Question 1

Elastic constants – volumetric response: Within the elastic range, the ratio of hydrostatic (all-round) stress to the corresponding volumetric strain of a material is called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Different elastic constants describe how materials respond to different types of loading. Under hydrostatic pressure (equal stress in all directions), a body changes volume without shear distortion. The constant linking pressure to volumetric strain is the bulk modulus, a fundamental property used in soil mechanics, fluid-structure interaction, and pressure vessel analysis. Given Data / Assumptions: Linear-elastic, isotropic material behavior assumed in the small-strain range. Hydrostatic stress means σx = σy = σz = p (compressive positive by convention). Volumetric strain εv is the sum of principal strains. Concept / Approach: Bulk modulus K quantifies resistance to volume change: K = hydrostatic stress / volumetric strain = p / εv. It is distinct from Young’s modulus E (uniaxial stress–strain) and shear modulus G (shear stress–shear strain). These constants are interrelated for isotropic materials by standard formulas involving Poisson’s ratio ν, such as K = E / (3 * (1 - 2ν)). Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize loading as hydrostatic (equal principal stresses).Define volumetric strain εv as the algebraic sum of principal strains.Recall definition: K = p / εv.Identify the corresponding term among the options: bulk modulus of elasticity. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check relationships: with E and ν known, compute K and confirm consistent volumetric response under hydrostatic loading in textbook examples. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Young’s modulus: relates axial stress to axial strain, not volumetric strain. Shear modulus: concerns shear deformation, not volume change. Tangent modulus: slope of the stress–strain curve at a point, not a fundamental isotropic constant for hydrostatic response. All of the above: incorrect since only bulk modulus fits the given definition. Common Pitfalls: Confusing bulk modulus with compressibility (its reciprocal). Using engineering sign conventions inconsistently for compressive pressure. Final Answer: bulk modulus of elasticity

Question 2

Built-up tension member with channels – flanges turned outward: Why are the flanges of two channels in a built-up tension member commonly turned outward?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Built-up tension members are frequently fabricated from a pair of channels connected back-to-back. The choice of turning flanges outward or inward affects fabrication convenience, lateral stiffness, inspection access, and the amount of lacing or tie plates required. Understanding these practical reasons helps in both design and detailing reviews. Given Data / Assumptions: Two channels form a built-up tension member. Member is connected to gusset plates and splices via bolts/rivets or welds. Serviceability and constructability are priorities in addition to strength. Concept / Approach: Turning flanges outward increases the overall lateral dimension, which improves lateral rigidity and radius of gyration about the weak axis. It provides easier access for placing transverse connections (lacing or batten plates) and for inspection/maintenance. The outward orientation can reduce the number or intensity of lacing elements because the wider stance provides better inherent stability. Step-by-Step Solution: Compare inward vs outward flange orientation in terms of geometry and access.Identify benefits: easier detailing, potentially reduced lacing, and enhanced lateral stiffness.Conclude that outward flanges offer multiple advantages and are widely adopted where feasible. Verification / Alternative check: Workshop practices and standard detailing manuals routinely depict channels placed with flanges outward for tension members, confirming this as a preferred arrangement unless architectural or connection constraints dictate otherwise. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each individual reason a–c is valid; therefore, the most complete choice is “all the above.” “None of the above” contradicts common detailing practice. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring eccentricity and shear-lag effects; adequate stitch spacing is still required. Assuming lacing can be omitted entirely; minimum tying provisions must be met. Final Answer: all the above

Question 3

Column effective length factor (buckling) A column that is effectively held in position (translation restrained) at both ends and restrained in direction (rotation fixed) at one end only has an effective length equal to:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Effective length is a key concept in column buckling. It converts an actual member with given end restraints into an equivalent pin-ended member of length Le producing the same buckling load. Choosing the right Le ensures safe compressive design. Given Data / Assumptions: The column is held in position (no translation) at both ends. One end is also restrained in direction (rotation fixed), the other end is not (rotation free → hinge-like). Euler-type buckling concept and standard effective length factors are applicable. Concept / Approach: Common end conditions and their factors K include: fixed–fixed (K ≈ 0.5), fixed–pinned (K ≈ 0.7), pinned–pinned (K = 1.0), and fixed–free (K = 2.0). The described condition corresponds to fixed–pinned behavior, for which K is commonly taken as about 0.67–0.70. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify boundary condition → fixed at one end, pinned at the other.Adopt K ≈ 0.67 for this condition.Effective length Le = K * L = 0.67 L. Verification / Alternative check: Many handbooks list K = 0.7 for fixed–pinned; several tables round to 2/3 (≈ 0.67). Either value leads to very similar design results; 0.67 L matches the option given. Why Other Options Are Wrong: L: corresponds to pinned–pinned, not this case. 0.85 L: too large for fixed–pinned restraint. 1.5 L and 2 L: represent very poor restraint (approaching cantilever), not applicable. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “held in position” (translation restraint) with “direction restraint” (rotation fixity). Only one end is fixed in rotation here. Final Answer: 0.67 L

Question 4

Cold-driven rivets – usual diameter range used in structural work Cold-driven (not heated) rivets are commonly limited to which nominal diameter range?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Riveting in steelwork historically used both hot-driven and cold-driven rivets. Cold driving (no heating) is practical only for small diameters; larger rivets are hot-driven to ensure proper upsetting and tightness. Given Data / Assumptions: Cold-driven rivets are installed without heating. Structural steel fabrication practices and typical diameter limits apply. Nominal diameters are in millimetres. Concept / Approach: Because plastic deformation and head formation are harder without heating, cold-driven rivets are generally restricted to small sizes. In many traditional specifications, cold-driven rivets are up to about 10–12 mm, with 6–10 mm being the typical working range. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize cold driving limits → keep diameters small.Among the options, the only unambiguously “small” range is 6–10 mm.Therefore select 6 to 10 mm. Verification / Alternative check: Hot-driven rivets usually cover 12–22 mm and beyond, confirming that 6–10 mm aligns with cold-driven practice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 10–16 mm or 12–22 mm: commonly hot-driven ranges. 22–32 mm: far too large for cold driving. Common Pitfalls: Assuming modern HSFG bolts and historic rivets share the same handling; cold driving is much more limited in diameter. Final Answer: 6 to 10 mm in diameter

Question 5

Maximum gauge (transverse spacing between rivet rows) for long riveted joints For long riveted joints, the greatest permissible gauge (distance between adjacent rows at right angles to the load) should not exceed (d = hole diameter):

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: “Gauge” in riveted joints is the transverse spacing between adjacent rows of rivets. Limiting the maximum gauge controls tearing and ensures an efficient transfer of force across rows without excessive eccentricity. Given Data / Assumptions: Long joint in tension or shear. d denotes the rivet hole diameter (governing dimension for detailing rules). Objective: choose the commonly adopted upper bound on gauge expressed as a multiple of d. Concept / Approach: Traditional riveted-joint proportioning imposes maxima on pitches and gauges. A typical rule-of-thumb places the greatest gauge for long joints near 8 d to prevent chain tearing and maintain good force flow between rows. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify that too-large gauge weakens plate between rows.Apply customary detailing limit → gauge ≤ about 8 d.Select 8 d from the options. Verification / Alternative check: Design handbooks list compatible limits on edge distance, pitch, and gauge; 8 d sits consistently with those proportions. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 6 d: conservative but not the common upper bound for long joints. 10 d: may be excessive, risking tearing between rows. 4 d and 2 d: unrealistically small for practical fabrication. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “gauge” (between rows) with “pitch” (along the row). The limits are different. Final Answer: 8 d

Question 6

Design assumptions for riveted joints in structural steel Which of the following is a standard assumption used when designing riveted joints?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Riveted (and similarly bolted) joint design uses simplifying assumptions to make group-capacity checks tractable. Understanding these assumptions helps interpret formulas for shear and bearing capacities and spacing rules. Given Data / Assumptions: Group of rivets transferring load between plates. Working-stress method context with classic detailing rules. Uniform load-sharing is a common simplifying hypothesis. Concept / Approach: For concentric loads on compact patterns, designers typically assume uniform shear among all rivets, and approximately uniform bearing stress at the interface. These assumptions are conservative for many practical joints and enable straightforward sizing. Step-by-Step Solution: State the core assumption → uniform load distribution among the rivets.Use this to compute number of rivets = demand / single-rivet strength.Verify bearing and edge-distance checks separately. Verification / Alternative check: For eccentric or prying-loaded joints, refined analyses distribute load non-uniformly (polar moment method), but the uniformity assumption remains the baseline for concentric loading. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Neglecting bearing in rivet (b) is unsafe; bearing is explicitly checked. (c) and (d) are not standard design assumptions for capacity or detailing. (e) Friction is not relied upon in ordinary riveted joints unless specifically designed as a friction/grip connection. Common Pitfalls: Applying uniform distribution to eccentric joints without additional checks leads to underestimation of peak rivet forces. Final Answer: Load is uniformly distributed among all the rivets in the group

Question 7

Definition of a deep plate girder (by flange-angle proportion) A plate girder is termed a “deep plate girder” when its overall depth is at least n times the depth of the vertical leg of the flange angles. The value of n is:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: “Deep” plate girders behave differently from shallow girders in terms of shear distribution and web slenderness. Traditional rules use proportions relative to flange-angle legs to categorize a girder as deep for detailing and stiffening guidance. Given Data / Assumptions: Depth measured overall between flanges. Vertical leg of flange angles is the reference dimension. Looking for a conventional threshold ratio n. Concept / Approach: Classic steelwork texts often use a multiple of the flange-angle leg to define “deep.” A commonly cited threshold is around eight times the vertical leg dimension, indicating heightened attention to web stiffening and bearing details. Step-by-Step Solution: Adopt standard proportion → deep if depth ≥ 8 × (vertical flange-leg).Select n = 8. Verification / Alternative check: This proportion aligns with traditional detailing recommendations for stiffener spacing and bearing checks on deep webs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 2, 4, 6: too small to reflect “deep” behavior. 10: more restrictive than typical guidance and not the common threshold. Common Pitfalls: Equating “deep” only with span-to-depth ratio; this definition specifically uses flange-angle leg depth as the reference. Final Answer: 8

Question 8

Tacking rivets – purpose and detailing rules in built-up members Which statements about tacking rivets are correct for compression members composed of components placed back-to-back?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Tacking rivets (or bolts) are secondary fasteners used in built-up members to prevent local buckling and maintain component alignment. They are not intended to carry primary design load. Given Data / Assumptions: Compression member composed of two elements placed back-to-back (e.g., double angles). Standard detailing limits expressed using t = thickness (mm). Working-stress method context. Concept / Approach: Tacking rivets are placed to stitch components so that they act as a unit. Codes set maximum spacing limits (e.g., not exceeding 12 t or 200 mm, whichever is less). Because they are for stitching, their contribution is ignored in capacity calculations. Step-by-Step Solution: Check spacing rule → use when separation exceeds 12 t or 200 mm.Function → prevent separation, ensure built-up action; not counted in strength.Applicability → provided along the full length of built-up compression members. Verification / Alternative check: These provisions appear consistently across classic handbooks and specifications for riveted/bolted built-up members. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “None of the above” is incorrect because all listed statements reflect standard practice. Common Pitfalls: Counting tacking rivets toward load capacity or exceeding maximum permitted spacing can compromise member stability. Final Answer: All the above

Question 9

Safe load of a discontinuous angle strut (tension/compression member) An angle discontinuous strut has cross-sectional area 30 cm² and allowable working stress 625 kg/cm² based on its slenderness ratio. What is its safe load carrying capacity?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Safe load for a member under working-stress design equals the allowable stress times the net cross-sectional area. For a strut (compression member), the allowable stress already accounts for slenderness effects. Given Data / Assumptions: Area A = 30 cm². Allowable stress σ_allow = 625 kg/cm². Safe load P_safe = A * σ_allow. Concept / Approach: Use direct stress formula to compute the safe axial load. Unit consistency is maintained in kg and cm²; convert to tonnes at the end (1 tonne = 1000 kg). Step-by-Step Solution: P_safe = A * σ_allowP_safe = 30 cm² * 625 kg/cm² = 18750 kgConvert to tonnes: 18750 kg / 1000 = 18.75 tonnesClosest standard rounded safe value in options → 18 tonnes (conservative rounding). Verification / Alternative check: Rounding to the next lower tabulated option is conservative; detailed design would retain 18.75 t if permitted. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 10, 12, 15 tonnes: underestimate capacity considerably. 20 tonnes: slightly higher than the computed 18.75 t (non-conservative rounding up). Common Pitfalls: Forgetting unit conversion or using gross instead of effective area if holes are present; here area is given as already effective. Final Answer: 18 tonnes

Question 10

Tacking rivets in tension members – maximum spacing (pitch in line) In a tension member, tacking rivets are provided at a pitch in line not exceeding:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Tacking rivets (or bolts) in tension members prevent local separation of built-up components and maintain alignment. Codes limit their spacing to ensure adequate stitching even when the primary connectors are widely spaced. Given Data / Assumptions: Tension member composed of multiple components (e.g., double angles or plates). Looking for maximum allowed pitch in line for tacking rivets. Concept / Approach: For tension members, the usual maximum spacing limit is about 1.0 m along the member line (i.e., 100 cm). This differs from compression members, for which limits are generally smaller to control buckling of components. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify member type → tension.Apply spacing rule → pitch ≤ 100 cm.Select 100 cm from the options. Verification / Alternative check: Handbook detailing tables consistently list a 1 m maximum pitch for tacking fasteners in tension members. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 25, 50, 75 cm: more conservative than required by common guidance. Common Pitfalls: Applying compression-member stitching limits to tension members; compression requires tighter stitching due to local buckling risk. Final Answer: 100 cm

Question 11

In strength of materials notation, the transverse shear stress at a point in a beam cross-section is given by which general formula (use standard symbols: V = shear force at the section, Q = first moment of area about the neutral axis for the portio…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Determining the distribution of shear stress across a beam's cross-section is essential for safe design. The standard formula uses the internal shear force and geometric properties of the section to evaluate transverse (vertical) shear at any fiber. Given Data / Assumptions: Prismatic beam subjected to transverse loading that creates shear force V. Linear elastic behavior; small deformations. Symbols: V, Q, I, and b have their usual strength of materials meanings. Concept / Approach: The transverse shear stress is derived from equilibrium of an infinitesimal slice of the beam considering variation of bending stress along the depth. This leads to a relationship that links shear flow to the gradient of bending stress, which in turn depends on section geometry. Step-by-Step Solution: Start from bending stress: sigma_x = M * y / I.Relate shear flow q to the change of bending stress over a small height: q = V * Q / I.Convert shear flow to shear stress by dividing by local width: f_s = q / b.Therefore, f_s = (V * Q) / (I * b). Verification / Alternative check: For a rectangular section, insert Q and b to obtain the classic parabolic distribution with maximum f_s = 1.5 * V / A at the neutral axis, confirming the formula's correctness. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options using M * y / I describe bending stress, not shear. Forms like V / (A * b) or (E * I) / (V * Q) do not follow from equilibrium or material laws and are dimensionally inconsistent for shear stress. Common Pitfalls: Using gross width instead of local width b at the level of interest; computing Q about the wrong axis; forgetting that Q is for the area above or below the point where stress is evaluated. Final Answer: f_s = (V * Q) / (I * b)

Question 12

In building construction, what rise is commonly adopted for a Jack arch (flat brick arch) expressed as a fraction of its clear span?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: A Jack arch is a nearly flat masonry arch used between joists or steel beams. Selecting an appropriate rise (camber) ensures adequate arch action, economy of materials, and acceptable headroom. Given Data / Assumptions: Jack arch spanning between supports (e.g., steel joists). Conventional masonry and service load levels. Rise expressed as a fraction of span. Concept / Approach: Jack arches are designed with a relatively small rise to remain functionally flat yet develop thrust lines within the masonry. Traditional practice adopts a rise in the range 1/8 to 1/12 of span to balance structural performance and architectural constraints. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the structural form: shallow brick arch needing modest camber for compressive thrust.Choose a standard range that maintains compressive line within the depth of the arch.Adopt rise ≈ 1/8 to 1/12 of the span as a widely accepted guideline. Verification / Alternative check: Trial thrust-line checks with the selected rise typically keep compression within the masonry section without requiring excessive thickness, corroborating the guideline. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Higher rises like 1/2–1/3 or 1/3–1/4 are inappropriate and uneconomical for a Jack arch; 1/4–1/8 is still large for a nearly flat arch; extremely small rises (e.g., 1/16–1/20) may be insufficient to keep a safe thrust line. Common Pitfalls: Confusing Jack arches with semicircular or segmental arches; ignoring lateral thrusts and tie requirements; neglecting the effect of live loads on the line of thrust. Final Answer: 1/8 to 1/12 of the span

Question 13

For a single rolled section used as a tension member (with holes), by how much should the gross area typically exceed the required net area to account for reductions at holes and stress concentrations?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When designing a tension member, the presence of holes reduces the effective section and introduces stress concentration. Practical guidelines recommend a margin of gross area over the required net area to maintain adequate capacity and ductility. Given Data / Assumptions: Single rolled section (e.g., single angle or plate) in tension. Presence of standard bolt/rivet holes. Allowable stresses as per conventional design practice. Concept / Approach: Net area A_net equals gross area minus deductions for holes (and plus stagger correction where applicable). To avoid overly thin members and to limit localized stresses around holes, a practical rule is to keep the gross area about 20% to 30% larger than the minimum required net area. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute required net area from factored/allowable tension: A_req,net = T / f_t.Select a rolled section whose gross area A_g satisfies A_g ≈ 1.2 to 1.3 * A_req,net.Verify actual A_net considering hole deductions and any stagger restoration; ensure A_net ≥ A_req,net. Verification / Alternative check: Check block shear and connection efficiency; confirm that the fracture path governs and that yielding precedes fracture in a ductile design. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Margins of 30%–70% are overly conservative for typical practice and lead to uneconomical members without commensurate benefit. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to add stagger restoration; using nominal hole size instead of standard (larger) hole diameter; ignoring reduced net section near the connection. Final Answer: 20% to 30% in excess of the net area

Question 14

In a grillage footing supporting a steel column, where does the maximum shear force occur in the grillage system under axial load transfer?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Grillage footings distribute heavy column loads to soil over a large plan area using tiers of steel beams. Understanding where maximum shear occurs in the grillage beams ensures proper web sizing and stiffener detailing. Given Data / Assumptions: Axially loaded column with a base plate supported by orthogonal grillage beams. Load spreads from the base plate into the upper-tier beams as a concentrated line load near the plate edge. Symmetric arrangement and uniform soil reaction. Concept / Approach: The base plate acts like a load distributor. For each grillage beam, the critical section for shear is typically at the face of the concentrated load application, i.e., at or just outside the edge of the base plate (the face of the column projection onto the beam). Shear then reduces toward the beam ends as reactions distribute to the concrete. Step-by-Step Solution: Model load transfer from the base plate to the grillage beams as concentrated or distributed within the plate projection.Draw the shear force diagram for a beam under this loading and soil reactions.Identify the peak shear at the face of the load—i.e., at the edge of the base plate. Verification / Alternative check: Run a simple beam idealization: a concentrated load near the beam centre has peak shear at the adjacent section; this aligns with standard detailing practices where stiffeners are placed near the base-plate edges. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Midspan shear is smaller; at the beam outer edge the shear has already diminished; uniform shear does not match statics of beam-and-soil reaction. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring the two-way action between orthogonal beams; omitting bearing stiffeners near the plate edge; assuming uniform soil reaction without checking differential settlement. Final Answer: At the edge of the base plate (face of the column projection)

Question 15

Base plate design for a circular column on a square base: If d is the column diameter, D is the side of the square base plate, p is the allowable bearing pressure on concrete, and a = (D − d) / 2 is the cantilever projection on each side, what plate…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Steel column bases are often idealized as plates cantilevering beyond the column footprint under uniform concrete bearing. Plate thickness is sized so bending stress does not exceed the permissible value. Given Data / Assumptions: Circular column diameter d on a square plate side D. Cantilever projection on each side: a = (D − d) / 2. Allowable concrete bearing pressure p and allowable plate bending stress f_b. Uniform bearing under the plate for sizing. Concept / Approach: For a unit-width cantilever of length a under uniform pressure p, the maximum moment at the fixed edge is M = p * a^2 / 2 per unit width. The extreme fiber bending stress for a rectangular plate strip of thickness t is sigma = 6 * M / t^2 (for unit width), leading to a closed-form sizing. Step-by-Step Solution: Take M = p * a^2 / 2 (per unit width).Set sigma = 6 * M / t^2 = f_b.So, 6 * (p * a^2 / 2) / t^2 = f_b ⇒ 3 * p * a^2 / t^2 = f_b.Solve for thickness: t = a * sqrt(3 * p / f_b). Verification / Alternative check: Compare with tabulated values in design handbooks for typical p and f_b; results align within standard tolerances for plate design. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Different constants (2, 6, 1/3) do not follow from the cantilever derivation; option (e) uses a nonphysical D/d factor not implied by bending theory. Common Pitfalls: Using gross projection D/2 instead of a; neglecting local bearing beneath the column stub; ignoring biaxial effects when loads are eccentric. Final Answer: t = a * sqrt(3 * p / f_b)

Question 16

Built-up struts (compression members): which connection detailing statements are correct for ensuring composite action of the components?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Built-up compression members (e.g., pairs of angles, channels, or tees) require adequate lacing or battening so that the components act together, sharing load and preventing local buckling. Given Data / Assumptions: Member in compression composed of multiple elements. Connections by rivets/bolts/welds. Service loads within elastic range. Concept / Approach: Minimum connection requirements at the ends and at intervals ensure load transfer, torsional restraint, and control of relative slip. Where components are spaced apart, packing or solid washers maintain the required spacing and provide proper bearing for the fasteners. Step-by-Step Solution: Provide at least two fasteners at each end to prevent rotation and slip.Ensure intermediate connections at suitable spacing to maintain composite action and limit slenderness of individual components.For back-to-back but separated components, use solid washers/packings so fasteners are effective in clamping and shear transfer. Verification / Alternative check: Check effective slenderness per relevant code considering lacing/battening; confirm stability against local and global buckling. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each individual statement (a), (b), and (c) reflects accepted practice; selecting anything other than “All the above” would omit necessary detailing requirements. Common Pitfalls: Using thin packings that deform; too-wide connection spacing leading to independent buckling; inadequate end connection stiffness. Final Answer: All the above

Question 17

In steel structures, which items are included in the dead load when assessing permanent actions on the frame?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Dead load (permanent action) is fundamental for sizing members and foundations. It encompasses all permanently attached and supported materials that will remain in place throughout the structure’s life. Given Data / Assumptions: Building frame with steel members. Permanent finishes, cladding, and plant considered part of dead load if fixed. Concept / Approach: Dead load includes the self-weight of structure plus any permanently attached components whose weight does not vary significantly with usage. This ensures that members are designed for the sustained gravity effects that drive deflection and long-term stress. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute steel self-weight from member sizes and density.Add weights of permanently fastened materials (e.g., decks, slabs, façade panels).Include other permanent items (e.g., non-movable partitions, ceilings, services if fixed). Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check with architectural and MEP schedules; ensure consistency with load combinations and serviceability criteria. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Limiting dead load to only steelwork underestimates design actions; excluding permanent supported materials is incorrect. Common Pitfalls: Misclassifying removable items as dead load; overlooking future fit-outs that add permanent weight; not updating self-weight after member size changes. Final Answer: All the above

Question 18

According to IS:800 (1962 era) guidance, what value is commonly adopted for the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of steel per degree Celsius (per unit length)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Thermal expansion influences stresses in restrained members, joint detailing, and expansion joint spacing. A standard coefficient allows consistent temperature-effect calculations in steel structures. Given Data / Assumptions: Structural steel within normal service temperatures. Linear coefficient assumed constant over the range for design purposes. Concept / Approach: The coefficient of linear thermal expansion, often denoted alpha, gives the change in length per unit length per degree Celsius. For structural steels, a typical value used in legacy Indian standards and many textbooks is about 12 × 10^-6 per °C, written as 0.000012 per °C per unit length. Step-by-Step Solution: Thermal elongation: ΔL = α * L * ΔT.Adopt α ≈ 0.000012 per °C for design checks.Use in restraint stress or movement joint calculations as required. Verification / Alternative check: Compare with common international references (≈ 11–13 × 10^-6 per °C); 12 × 10^-6 per °C sits within the typical range. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Values like 0.000008 or 0.000016 are outside typical structural steel design assumptions in many codes and would misestimate movements. Common Pitfalls: Mixing per °C with per °F; ignoring temperature gradients via composite action; neglecting restraint leading to unintended thermal stresses. Final Answer: 0.000012

Question 19

Steel design – cased beams: For a steel beam encased (cased) in solid concrete, the minimum overall width B of the concrete casing, in terms of the steel beam's flange width b, should be what value to ensure durable side cover and fire protection?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Encased (cased) steel beams are widely used in building construction to improve fire resistance, corrosion protection, and composite action with surrounding concrete or masonry. Choosing the minimum overall casing width B relative to the steel flange width b is critical to guarantee adequate side cover, durability, and space for proper compaction of concrete around the steel. Given Data / Assumptions: Steel I- or H-beam encased fully in concrete (solid casing). b denotes the steel beam flange width; B denotes the concrete encasement overall width. Normal indoor exposure with a preference for robust fire cover and construction tolerance. Concept / Approach: Concrete encasement requires adequate side cover on both faces of the steel flange. Practical detailing rules of thumb provide a minimum of about 50 mm concrete cover on each side to ensure fire resistance, protection against corrosion, and room for vibration/compaction. Therefore, the encasement width B is taken as approximately b + 50 mm + 50 mm = b + 100 mm. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify objective: ensure sufficient side cover for protection and constructability.Adopt customary minimum side cover ≈ 50 mm each face.Compute overall: B = b + 50 mm + 50 mm = b + 100 mm. Verification / Alternative check: Fire design tables and common practice for encased members align with side covers of the order of 40–60 mm per face for standard ratings, making b + 100 mm a serviceable minimum that also accommodates tolerances. Why Other Options Are Wrong: b + 25, b + 50, b + 75 mm: Side cover is insufficient for robust fire and durability performance. b + 125 mm: More conservative than typically necessary; adds weight and width without proportional benefit. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring tolerance: too small a margin hampers placement and compaction. Not coordinating with stirrup/mesh placement around the encased steel. Final Answer: B = b + 100 mm.

Question 20

Continuous steel beams with cover plates – “modified” moment of inertia: For sections with a single web, the modified moment of inertia at a support (maximum bending moment region) is taken as the section's I about the Y–Y axis at that location mult…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In continuous steel beams where flange areas vary (e.g., due to cover plates curtailed between spans), an adjusted or “modified” moment of inertia is sometimes used for distribution calculations. The aim is to reflect how changes in the compression flange area influence stiffness in regions of different bending moment signs and magnitudes. Given Data / Assumptions: Single-web I-sections (rolled or built-up) with variable flange area along the beam. Compression flange governs flexural stiffness; tension flange may differ between spans. We focus on the region of maximum bending moment (support for negative moment or midspan for positive moment). Concept / Approach: The compression flange is the primary contributor to flexural stiffness because instability and yielding limit its effectiveness first. A common adjustment multiplies the geometric moment of inertia I (about the Y–Y axis at the point of maximum moment) by a ratio of compression flange areas between a less severe region (often the minimum bending moment region) and the severe region (maximum bending moment). This reduces the stiffness used in analysis to reflect the flange curtailment effects. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify relevant flange: compression flange at each region.Form area ratio = A_comp, min BM / A_comp, max BM.Modified inertia at max BM = I_Y–Y (at max BM) * (A_comp, min / A_comp, max). Verification / Alternative check: Where cover plates are curtailed, the compression flange width/thickness varies. Using this ratio provides a pragmatic stiffness modification that mirrors the actual flange participation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Ratio using tension flange (option b) does not represent compression-side stiffness control. Option c simplifies to 1 and ignores the variation; not meaningful. “None of these” is incorrect because the compression-flange ratio is used. Common Pitfalls: Confusing which flange is in compression at different spans (negative vs positive bending). Using gross I without accounting for flange curtailment, leading to overly stiff models. Final Answer: Area of compression flange at the minimum bending moment / area of compression flange at the maximum bending moment.

Steel Structure Design Questions