ETC ETC Construction Methods & Equipment

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of shoring in an excavation?

Accepted Answer

To support the walls of an excavation and prevent cave-in

Answer

Shoring systems such as trench boxes, sheet piling, or timber shoring support excavation walls to protect workers from cave-in hazards.

Question 2

What type of pile derives its bearing capacity primarily from friction along its length?

Accepted Answer

Friction pile

Answer

A friction pile transfers structural load to the soil through skin friction along the pile shaft rather than bearing on a hard stratum.

Question 3

What equipment is commonly used to compact granular fill material in lifts during earthwork?

Accepted Answer

Vibratory roller

Answer

A vibratory roller combines static weight and vibration to densify granular soils and base materials effectively.

Question 4

What is the minimum concrete cover for reinforcing steel in a slab not exposed to weather per ACI 318?

Accepted Answer

0.75 inch (three-quarters inch)

Answer

ACI 318 requires a minimum three-quarters-inch cover for non-prestressed bars in slabs not exposed to weather when cast against stay-in-place forms.

Question 5

What is the function of a motor grader on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

To fine-grade and level earthwork surfaces to precise elevations

Answer

A motor grader uses a long adjustable blade to cut, spread, and finish earthwork surfaces to specified grades and cross-slopes.

(ETC) Engineering Technician Certification Practice Test