CFB Blueprint Reading & Interpretation 3

Question 1

On electrical drawings, what does the symbol for a duplex outlet (two parallel lines with a circle) represent?

Accepted Answer

A standard 120V duplex receptacle

Answer

The standard symbol of two parallel lines with a circle represents a duplex (two-outlet) 120V wall receptacle on electrical plans.

Question 2

What does 'AFF' stand for in construction drawings?

Accepted Answer

Above Finished Floor

Answer

AFF means 'Above Finished Floor' and is used to define the height of features like outlets, switches, or handrails measured from the finished floor surface.

Question 3

In a structural steel drawing, what does 'W8×31' designate?

Accepted Answer

A wide-flange beam 8 inches deep weighing 31 pounds per linear foot

Answer

W-shape designations list the nominal depth in inches followed by the weight per linear foot, so W8×31 is a wide-flange section 8" deep at 31 lb/ft.

Question 4

A detail drawing on a blueprint is used to:

Accepted Answer

Provide a large-scale view of a specific, complex portion of the design

Answer

Detail drawings zoom in on complex connections or assemblies to provide precise construction information that would be unclear at the sheet's overall scale.

Question 5

When a drawing calls out 'NTS,' what should the field builder understand?

Accepted Answer

Not to scale — do not scale measurements from this drawing

Answer

'NTS' (Not to Scale) warns that the drawing is a schematic or diagram and that dimensions must come from noted values, not from measuring the paper.

(CFB) Certified Field Builder Practice Test

(CFB) Certified Field Builder Practice Test

CFB Blueprint Reading & Interpretation 3