CE-402 Construction Technology - Jun 2024 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

1. 7 Marks
   aDiscuss the importance of proper site investigation and soil analysis in foundation design.
   How to answer

   • Define site investigation and soil analysis objectives
   • Bearing capacity, settlement and groundwater assessment
   • Selection of foundation type and depth
   • Risk, cost and safety benefits
2. 7 Marks
   bDescribe the design features and advantages of combined footings in building construction.
   How to answer

   • Define combined footings and when used
   • Design features: shape, reinforcement, load distribution
   • Advantages for closely spaced columns and property limits
   • Limitations and construction considerations
3. 7 Marks
   aIdentify the main causes of frost heave in soil and subgrade materials.
   How to answer

   • Define frost heave mechanism
   • Frost-susceptible soils, water supply and freezing temperature
   • Capillary action and ice lens formation
   • Effect on subgrade materials
4. 7 Marks
   bExplain the importance of temporary structures in construction projects and provide examples of their applications.
   How to answer

   • Define temporary structures in construction
   • Safety, access and schedule support roles
   • Examples: scaffolding, formwork, shoring, cofferdams
   • Cost and efficiency applications
5. 7 Marks
   aOutline the steps involved in the stripping and removal of formwork after concrete placement, emphasizing safety and efficiency considerations.
   How to answer

   • Check concrete strength and curing before stripping
   • Sequence of removal: sides, soffits, props
   • Safety precautions and tools
   • Cleaning, storage and efficiency measures
6. 7 Marks
   bCompare and contrast stationary and slip formwork techniques, highlighting their respective advantages and limitations.
   How to answer

   • Define stationary and slip formwork
   • Construction method and movement difference
   • Advantages of each system
   • Limitations and suitable applications
7. 7 Marks
   aDiscuss the principles and procedures involved in masonry construction, including layout, bonding, and levelling.
   How to answer

   • Principles of masonry bonding and strength
   • Layout, mortar and course procedures
   • Bonding patterns and levelling checks
   • Curing and quality control
8. 7 Marks
   bExplain the differences between white washing, colour washing, and distempering as surface finishes for masonry walls.
   How to answer

   • Composition of white washing, colour washing, distempering
   • Application method and coats
   • Appearance, durability and cost differences
   • Suitability for masonry walls
9. 7 Marks
   aExplain the factors to consider when determining the size, location, and orientation of doors, windows, and ventilators in a building.
   How to answer

   • Functional, ventilation and lighting requirements
   • Size, location and orientation factors
   • Privacy, safety and architectural aspects
   • Building bye-laws and climate influence
10. 7 Marks
    bExplain the principles of passive ventilation and natural daylighting in building design and their influence on door and window placement.
    How to answer

    • Principles of passive ventilation and stack effect
    • Principles of natural daylighting
    • Influence on opening size and placement
    • Energy and comfort benefits
11. 7 Marks
    aCompare and contrast the characteristics and applications of different types of ground floorings, highlighting their advantages and limitations.
    How to answer

    • Types of ground floorings and materials
    • Characteristics and performance comparison
    • Advantages and limitations of each
    • Selection for residential and industrial use
12. 7 Marks
    bProvide an introduction to roofs in building construction, highlighting their importance in providing shelter and protection for the structure.
    How to answer

    • Definition and functions of roofs
    • Shelter and protection role
    • Types overview and structural requirements
    • Waterproofing and durability importance
13. 7 Marks
    aDescribe the advantages and disadvantages of pitched roofs compared to other types.
    How to answer

    • Define pitched roofs and common forms
    • Advantages: drainage, ventilation, space
    • Disadvantages: cost, maintenance, wind load
    • Comparison with flat and other roofs
14. 7 Marks
    bDiscuss the importance of earthquake-resistant building design in regions prone to seismic activity. What are the key factors to consider during the planning phase?
    How to answer

    • Need for earthquake-resistant design
    • Seismic forces and failure prevention
    • Key planning factors: site, configuration, ductility
    • Codes and detailing considerations
15. 7 Marks
    aDescribe the process of installing corner reinforcement in masonry walls, including placement, anchoring, and integration with other structural elements.
    How to answer

    • Purpose of corner reinforcement in masonry
    • Placement and anchoring procedure
    • Integration with bands and vertical steel
    • Quality and bonding checks
16. 7 Marks
    bDescribe the components and materials used in base isolation systems, including isolators, bearings, and damping devices.
    How to answer

    • Concept of base isolation systems
    • Isolators, bearings and damping devices
    • Materials: rubber, lead, steel, friction
    • Working and seismic performance benefits