Construction Technology
Section A: Objective Type & Short Questions (30 Marks)
Part One:
Multiple Choices:
1. Excavation carried out for construction of individual foundation and trenches is
- Sloped excavation
- Bulk excavation
- Confined excavation
- Excavation in rocks
2. Which of the following is not the temporary exclusion of controlling ground water?
- Sump pumping
- Cofferdams
- caissons
- Well point system
3. Strength, water-tightness, abrasion resistance are the properties of
- Plastic concrete
- Hardened concrete
- Both a & b
- None of these
4. The welding which is not suited for fabrication work known as
- Fusion welding
- Friction welding
- Flame welding
- Metal arc welding
5. The most common heat sources used in industrial welding works is
- Electric welding
- Resistance heating at an interface
- Flame welding
- All of the above
6. Silicone-based paint may be applied to porous surface to prevent water penetrating the wall known as
- Fungicides paint
- Water-repellent paint
- Waterproofing paint
- Heat-resisting paint
7. Which one of the following provides color to painting films?
- Binder
- Pigments
- solvent
- Additive
8. ----------------- masonry composed of rectangular unit , usually larger in size than bricks and properly bonded having sawed, dressed, or squared beds- laid in mortar :
- Rubble masonry
- Ashlars masonry
- Block-in-course masonry
- Grouted masonry
9. RCC stands for .....................................
10. WMM stands for ..................................
Part Two:
1. What are the causes of accident at construction sites?
2. List the document required for actual project implementation.
3. What are the activities involved in plastering?
4. List the guidelines for storage of civil engineering construction material.
Section B: Caselets (40 Marks)
Caselet 1
The president rise in commodity prices across the board, s posing major threat to those working on construction projects, in general and real estate projects, in particular. The prices of raw material are it cement, steel, aluminum, plastics, etc., are seeing an upward rally. This can hamper the growth of the sector adversely in case the demand for these projects, worth crores of rupees, falls. The impact of this fall would be severe on country‟s infrastructure development as well as the growth of the manufacturing sector. This lurking risk is not restricted only to domestic sector but is gaining global attention. Globally too project managers are concerned as commodity prices shoot through the roof. In addition to the problem of cost overrun, KPMG‟s Global Construction Survey conducted in the year 2007 unraveled three major aspects of the construction sector; Current business trends, management of building process and the future. The findings revealed that the shortage of qualified contractors to bid for and execute major projects, the rising cost of construction and the shortage of internal resources available to manage and deliver projects are the biggest challenges to new construction projects in the future. These need to be addressed as demand for construction services shall increase over the next five years.
Considering India‟s embarkment towards major construction projects related to highways, ports, airways, several lessons are required to be learned from international experiences and also from its own past experiences. According to Business Line, as of the end-March 2007, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had about 46 constructions works-amounting to a total length of 1,844 km- which were plagued by time and cost overruns. Of these, three projects, which were cancelled due to non-performance of contractors, were not rewarded while others faced significant time overruns. Some common problems identified were delay on account of land acquisition, utilities clearance, bad quality Detailed Project Report (DPR), leading to massive change in scope of work after the project was awarded and non-performing contractors. To overcome these problems attempts have been made by HHAI such as, the new model concession agreement includes clauses to ensure that 60% land acquisition and utilities clearance are done by NHAI and passed on to the rod developer before the financial closure of the project. Additionally, the clauses also have provision of blacklisting consulting firms as well as imposing penalty on DPR consultants to ensure better performance. The intervention by IT sector can also help the construction sector in reducing the performance. The intervention by IT sector can also help the construction sector in reducing the man-managed deficiencies that contribute to cost and time overruns, if not eliminating it in entirely.
Questions:
1. The cost-effective construction technologies would emerge as the most acceptable case of sustainable technologies in India. Comment
2. Explain what lessons are required to be learned from International experiences and its own past experiences in construction project.
Caselet 2
The Euro Tunnel formerly known as Channel Tunnel project was conceived for over two centuries. However, it was in April 2, 1985, a formal invitation to complete the fixed link of it was floated by the British and the French. Thereafter, in January, 1986, the train/shuttle tunnel developed by the consortium channel Tunnel Group Limited-France-Manche S.A. (CTGFM) was ultimately given the contract. In the development of it, design engineering was the prime challenge. The challenge was overcome through construction of three concrete lined parallel tunnels of approximately 50 kilometers long running mostly undersea (about 38 Km) from the English and French ends. Of these, the two outside tunnels which are used as rail tunnels had a diameter (internal) of 7.6 meters for train movement. These rail tunnels were dug at an average distance of 30 meters. The other one, the central tunnel has an internal diameter of 4.8 meters for catering to servicing activities. For effectuating it, the service tunnel is linked with the rail tunnels through cross-passages along the entire stretch, at equal intervals of 375 meters. Besides, the rail tunnels were also connected with ducts of piston relief at intervals of 250 meters for maintenance of air pressure, which got affected by movement of high-speed trains, in the two tunnels. Also, two huge undersea crossover caverns were constructed for the trains to crossover from one track to other. In order to keep the tunnels dry, five pumping stations and sumps were built. So as to reduce the heat caused by friction caused by the fast-moving trains, a cooling system was installed in which chilled water was pumped by cooling pipes. After determination of the optimum tunnel route, Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) that are able to operate in a sealed mode under water pressure were used. Lining of the tunnels were done with pre-cast concrete segmented rings and ductile iron as per soil conditions so as to ensure a 120 year life. The concrete used in the tunnel construction are of high strength and density so as to give optimum corrosion protection to the steel reinforcement. Besides, secondary protection against corrosion was ensured through surface coating.
Questions:
1. Explain the construction of the „Euro Tunnel‟.
2. State the benefits of the construction of the „Euro Tunnel‟.
Section C: Applied Theory (30 Marks)
1. Define “Glazing”, Explain different kind of glasses used for glazing purpose?
2. What is meant by mechanical handling? List the important safety guidelines for mechanical handling.
Answer:
Meaning of Mechanical Handling
Mechanical handling refers to the use of machinery and equipment to lift, move, transport, or store materials and goods within a workplace or industrial environment. It encompasses a wide range of devices such as conveyors, forklifts, cranes, hoists, and pallet jacks. The primary aim of mechanical handling is to reduce human effort, enhance efficiency, and minimize the risk of injuries associated with manual handling (Gupta & Sharma, 2020). Proper mechanical handling systems are essential in manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and construction operations, where the movement of heavy loads is frequent.
Importance of Mechanical Handling
Mechanical handling improves productivity, ensures the timely movement of materials, and reduces labor costs. It also plays a crucial role in improving safety by decreasing the physical strain on workers. However, improper use or poorly maintained equipment can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Hence, the safe use of mechanical handling equipment is vital for operational success and employee well-being.
Important Safety Guidelines for Mechanical Handling
-
Proper Training and Certification
All operators must be adequately trained and, where required, certified to operate mechanical handling equipment. Training should include equipment operation, load limits, emergency procedures, and safety protocols (OSHA, 2023). -
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Mechanical handling equipment should undergo routine maintenance and inspections to ensure it is in good working condition. Faulty machines must be repaired immediately and taken out of service to prevent accidents. -
Load Limits and Stability
It is essential to adhere to the load capacity specified by the manufacturer. Overloading equipment or unbalanced loading can lead to tipping, equipment failure, or dropped loads. -
Clear Pathways and Work Areas
Pathways and loading/unloading areas should be free from obstacles, debris, and spills. A clear and clean environment ensures better maneuverability and prevents collisions or slips. -
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Operators and workers in the vicinity should wear appropriate PPE such as safety shoes, helmets, gloves, and high-visibility clothing to reduce the risk of injury. -
Safe Operating Procedures
Equipment should be operated at safe speeds. Workers must never stand under suspended loads or ride on handling equipment unless it is specifically designed for that purpose. -
Communication and Signage
Clear signage must be placed in areas where mechanical handling is taking place. Communication devices like horns or alarms should be used to warn others when equipment is in use. -
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency stops, alarms, and first aid kits should be accessible in areas where mechanical handling equipment operates. Employees should be trained in emergency response protocols.
Conclusion
Mechanical handling is a crucial part of industrial operations, contributing significantly to efficiency and safety. However, without adherence to proper safety guidelines, it can become a major source of workplace accidents. Ensuring regular training, equipment maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols is essential for a safe working environment.
References
Gupta, R. B., & Sharma, A. K. (2020). Industrial safety and health management. Laxmi Publications.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2023). Materials handling and storage.