60+ Structural Design Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

IS 456 design clauses specify minimum and maximum bar requirements for structural design.

• IS 456 is the Indian Standard code for the design of reinforced concrete structures.

• The code specifies the minimum and maximum bar diameters, spacing, and cover requirements for different structural elements.

• For example, as per IS 456, the minimum diameter of longitudinal bars in beams should not be less than 10 mm.

• The maximum spacing between bars in a column should not exceed 3 times the...read more

Bending moment and shear force diagrams show internal forces in a structure.

• Bending moment diagram shows variation of bending moment along the length of the structure.

• Shear force diagram shows variation of shear force along the length of the structure.

• Indeterminate structures require solving equations of equilibrium to determine internal forces.

• Internal forces can be used to design structural members and ensure safety.

• Location of maximum bending moment and shear force can be ...read more

In shuttering work of a structure, we should check for proper alignment, adequate support, and quality of materials.

• Check if the shuttering is aligned properly to ensure accurate dimensions and shape of the structure.

• Ensure that the shuttering is adequately supported to prevent any collapse or deformation during concrete pouring.

• Inspect the quality of materials used for shuttering, such as plywood or steel, to ensure they meet the required standards.

• Verify that the joints bet...read more

Minimum reinforcement details and codes for structural design.

• Minimum reinforcement details vary depending on the type of structural element and its intended use.

• For example, the minimum reinforcement for a beam may be different from that of a column.

• Different codes such as ACI, Eurocode, and BS are used for designing and detailing structural elements.

• These codes provide guidelines on minimum reinforcement, material properties, and design loads.

• Structural engineers must be fa...read more

Limit state method and working stress method are two different approaches used in structural design.

• Limit state method focuses on the ultimate limit state, ensuring that the structure can withstand extreme loads without failure.

• Working stress method considers the working or service loads and aims to keep the stresses within the elastic range of the material.

• Limit state method uses partial safety factors to account for uncertainties in material properties, loads, and design as...read more

The Mass participation ratio for the first three modes is considered for structural analysis using ETABS to ensure accurate representation of the structure's dynamic behavior.

• The Mass participation ratio helps in understanding how much each mode contributes to the overall dynamic response of the structure.

• It is important to consider the first three modes as they typically represent the most significant modes of vibration for a structure.

• By analyzing the Mass participation rat...read more

Tension and compression are important considerations in frame structures and retaining walls for different loading scenarios.

• Tension occurs when a force pulls on a material, while compression occurs when a force pushes on a material.

• In frame structures, tension and compression forces are distributed throughout the structure to maintain stability.

• Retaining walls must be designed to withstand both tension and compression forces from soil pressure and external loads.

• Different lo...read more

The process to build an Etabs model involves defining the geometry, assigning properties and loads, and analyzing the structure.

• Define the geometry of the structure using nodes, lines, and areas

• Assign properties to the elements such as material type, section size, and boundary conditions

• Apply loads to the structure such as dead loads, live loads, and seismic loads

• Analyze the structure using the software's analysis tools

• Review the results and make necessary adjustments to the ...read more

Tension and compression members in truss vary based on support conditions.

• In a truss with pinned supports, tension members are at the top and compression members are at the bottom.

• In a truss with fixed supports, tension and compression members are reversed.

• In a cantilever truss, the tension and compression members are on opposite sides of the support.

• The type of support greatly affects the forces in the truss members.

Lateral forces in a building flow from the top to the bottom through the structural system.

• Lateral forces are caused by wind, earthquakes, and other external factors.

• The building's structural system, including walls, columns, and beams, must be designed to resist these forces.

• The lateral forces are transferred from the top of the building to the foundation through the structural system.

• The foundation must be designed to resist these forces and transfer them to the ground.

• Prop...read more

Designing an isolated foundation as per IS456 involves following specific guidelines and calculations.

• Calculate the total load acting on the foundation including dead load, live load, and other loads.

• Determine the safe bearing capacity of the soil at the site to ensure the foundation can support the load.

• Select an appropriate type of foundation based on the soil conditions and load requirements, such as a spread footing or a mat foundation.

• Design the foundation using the prin...read more

SP 34 and IS 13920 are codes that provide guidelines for reinforcement detailing in structural design.

• SP 34 is the Handbook on Concrete Reinforcement and Detailing, published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It provides detailed information on reinforcement detailing for various types of structures.

• IS 13920 is the Indian Standard Code of Practice for Ductile Detailing of Reinforced Concrete Structures. It focuses on the design and detailing requirements for ensuring d...read more

Hot rolled steel is heated and rolled while cold formed steel is formed at room temperature.

• Hot rolled steel has a rough surface and rounded edges while cold formed steel has a smooth surface and sharp edges.

• Hot rolled steel is more ductile and malleable while cold formed steel is stronger and harder.

• Hot rolled steel is used for structural components like I-beams and railroad tracks while cold formed steel is used for smaller, more intricate shapes like studs and joists.

Bending moment diagram (BMD) for a simply supported beam with a point load at the center is a triangular shape.

• BMD starts from zero at the supports and reaches maximum at the point load location.

• The BMD then decreases back to zero at the other support.

• The shape of the BMD is triangular in this case.

• The maximum BMD value occurs at the point load location.

Fixed beam end moment for point load at center is half of the point load times the span length.

• Fixed beam end moment for point load at center is calculated as half of the point load times the span length

• This is applicable for a simply supported beam with a point load applied at the center

• The formula for fixed beam end moment for point load at center is M = (wL^2)/8, where M is the moment, w is the point load, and L is the span length

SFD BMD diagrams show shear force and bending moment at different points of a beam under various loading and support conditions.

• For a simply supported beam with a point load at the center, the SFD will be a straight line with maximum value at the center and BMD will be a parabolic curve.

• For a cantilever beam with a uniformly distributed load, the SFD will be a parabolic curve and BMD will be a cubic curve.

• For a beam with a combination of point loads and distributed loads, the...read more

Calculate brickwork quantity by measuring the dimensions of the room/floor and accounting for wastage.

• Measure the length, width, and height of the room/floor in meters.

• Calculate the surface area to be covered by multiplying the length by the height for each wall and adding them together.

• Account for openings such as doors and windows by subtracting their surface area from the total.

• Determine the number of bricks needed by dividing the total surface area by the area of one bric...read more

Load combinations for earthquake analysis include different combinations of dead load, live load, and earthquake load as per building codes.

• Load combinations are determined based on building codes and standards such as ASCE 7.

• Common load combinations for earthquake analysis include 1.2D + 1.0E, 1.2D + 1.0E + 0.5L, and 0.9D + 1.0E.

• D represents dead load, E represents earthquake load, and L represents live load.

• Load combinations ensure that structures are designed to withstand ...read more

Designing a truss according to IS 800 2007 involves following specific guidelines and standards.

• Understand the requirements and constraints of the structure

• Select appropriate materials and sections based on loading conditions

• Analyze the truss using structural analysis software

• Check for deflection, stability, and strength as per IS 800 2007

• Ensure proper connections and detailing as per code requirements

Import CAD brings a copy of the CAD file into the current project, while Link CAD creates a reference to the original CAD file.

• Import CAD creates a duplicate of the CAD file within the project, increasing file size.

• Link CAD maintains a connection to the original CAD file, allowing for real-time updates.

• Changes made to the original CAD file will reflect in the linked CAD file, but not in the imported CAD file.

• Import CAD is useful when the original CAD file may be modified or d...read more

A culvert is a structure that allows water to flow under a road, railway, or other obstruction.

• Culverts are typically made of concrete, steel, or plastic.

• They are used to prevent flooding by directing water away from roads and structures.

• Culverts can be round, rectangular, or elliptical in shape.

• They are designed to handle specific flow rates and water volumes.

• Examples of culverts include box culverts, pipe culverts, and arch culverts.

Yes, I am comfortable with conducting a tool test on SOLIDWORKS.

• I have experience using SOLIDWORKS for structural design

• I am confident in my abilities to perform well in a tool test

• I am open to learning and adapting to any new features or challenges in the test

BBS is based on IS 2502:1963 code.

• BBS stands for Bar Bending Schedule.

• IS 2502:1963 is the Indian Standard Code of Practice for Bending and Fixing of Bars for Concrete Reinforcement.

• It provides guidelines for the preparation of bar bending schedules for RCC work.

• BBS is used to determine the quantity of steel required for a given RCC structure.

• It helps in reducing wastage of steel and ensures proper reinforcement in the structure.

Diesel engines are preferred in heavy vehicles due to their higher torque, better fuel efficiency, and longer lifespan.

• Diesel engines produce more torque at lower RPMs, making them ideal for heavy vehicles like trucks and buses.

• Diesel fuel has a higher energy density compared to gasoline, resulting in better fuel efficiency for heavy vehicles that require more power.

• Diesel engines are known for their durability and longevity, making them a cost-effective choice for heavy vehi...read more

Manual design calculations involve determining the dimensions and reinforcement required for various structural elements like columns, footings, slabs, beams, and walls.

• Manual design calculations require knowledge of structural engineering principles and codes.

• Calculations involve determining loads, stresses, and deflections to ensure structural stability.

• Design calculations for columns involve determining the size and reinforcement based on axial and bending loads.

• For footin...read more

Well steining in well foundation is designed by considering the soil conditions, water table level, and load requirements.

• Evaluate soil conditions to determine the type and depth of well steining needed

• Consider the water table level to prevent water seepage into the well

• Design the well steining to withstand the expected loads and forces

• Use materials such as concrete, steel, or timber for constructing the well steining

• Ensure proper drainage system is in place to prevent water ...read more

I am proficient in various software used for structural design, including AutoCAD, Revit, SAP2000, ETABS, and STAAD.Pro.

• AutoCAD

• Revit

• SAP2000

• ETABS

• STAAD.Pro

Copy monitor in Autodesk Revit is a tool used to monitor changes in linked models and synchronize them with the current model.

• Copy monitor allows users to track changes in linked models and update them in the current model.

• It helps maintain consistency between different models in a project.

• Users can easily identify and resolve conflicts or discrepancies between linked models.

• Copy monitor can be used for elements like grids, levels, columns, walls, etc.

Bracing in a truss is placed to provide stability and prevent buckling.

• Bracing should be placed diagonally between truss members to resist lateral forces.

• Bracing should form triangles within the truss structure for maximum stability.

• Bracing should be securely connected to truss members at both ends to effectively transfer loads.

• Consider the direction and magnitude of expected forces when placing bracing in a truss.

• Examples of bracing materials include steel rods, cables, or t...read more

The code for dead load is typically specified by the building code, while live load is determined based on the intended use of the structure.

• Dead load is the weight of the structure itself, including the weight of the walls, floors, roof, and any permanent fixtures.

• Live load is the weight of movable objects or people that will be present in the structure, such as furniture, equipment, or occupants.

• Examples of dead load include concrete slabs, steel beams, and masonry walls, w...read more

Types of foundations include shallow, deep, and pile foundations. Foundation stability can be checked through soil testing and analysis.

• Shallow foundations include spread footings and mat foundations

• Deep foundations include drilled shafts and driven piles

• Pile foundations include timber, concrete, and steel piles

• Soil testing can determine soil bearing capacity and settlement

• Analysis can be done using software such as STAAD.Pro or SAP2000

Base shear can be calculated using the seismic coefficient method or the equivalent lateral force method.

• Base shear can be calculated using the formula: V = Cs * W, where Cs is the seismic coefficient and W is the total weight of the structure.

• Seismic coefficient can be determined based on the seismic zone and the type of structure.

• Equivalent lateral force method involves calculating the total lateral force acting on the structure and distributing it along the height of the b...read more

ERP system is used for efficient transfer of documents in structural design engineering.

• ERP system helps in automating the document transfer process

• It ensures that the right documents are available to the right people at the right time

• It reduces the risk of errors and delays in document transfer

• Examples of ERP systems used in structural design engineering are SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics

One way slab is supported on two opposite sides only, while two way slab is supported on all four sides.

• One way slab bends in only one direction, while two way slab bends in both directions.

• One way slab is designed with main reinforcement in one direction only, while two way slab has main reinforcement in both directions.

• Examples: One way slab - balcony slab. Two way slab - flat slab in a building.

Roark's formula is used for plate stress analysis in structural design engineering.

• Roark's formula is a mathematical equation used to calculate the stress and deflection of plates under various loads.

• It takes into account the material properties, plate geometry, and boundary conditions.

• Roark's formula is commonly used in the design of pressure vessels, aircraft structures, and other engineering applications.

• Examples of plate stress analysis using Roark's formula include calcu...read more

ESP FGD Bag filters are used to remove particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from flue gas.

• ESP (Electrostatic Precipitator) removes particulate matter from flue gas using electrostatic forces.

• FGD (Flue Gas Desulfurization) removes sulfur dioxide from flue gas using chemical reactions.

• Bag filters are used to capture the particulate matter and sulfur dioxide that are not removed by ESP and FGD.

• The captured particulate matter and sulfur dioxide are then disposed of or reused.

• ESP...read more

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building.

• BIM is a collaborative process that allows multiple stakeholders to work together on a building project.

• It involves creating and managing digital representations of the physical and functional characteristics of a building.

• BIM helps in improving coordination, efficiency, and accuracy in the design and construction process.

• It can include 3D models, 4D s...read more

The CF value for a pipe rack is typically determined based on the specific design requirements and load conditions.

• CF value stands for Capacity Factor, which is used to determine the load capacity of a pipe rack structure.

• The CF value can vary depending on factors such as material type, design codes, and safety factors.

• Calculating the CF value involves considering the maximum load the pipe rack will need to support and ensuring it meets safety standards.

• For example, a pipe ra...read more

Wind and seismic loads are considered as per IS codes in structural design.

• IS 875 (Part 3): Wind Loads

• IS 1893 (Part 1): Seismic Loads

• Wind loads are calculated based on the location and height of the building

• Seismic loads are calculated based on the seismic zone and soil type of the location

• The design should ensure that the structure can withstand the maximum wind and seismic loads as per the codes

Ductile detailing refers to the design and construction techniques used to enhance the ductility and seismic performance of structures.

• Ductile detailing involves reinforcing structural elements to improve their ability to withstand seismic forces.

• It includes the use of ductile materials, such as steel, and specific detailing practices.

• Examples of ductile detailing techniques include providing adequate reinforcement, proper anchorage, and seismic joints.

• Ductile detailing is cr...read more

The position of beam and column is crucial for the stability and strength of a structure.

• The beam should be placed on top of the column to transfer the load effectively.

• The position of the beam and column should be aligned properly to avoid any bending or twisting.

• The spacing between the beams and columns should be determined based on the load-bearing capacity of the materials used.

• The position of the beam and column should be designed to resist any lateral forces that may ac...read more

Loads are applied to the structure in Staad model to simulate real-life conditions.

• Loads can be applied in different directions and magnitudes to different members and nodes.

• Types of loads include dead load, live load, wind load, seismic load, etc.

• Load combinations are used to consider multiple loads acting simultaneously.

• Load cases are used to analyze the structure under different loading scenarios.

• Examples of load application include applying a uniform load to a beam, point...read more

Perspective view is a method of representing three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface to give the illusion of depth and distance.

• Perspective view involves creating the illusion of depth by making objects appear smaller as they move further away.

• There are different types of perspective views, such as one-point perspective, two-point perspective, and three-point perspective.

• Perspective view is commonly used in architectural drawings, art, and video games to create...read more

Poisons ratio is the ratio of transverse strain to longitudinal strain when a material is stretched.

• Poisons ratio is a measure of the deformation that occurs when a material is subjected to a tensile load.

• It is denoted by the symbol 'ν' (nu) and is defined as the ratio of lateral strain to longitudinal strain.

• For most materials, Poisons ratio typically ranges between 0 and 0.5.

• Materials with a higher Poisons ratio are more ductile, while those with a lower ratio are more brit...read more

The question is asking about the load factor for pipe rack and pipes.

• cf is 2 for pipe rack and 0.7 for pipes

• cf stands for load factor

• The load factor for pipe rack is higher than for pipes

Design steps of RC framed structure involve planning, analysis, design, detailing, and construction.

• 1. Planning phase involves determining the purpose, load requirements, and constraints of the structure.

• 2. Analysis phase includes calculating loads, determining member sizes, and selecting materials.

• 3. Design phase involves creating structural drawings, detailing reinforcement, and ensuring stability.

• 4. Detailing phase includes specifying reinforcement details, connections, an...read more

Manual stiffeners are designed to provide additional support to plate work.

• Manual stiffeners are typically used in areas where the plate work is subjected to high stress or load.

• The design of manual stiffeners involves determining the required thickness, length, and spacing of the stiffeners.

• The spacing of the stiffeners is typically determined by the plate thickness and the applied load.

• The thickness of the stiffeners is typically determined by the required strength and stif...read more