slowly and carefully to prevent any damage to the concrete surface.

• Ensure proper curing of the concrete after deshuttering.

The minimum thickness of slab depends on various factors such as load, span, and type of slab.

• The minimum thickness of slab is generally 4 inches for residential buildings.

• For commercial buildings, the minimum thickness of slab is 6 inches.

• The thickness of slab also depends on the type of slab such as one-way or two-way slab.

• The thickness of slab also depends on the span of the slab and the load it will bear.

• The minimum thickness of slab should be determined by a structural e...read more

The number of bags of cement required for M25 grade concrete depends on the mix ratio and the volume of concrete needed.

• The mix ratio for M25 grade concrete is 1:1:2, which means 1 part cement, 1 part fine aggregate (sand), and 2 parts coarse aggregate (stone chips).

• The volume of concrete needed can be calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the structure.

• The weight of one bag of cement is typically 50 kg.

• To calculate the number of bags of cement, divide th...read more

Setting time of cement refers to the time taken for the cement to harden and gain strength.

• Setting time is an important property of cement as it determines the workability and handling time of concrete.

• It is influenced by factors such as cement composition, fineness, water-cement ratio, temperature, and admixtures.

• The initial setting time is the time taken for the cement to stiffen and resist penetration by a standard needle, usually around 30 minutes.

• The final setting time i...read more

The question is related to building materials and concrete grades. It also asks about the difference between M20 and M25.

• Grade of concrete refers to the strength of the concrete mix. It is denoted by the ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate.

• Tests related to building materials include compressive strength test, water absorption test, and soundness test.

• M20 and M25 are both grades of concrete mix. M20 has a compressive strength of 20 MPa while M25 has a compressive strength of ...read more

Approximately 500 to 600 bricks are required for 1 cubic meter of brick masonry work.

• The number of bricks required can vary based on the size and type of bricks used.

• Standard size bricks (190mm x 90mm x 90mm) typically require around 500 bricks per cubic meter.

• Larger or smaller bricks will require more or fewer bricks respectively.

• It is important to account for wastage and cutting of bricks during construction.

Volunteers in poor countries serve various purposes such as providing essential services, building infrastructure, and promoting community development.

• Provide essential services such as healthcare, education, and clean water

• Build infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and roads

• Promote community development through skills training and empowerment programs

There are mainly three types of footings used in industrial building foundation.

• The three types of footings are isolated footing, combined footing, and raft footing.

• Isolated footing is used for individual columns, combined footing is used for two or more columns, and raft footing is used for the entire building.

• The choice of footing type depends on the soil condition, load-bearing capacity, and the size of the building.

• For example, if the soil is weak, raft footing is preferr...read more

Tiles work is the process of installing tiles on a surface, typically using adhesive or mortar.

• Prepare the surface by cleaning and leveling it

• Apply adhesive or mortar to the surface

• Place the tiles on the adhesive, ensuring proper alignment and spacing

• Use a tile cutter to cut tiles to fit around edges or obstacles

• Allow the adhesive to dry and cure

• Grout the gaps between tiles to provide a finished look and prevent water penetration

Water-cement ratio affects the strength of concrete.

• Higher water-cement ratio leads to lower strength of concrete.

• Lower water-cement ratio leads to higher strength of concrete.

• Ideal water-cement ratio is 0.45 for maximum strength.

• Excess water can cause shrinkage and cracking of concrete.

• Example: A concrete mix with water-cement ratio of 0.5 will have lower strength than a mix with ratio of 0.4.