UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (Hons.) Built Environment Studies
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: AUD 1202
Unit Title: History and Theory
Studies II
Date: Wednesday 4th September 2013
Time: 09.15-10.45
__________________________________________________________________
ANSWER ANY TWO (2) QUESTIONS. EACH QUESTION CARRIES 50% of the final
mark of this examination paper.
1. According to Vitruvius, the virtues of architecture are commodity, firmness and
delight. Discuss.
2. “The higher the building the lower the morals” (Noel Coward). Discuss.
3. “The mother art is architecture. Without an architecture of our own we have no soul
of
our
own
civilisation”
(Frank
Lloyd
Wright).
Discuss.
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (Hons.) in Built Environment Studies
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: AUD2211 Unit Title:Studies in Maltese
Architecture
Date: 3 September 2013
Time: 09.15 - 11.15 a.m.
Compile illustrated essays on TWO (2) of the following themes concerning the
architectural history of the Maltese Islands.
1. Megalithic manifestations in Prehistoric Malta
2. Mdina – from a Carthaginian city to a Baroque town
3. The defence of Malta in the time of the Knights, 1530 – 1798
4. The foundation of the city-fortress of Valletta.
5. The Baroque architecture of Malta, 1600 – 1750
6. Fortifications and civil architecture in Malta under British Rule
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UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR V
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: AUD4005
Unit Title: LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE 1
Date: Thursday 5th September 2013
Time: 09.15 – 11.15
CHOOSE ANY THREE QUESTIONS. ALL QUESTIONS CARRY EQUAL MARKS.
1. Discuss Medieval landscape design and its effect on urban design.
2. Are Baroque gardens still relevant in our times?
3. Discuss the importance of spatial design in landscape architecture.
4. Time plays an important part in the design of a landscape. Discuss.
5. Colours are a means to animate a landscape design. Discuss how these together with
outer aesthetical features and help in the design of a garden.
Page 1 of 1
1
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR 4
SEPTEMBER 2013 RE-SIT EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: AUD 4008
Unit Title: URBAN ECONOMICS
AND DEVELOPMENT FINANCE
Date: Tuesday 3rd September 2013
Time: 09.15 – 11.15hrs
__________________________________________________________________________
ANSWER TWO QUESTIONS, ONE FROM EACH SECTION.
WRITE YOUR ANSWERS ON THE SAME BOOKLET.
SECTION A:
1.
With specific reference to urban economics principles, explain why people
and firms are attracted to urban areas. Also discuss why such areas
experience different growth patterns. (50 marks)
2.
Explain, from an urban economics point of view, the phenomenon of
commercial clustering within urban areas. (50 marks)
SECTION B:
3.
Discuss the importance of financing opportunities and market research in
property development. (50 marks)
4.
Identify the various key actors involved in the property development
process, discuss their objectives, and explain their determining role on the
feasibility of the process. (50 marks)
page 1 of 1
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR V
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: AUD4027
Unit Title: LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE III
Date: Monday 2nd September 2013
Time: 09.15 – 11.15
ANSWER THREE QUESTIONS IN ALL.
CHOOSE ONE QUESTION FROM EACH SECTION
AND ONE FROM ANY OF THE TWO SECTIONS.
ALL QUESTIONS CARRY EQUAL MARKS.
SECTION I
1. Discuss the evolution of landscape design since the Knights’ era.
2. In an arid environment water plays an important part in landscape design. Discuss the
design considerations to take when designing a water garden.
3. Vegetation adds value to a garden, being aesthetic, financial or recreational. Discuss the
statement.
_____________________________________________________________________________
SECTION II
1. Discuss landscape urbanism and how its concepts can be used for Malta.
2. What are the effects of the Florence Convention? Discuss
3. Landscape architecture is constantly changing. Discuss how an architect can create a
narrative to use these constant changes.
Page 1 of 1
1
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE3001 Unit Title: Construction Systems
and Materials 4
Date: 10 September 2013
Time: 09.15 - 11.15 a.m.
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER QUESTION 1 AND ANY OTHER 5 QUESTIONS
Question 1 carries 40 marks. All other questions carry 12 marks each.
Sketches and drawings are to be drawn in pencil using conventional symbols and properly
labelled.
Masonr y wall
Exter nal masonr y wall
C
R.C. slab & floor finish
103.65m
103.50m
Existing soil and fill
100.00m
B
100.15m
A
FIGURE 1
1.
A two-storey building is to be constructed along an existing slope between two
streets. The datum level on the lower street is assumed to be 100.00m while on the upper
street 103.50m as shown in the sketch in Figure 1. Internal finished floor levels are as
indicated in the figure. The building is constructed of concrete block masonry, all walls
being loadbearing. The site consists of a stiff clay covered with a shallow layer of topsoil.
All topsoil has to be removed before building operations commence. All external walls
must have a U-value not exceeding 0.4 W/m² K. By means of a well-labelled drawing
drawn approximately to scale draw the details marked A, B, C in figure 1. A strip
foundation is to be used for all walls and solid floors are required. You may make any
reasonable assumption as to materials and finishes other than the ones indicated. (16 marks
for detail A, 12 marks each for details B and C)
2.
The basic principle of foundation design is that the permissible stress in the soil
cannot be exceeded. Show, indicating practical examples, how this requirement may be
achieved in the following situations:
(a) The permissible stress in the ground is considerably higher than the maximum stress
than will be imposed by the structure.
Page 1 of 3
(b) The permissible stress in the ground is close but higher than the average stress which
the whole building would impose.
(c) The permissible stress in the ground is lower than the average stress which the whole
building would impose. (4 marks for each part)
FIGURE 2
3.
Figure 2 shows a detail of a foundation to a low-rise building to include the solid
floor at ground floor level
(a) What is the minimum depth of the top surface of the strip foundation below
ground level? (2 marks)
(b) Indicate how you can calculate the width of the strip foundation. (3 marks)
(c) Discuss the function of the hardcore. (2 marks)
(d) How would the detail shown be modified if instead of polythene sheeting a
liquid type waterproofing is used as a damp proof membrane? (2 marks)
(e) Discuss the position of the damp proof course in the wall in relation to the
external ground level and the internal finished floor level. (3 marks)
4.
Describe the basic principles behind the design of the two types of semi-permeable
walls and show by means of a well-labelled sketch drawn approximately to scale a typical
construction for each of the two types. (6 marks for each part)
5.
(a) In the design of a window on an external wall of a building, it is important that
no thermal or damp bridging occurs. By means of suitable sketches show how this
requirement can be achieved in the case of a window in a masonry cavity wall built of stone
or concrete blocks. (8 marks)
(b) Arches have always been an effective way of constructing the head of openings
in masonry walls. Show how the head of a rectangular window 1.2 metres wide may be
constructed using an arch for the head. (4 marks)
6.
(a) Distinguish between bricks and blocks as used in masonry construction.
Page 2 of 3
(b) In many places where brick construction is traditional, external masonry
walls are being constructed with an external leaf in brick and the internal leaf in concrete
block. Why?
(c) What are the advantages of the use of blocks over the use of bricks in
masonry construction? (4 marks for each part)
7.
A house is to be built locally using masonry construction in stone. Secondary
components, such as doors and windows, in the building are to be supplied directly from
manufacturers who produce only components to standard sizes. It is not possible to modify
these dimensions. Describe the effects of this decision on the dimensional co-ordination of
spaces within this building. (12 marks)
8.
(a) The position of the water table is an important consideration in the
construction of basements. Discuss this statement indicating the precautions to be taken in
the construction of a basement if the finished floor level of the basement is below the level
of the water table. (8 marks)
(b) In traditional local town houses it was common to construct a basement
with cross-ventilation through it. What was the main function of this basement? (4 marks)
Page 3 of 3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE 4002
Unit Title: STRUCTURAL MASONRY
Date:
Monday 2nd September 2013
Time: 0915 - 1215hrs
________________________________________________________________________
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
This is an open book examination. Candidates are allowed access to textbooks and notes.
Programmable calculators are allowed in this examination, but not palm-top computers. No
means of electronic communication are allowed, and all mobiles/smart-phones must be
switched off during examination.
Fig.1 shows the plan and section of an abandoned building which is to be refurbished for use as
a café/bar, shops and offices. The existing building has stone masonry external walls, and cast
iron internal columns. The ground floor slab consists of stone masonry arches spanning over
cast iron beams, whilst the slabs over the ground and first floor consist of concrete slabs on
steel beams. The roof consists of timber rafters and tiles.
The thickness of the masonry walls at basement level is 550mm, at ground and first floor level,
450mm, and at second floor level, 350mm. The rise of the stone arches is 400mm; the
thickness of the voussoirs is 250mm. the arches are covered with “torba”, such that the
minimum thickness over the arch is 50mm.
The refurbishment will include the following alterations:
(i)
removal of part of the first floor slab to create a double height café/bar area;
(ii)
creation of two 4.2m clear span shop windows, by the removal of external wall
piers at ground floor;
(iii)
excavation of basement volume under the café/bar (front two bays) to create a
basement store;
(iv)
erection of a cantilevered balcony extension for the café/bar, on the rear
elevation.
It is required that the capacity of the floors is sufficient to carry the following variable
loadings:
roof:
0.75kN/m2
offices, shops, restaurant and kitchen: 4.0kN/m2
café/bar:
5.0kN/m2
The site is located in the town centre, exposed to a basic wind speed of 20ms-1. Ground
conditions consist of made-up ground up to -1m from main road level, stiff clay up to -4.5m,
(C=100kN/m2) , and middle globigerina below. Water table is at ca. -5m below main road level.
a. Prepare an illustrated assessment of the structural scheme of the modified fabric, clearly
indicating the functional framing, load transfer and stability aspects of the scheme. Indicate
what temporary works, if any, you would consider necessary for the safe carrying out of the
proposed refurbishment.
(15 marks)
b. Prepare a structural assessment of the external masonry wall on the north elevation of the
café/bar space, highlighting the effect of the removal of the first floor slab on the capacity of
this wall.
(20 marks)
c. Assess the capacity of the masonry wall at the basement, at X, after the basement volume
is excavated, indicating any wall strengthening required.
(20 marks)
d. Discuss how the capacity of the arches in the ground floor slab over the basement can be
analysed to assess the suitability of the slab for the proposed use. What would you think is
the most crucial limit on the capacity of this floor slab?
(15 marks)
e. If the cantilevered balcony extension, Z, is to be constructed out of steel beams embedded
into the masonry wall, verify whether the masonry wall at this level is capable of carrying
this extension.
(10 marks)
f.
If it is required that the columns at ground and first floor level in this double height space be
removed, and replaced by a truss under the four second floor columns affected, assess the
capacity of the masonry wall to carry the inserted truss, and sketch an appropriate
connection detail of the truss to the wall at Y.
(10 marks)
g. Assess the structural implications that arise from the opening of the shop windows. What
options are available if the heritage authorities are insisting on a stone masonry elevation?
(10 marks)
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (HONS.) BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BLH1301
Unit Title: Our Heritage and Us
Date: 4 Septembr 2013
Time: 09.15 – 10.45
Please choose and answer ONE of the following two questions, in essay form.
Allow at least 15 minutes to plan and structure your answer.
1 – Discuss some of the risks that development may pose to the historic environment,
and some approaches, principles and measures to manage and mitigate these risks.
Illustrate your answer with reference to practical examples.
2 – Give an outline of the main principles and goals of the World Heritage Convention.
How effectively are these goals being achieved in practice? What challenges are being
encountered? Discuss with reference to practical examples.
Page 1 of 1
1
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
BSc (Hons.) IN BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR I
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CNM1412
Unit Title: Building Elements I
th
Date: Tuesday 10 September 2013
Time: 09.15 - 10.45
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER QUESTION 1 AND ANY OTHER 5 QUESTIONS
Question 1 carries 40 marks. All other questions carry 12 marks each.
Sketches and drawings are to be drawn in pencil using conventional symbols and properly
labelled.
Masonr y wall
Exter nal masonr y wall
C
R.C. slab & floor finish
103.65m
103.50m
Existing soil and fill
100.00m
B
100.15m
A
FIGURE 1
1.
A two-storey building is to be constructed along an existing slope between two
streets. The datum level on the lower street is assumed to be 100.00m while on the upper
street 103.50m as shown in the sketch in Figure 1. Internal finished floor levels are as
indicated in the figure. The building is constructed of concrete block masonry, all walls
being loadbearing. The site consists of a stiff clay covered with a shallow layer of topsoil.
All topsoil has to be removed before building operations commence. All external walls
must have a U-value not exceeding 0.4 W/m² K. By means of a well-labelled drawing
drawn approximately to scale draw the details marked A, B, C in figure 1. A strip
foundation is to be used for all walls and solid floors are required. You may make any
reasonable assumption as to materials and finishes other than the ones indicated. (16 marks
for detail A, 12 marks each for details B and C)
Page 1 of 3
2.
The basic principle of foundation design is that the permissible stress in the soil
cannot be exceeded. Show, indicating practical examples, how this requirement may be
achieved in the following situations:
(a) The permissible stress in the ground is considerably higher than the maximum stress
than will be imposed by the structure.
(b) The permissible stress in the ground is close but higher than the average stress which
the whole building would impose.
(c) The permissible stress in the ground is lower than the average stress which the whole
building would impose. (4 marks for each part)
FIGURE 2
3.
Figure 2 shows a detail of a foundation to a low-rise building to include the solid
floor at ground floor level
(a) What is the minimum depth of the top surface of the strip foundation below
ground level? (2 marks)
(b) Indicate how you can calculate the width of the strip foundation. (3 marks)
(c) Discuss the function of the hardcore. (2 marks)
(d) How would the detail shown be modified if instead of polythene sheeting a
liquid type waterproofing is used as a damp proof membrane? (2 marks)
(e) Discuss the position of the damp proof course in the wall in relation to the
external ground level and the internal finished floor level. (3 marks)
4.
Describe the basic principles behind the design of the two types of semi-permeable
walls and show by means of a well-labelled sketch drawn approximately to scale a typical
construction for each of the two types. (6 marks for each part)
5.
(a) In the design of a window on an external wall of a building, it is important that
no thermal or damp bridging occurs. By means of suitable sketches show how this
Page 2 of 3
requirement can be achieved in the case of a window in a masonry cavity wall built of stone
or concrete blocks. (8 marks)
(b) Arches have always been an effective way of constructing the head of openings
in masonry walls. Show how the head of a rectangular window 1.2 metres wide may be
constructed using an arch for the head. (4 marks)
6.
(a) Distinguish between bricks and blocks as used in masonry construction.
(b) In many places where brick construction is traditional, external masonry
walls are being constructed with an external leaf in brick and the internal leaf in concrete
block. Why?
(c) What are the advantages of the use of blocks over the use of bricks in
masonry construction? (4 marks for each part)
7.
A house is to be built locally using masonry construction in stone. Secondary
components, such as doors and windows, in the building are to be supplied directly from
manufacturers who produce only components to standard sizes. It is not possible to modify
these dimensions. Describe the effects of this decision on the dimensional co-ordination of
spaces within this building. (12 marks)
8.
(a) The position of the water table is an important consideration in the
construction of basements. Discuss this statement indicating the precautions to be taken in
the construction of a basement if the finished floor level of the basement is below the level
of the water table. (8 marks)
(b) In traditional local town houses it was common to construct a basement
with cross-ventilation through it. What was the main function of this basement? (4 marks)
Page 3 of 3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (HONS.) BEN
YEAR I
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CNM1421
Unit Title: Materials and the Environment
Date: Tuesday 10th September 2013
Time: 09:15 – 10:45
Answer Question 1 and any other 2 questions.
Question 1. (30 Marks)
Outline the main stages of the Life Cycle of an apartment block. In your answer refer to the
different stages in the lifetime of the building, including the materials selection, construction
phase, the service life and the end-of-life stage of the building. Reference is to be made to
different components; structural elements and building fabric including the building envelope and
insulation.
Question 2. (35 marks)
(i) With reference to building stone blocks, outline and discuss the different steps in the
product life cycle from cradle to grave. In your answer refer to the extraction and
manufacturing processes, the construction stage and the performance of the system.
(ii) With reference to stone blocks, outline the different factors contributing to the embodied
energy and embodied carbon.
Question 3. (35 marks)
(i) Outline the end of life options of the following construction system: Structural Steel Frame
Structure with precast concrete slabs.
(ii) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different end of life options supporting your
answer with examples.
Question 4. (35 marks)
(i) Outline and Discuss the end of life options of the following construction system:
reinforced concrete, prefabricated frame structure with precast concrete slabs.
(ii) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different end of life options supporting your
answer with examples.
Page 1 of 1
1
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc.(Hons.) IN BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR II
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CNM 2421
Unit Title: Materials for Construction I
Date: Thursday 5th September 2013
Time: 09:15 – 11:15
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER ANY TWO QUESTIONS FROM EACH PART OF THE PAPER.
START THE ANSWER TO EACH QUESTION ON A FRESH PAGE
PART A
1. (a) Outline the main constituents in concrete and provide an indication of the relative
proportions in a normal concrete mix.
(9 marks)
(b) List and describe the main steps in the concrete mix design process, with particular
reference to the British Method of Concrete Mix Design (DoE Method).
(8 marks)
(c) With reference to the different concrete constituent materials, list the material
properties which are required as input data in the Mix Design Process (DoE Method)
(8 marks)
2. (a) Workability can be defined as the effort required in manipulating a concrete mix without
segregation. Discuss this statement with reference to the characteristics of fresh concrete.
Outline the characteristics of fresh concrete which are required for a workable concrete.
(9 marks)
(b) Describe why segregation and bleeding occur. Outline the effect of segregation and
bleeding on the hardened concrete.
(8 marks)
(c) Describe a concrete consistence test carried out on fresh concrete. Describe the
equipment used, outline the different steps carried out and discuss the significance of the
results obtained from the test.
(8 marks)
3. (a) With reference to the constituent materials and their proportions in a concrete mix,
discuss variations in the workability of fresh concrete and in the strength of hardened
concrete
(9 marks)
(b) Outline two different tests carried out on hardened concrete and for each test descirbe
briefly the test method and the significance of the results obtained
(8 marks)
Page 1 of 2
1
(c) Outline two different non-destructive tests carried out on hardened concrete. Explain
the merits and limitations of destructive and non-destructive tests.
(8 marks)
PART B
4.
(a) Indicate, and discuss, three technical advantages of using, in Malta, natural stone in
building construction, and three technical disadvantages.
(9 marks)
(b) What is the role of mortar in masonry construction? How do its mechanical properties
affect the properties of masonry ashlar construction? How does one ensure that the
joints in masonry wall construction are not a source of weakness?
(9 marks)
(c) The colloquial terminology used for Globigerina limestone is “tal-franka”. In geological
terms, what is the origin of Globigerina limestone, and what does the terminology refer
to? What implications does this have for the use of limestone in building?
(7 marks)
5. (a) What mechanical properties would you consider as important for the use of natural
limestone units for masonry construction? What are the differences between the
characteristic compressive strength, the mean compressive strength, and the normalized
compressive strength, as defined in EN 772-1? What are the salient features of the
procedures by which you would obtain these strength values?
(9 marks)
(b) Name and discuss at least three other properties, besides mechanical strength, which
you would consider as important to know, if one wanted to use natural limestone in the
construction of dwellings, and create a comfortable and safe internal environment?
(9 marks)
(c) Given that Globigerina limestone is extracted from natural rock, which is intrinsically
non-homogeneous, what quality procedures would you adopt, and what considerations
you make, so as to ensure that the declaration of the properties referred to in (a) and (b)
above is meaningful.
(7 marks)
6. (a) Distinguish between natural defects and conversion defects in timber, and show how
these defects affect the use of timber in carpentry and joinery.
(12 marks)
(b) In addition to timber, a large number of products derived from timber are available for
use in the building industry. Describe two such products, and indicate how they can
replace the use of timber. Are there any advantages in the use of these materials over
the use of timber?
(13 marks)
Page 2 of 2
2
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B. CONS. (HONS.)
YEAR III
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Study-unit code: CRS2203
Study Unit: HISTORY, TECHNOLOGY, COMPOSITION,
PROPERTIES, DETERIORATION AND CONSERVATION
OF CERAMICS AND GLASS
Date: 10th September 2013
Time: 09:15 -12:15
INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS:
This exam paper is divided in two sections: Section A on ceramics and Section B on glass.
Answer ALL questions in both sections.
You are advised to spend the same amount of time on each section.
Section A - Ceramics
1. Discuss: (i) the manufacturing techniques used to obtain red and black figure ceramic
wares; (ii) the developments of style during this period. (12 marks)
2. Briefly discuss the following statements:
- Maintaining a diffusion gradient is crucial when desalination is carried out. (9 marks)
- Gap filling for high-fired wares is likely to involve different materials than for low-fired
wares. (8 marks)
- Cleaning is an irreversible process. (8 marks)
3. Ceramics are generally considered chemically stable. How can environmental
conditions change, alter and deteriorate a ceramic? (12 marks)
Page 1 of 2
Section B - Glass
1. Highlight the differences between Roman glass and Venetian glass by discussing their
composition, the manufacturing techniques and the development. (13 marks)
2. List the main factors which can cause glass deterioration. Give a brief description of
the deterioration mechanism of two of these factors.
3.
(12 marks)
The curator of the National Museum of Archaeology requested a condition
assessment of a narrow necked Roman glass bottle presently found in the museum’s
stores before this object is exhibited temporarily within the same museum. The bottle
was not excavated as a whole: it was found in 4 pieces and with one part of its sides
missing.
The object was then restored and assembled with cellulose nitrate as an adhesive. The
lacuna was not filled since the shape of the object was readable. The glass fabric is
stable but the adhesive has yellowed and has become brittle with time.
a. Discuss the implications which need to be considered and give your
recommendations for all the options listed below:
i. The object is left untreated. (4 marks)
ii. The object is cleaned from the past restoration and exhibited as
fragments. (4 marks)
iii. The object is dismantled and re-assembled with a different adhesive.
(4 marks)
b. With reference to case (iii) above state the type of adhesive you would
choose giving reason/s. List the advantages and disadvantages in using
this type of adhesive when compared to the cellulose nitrate taking into
consideration the chemical composition and characteristics of both types of
adhesives.
(13 marks)
Page 2 of 2
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (Hons.) in Built Environment Studies
YEAR I
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CVE 1612
Unit Title: STRUCTURES I
Date: Wednesday 4th September 2013
Time: 09:15 – 11:15
________________________________________________________________________
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER ALL PARTS OF QUESTION No.1 IN SECTION A
ANSWER ANY THREE QUESTIONS IN SECTION B
CANDIDATES ARE ALLOWED THE USE OF CALCULATORS AND GRAPH PAPER
________________________________________________________________________________
SECTION A
1.
(a) Given that the Bulk Modulus of Elasticity, K, is defined as the ratio of the applied
axial stress to the volumetric strain, obtain an expression for K for a bar of rectangular
cross-section a x 3a and of length, 9a, which is loaded axially in tension.
[8 Marks]
(b) Explain concisely what is meant by the term ‘shear centre of a cross-section’.
Describe how the application of a load on a beam cross-section can be effected by the
position of the shear centre.
[8 Marks]
(c) A simply-supported beam of span L is discretized into 5 nodes (Nodes 1 and 5 at the
pinned supports and the other nodes spaced equally at L/4). The stiffness influence
coefficient giving the force required at the jth node to cause a unit displacement at the
ith node is defined as kij. Using the Principle of Superposition, obtain an expression for
the deflection at the mid-span of the beam if point loads of P2 and P4 are applied
respectively at Nodes 2 and 4 along the beam.
[9 Marks]
Page 1 of 5
________________________________________________________________________________
SECTION B
2.
From strain gauge readings taken at a point within a structure under plane stress
conditions, it was found that the stresses with respect to a set of X-Y co-ordinate axes
were σx = 65N/mm2, σy = −25N/mm2 and τxy = 35N/mm2. Using Mohr's Circle
graphical construction, determine (i) the direct and shear stresses acting on a plane at
an angle of 30˚ to the Y-axis;
(ii) the magnitude and direction of the maximum
and minimum principal stresses;
(iii) the magnitude and direction of the maximum
shear stress.
Assuming that the material elastic constants are E = 200,000N/mm2 and ν = 0.30, find
also the principal strains at that point.
[25 Marks]
3.
A simply-supported beam has a T-shaped cross section with an overall depth of
350mm. The top flange has a width of 125mm and a thickness 20mm, while the web
thickness is 12mm. Given that the maximum shear force at a section along the beam is
45kN, determine the maximum shear stress in the web of the beam and the shear stress
at the web/top flange junction.
[25 Marks]
4.
A simply-supported beam with a span of 3.5m has a rectangular hollow cross-section
with an overall depth of 300mm and an overall width of 150mm. The top and bottom
flanges have thicknesses of 18mm and 10mm respectively, while the two vertical webs
each have a thickness of 6mm. Given that maximum shear force and the maximum
sagging bending moment within the beam are 40kN and 110kNm respectively,
determine the maximum shear stress and the maximum tensile and compressive
bending stresses within the cross-section of the beam.
[25 Marks]
5.
A timber beam with a cross-section of 200mm width x 500mm depth is strengthened by
a steel plate, having cross-sectional dimensions of 150mm x 12mm, that is glued
centrally to the bottom face of the timber beam. The modulus of elasticity of steel and
timber are 200kN/mm2 and 10kN/mm2 respectively. Furthermore, the maximum
allowable bending stresses in the steel and the timber are 120N/mm2 and 10N/mm2
Page 2 of 5
respectively. Determine the maximum bending moment of resistance of the composite
beam cross-section.
[25 Marks]
6.
A steel beam has a channel C-shaped cross-section with an overall depth of 200mm.
The top and bottom flanges each have an overall width of 85mm and a thickness of
18mm, while the web thickness is 6mm. Using Mohr’s Circle graphical construction,
determine the position of the principal axes of bending and the magnitude of the
principal moments of inertia of the cross-section of the beam.
[25 Marks]
Page 3 of 5
________________________________________________________________________________
General Hints
(i)
The principal stresses, σ1 and σ2 are given by :
E
ε1 + ν ε2
1 – ν2
E
σ2 =
ε2 + ν ε1
1 – ν2
σ1 =
where, ε1 and ε2 are the principal strains, ν is Poisson's ratio and E is the modulus of
elasticity.
(ii)
The shear stress, τ, at a Point A at a distance, y, away from the neutral axis of a beam of
prismatic cross-section, with at least one axis of symmetry and subjected to bending
only is given by:
V A' y'
τ =
.
Ib
In this expression, V is the applied shear force, A' is the cross-sectional area of that part
of the section between Point A and the extreme fibre of the section, y' is the distance of
the centroid of A' from the neutral axis, I is the moment of inertia of the whole crosssection and b is the width of the section at Point A.
(iii) The fundamental equation of bending at a section along a beam with, at least, one axis
of symmetry is given by:
M = σ = E
y
I
R
where, M is the applied moment, I is the moment of inertia, s is the bending stress at a
distance y away from the neutral axis, E is Young's Modulus of Elasticity and R is the
radius of curvature of the beam.
(iv) The major axis moment of inertia of a rectangular beam of dimensions b x d is given
by:
IMajor =
(v)
bd
12
3
The minor axis moment of inertia of a rectangular beam of dimensions b x d is given
by:
IMinor
d b3
=
12
(vi) The moment of inertia about a diameter of a circular beam of diameter, d, is given by:
Page 4 of 5
I =
π d4
64
(vii) The moment of inertia about the centroidal axis of a triangular beam with a base
dimension, b, and a depth, d, is given by:
I =
b d3
36
(viii) The moment of inertia, IBB, of a section about a given axis at a distance, h, from the
neutral axis is obtained using the Parallel Axis Theorem, that is:
IBB = I AA + A h2
where, IAA is the moment of inertia of the section about the centroidal axis and A is the
cross-sectional area.
________________________________________________________________________________
Page 5 of 5
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (HONS.) in Built Environment Studies
YEAR I
SEPTEMBER 2013 RE-SIT EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CVE 1632
Unit Title: Introduction to Data Management
Time: 09.15 – 10.45 hrs
Date: Wednesday 4th September 2013
_____________________________________________________________________
Candidates are allowed the use of programmable calculators during the
examination.
PART A must be answered by all candidates, then the question in Part B and one
question from Part C.
___________________________________________________________________________
Total marks for this examination 75marks
PART A (compulsory question, all parts of this section must be answered)
Q1. The section of statistics which involves the collection, organization summarizing
and presentation of data relating to some population or sample is
Descriptive statistics
The study of statistics
Inferential
statistics
An example of a frequency distribution
[1 mark]
Q2. A subset of the population selected to help make inferences on a population is
called
(a) A sample
(b) A census
(c) Inferential statistics
(d) A population
[1 mark]
Q3. The number of occurrences of a data value is called
(a) The class limits
(b) The cumulative frequency
(c) The frequency
(d) The relative frequency
[1 mark]
Q4.A large collection of data may be condensed by constructing
(a) classes
(b) a frequency polygon
(c) class limits
(d) a frequency distribution
[1 mark]
Page 1 of 7
Q5. When straight-line segments are connected through the midpoints at the top of the
rectangles of a histogram with the two ends tied down to the horizontal axis, the
resulting graph is called
(a) A bar chart
(b) A pie chart
(c) A frequency polygon
(d) A frequency distribution
[1 mark]
Q6. The graphical display with the relative frequency along the vertical axis that may
be constructed for quantitative data is
(a) the pie chart
(b) the bar chart
(c) the histogram
(d) all the above
[1 mark]
Q7. Which of the following is not a measure of central tendency?
(a) Mode
(b) Variability
(c) Median
(d) Mean
[1 mark]
Using the following frequency distribution for questions 8 to 10
X values
20
29
30
39
44
frequency
2
4
4
3
2
Q8. The mean of the distribution is
(a) 32.4
(b) 30
(c) 39
(d) 32.07
[1 mark]
Q9. The median of the distribution is
(a) 4
(b) 30
(c) 29.5
(d) 34.5
[1 mark]
Q10. The mode of the distribution is
(a) 29
(b) 30
(c) 29 and 30
(d) None of the above
[1 mark]
Page 2 of 7
Q11. If the number of values in a data set is even, and the numbers are ordered then
(a) The median cannot be found.
(b) The median is the average of the two middle numbers
(c) The median, mode and mean are equal
(d) None of the above answers are correct
[1 mark]
Q12. Which of the following would be affected the most if there is an extremely large
value in the data set?
(a) The mean
(b) The median
(c) The frequency
(d) The mode
[1 mark]
Q13. Which of the following is not a measure of central tendency?
(a) Mean
(b) Q3
(c) Median
(d) Mode
[1 mark]
Q14. Which of the following is not a measure of dispersion?
(a) Interquartile range
(b) Range
(c) Median
(d) Coefficient of variation
[1 mark]
Q15. Which of the following is the crudest measure of dispersion?
(a) The mean absolute deviation
(b) The variance
(c) The mode
(d) The range
[1 mark]
Q16. The following are given for a set of values
I. The values ranged from 40 to 95
II. The median value was 79
III. 25 percent of the values are less than or equal to 62
IV. 75 percent of the values are less than or equal to 90.
From the above information, the interquartile range for the data set is
(a) 55
(b) 28
(c) 50
(d) 33
Page 3 of 7
[1 mark]
Q17. The vertical sides on a horizontal box plot are located at
(a) The minimum value and the first quartile of the data set
(b) The minimum value and the maximum value of the data set
(c) The first quartile and the third quartile of the data set.
(d) The third quartile and the maximum value of the data set
[1 mark]
Q18. In a box plot if the left whisker is longer than the right whisker, the distribution
of the data values will be
(a) negatively skewed
(b) positively skewed
(c) symmetrical
(d) uniform
[1 mark]
Q19. Which of the following is associated with correlation and regression analyses?
(a) Least-squares
(b) Correlation coefficient
(c) Coefficient of determination
(d) All the above
[1 mark]
Q20. For the simple linear regression model, if all the points on a scatter plot lie on a
straight line with correlation coefficient r = -1.0, then the slope of the regression line
is
(a) -1.0
(b) +1.0
(c) positive
(d) negative
[1 mark]
Q21. In a normal distribution, the distribution will be less spread out when
(a) The median of the data is small
(b) The mean of the data is small
(c) The mode of the data is small
(d) The standard deviation of the raw score is small.
[1 mark]
Q22. Two events are mutually exclusive if the occurrence of one depends on the
occurrence of the other.
(a) True
(b) False
[1 mark]
Page 4 of 7
Q23. Probability of an event is always a number between 0 and 1, inclusive.
(a) True
(b) False
[1 mark]
Q24. The complement of an event and the event itself are mutually exclusive.
(a) True
(b) False
[1 mark]
Q25.The standard normal distribution has a mean of 0 and a variance of 1
(a) True
(b) False
[1 mark]
[Total 25 marks]
PART B: answer the following question
Question B1.
Identify a quantitative and a qualitative research method which are available to spatial
planners, and discuss the characteristics of each method.
[25 marks]
PART C: answer any one of the following questions.
Part 3 Choose ONE question from this section.
Question C1.
Identify an application where GIS technologies are used and explain the issues
associated with the collection and use of geographic data. Discuss in particular the
issues of secondary data and data quality.
(25 marks)
Question C2.
Using an example of GIS application in the areas of planning or land use
management, explain the purpose and utility of each of the five basic functions of a
GIS.
(25 marks)
Page 5 of 7
FORMULATIONS
(a) The mean value can be found from:
where
xi
N
is the value of the “i th” data point in the sample.
is the total number of data points in the sample.
(b) The standard deviation of a sample can be found from:
where
xi
N
is the value of the “i th” data point in the sample.
is the sample mean.
is the total number of data points in the sample.
Regression Analysis:
(c) The regression coefficient “r” for paired data points can be found from:
where
x&y
n
are x and y values of the paired data points.
is the number of paired data points in the sample.
(d) The general equation for a straight line is defined as:
y = ax + b
Page 6 of 7
where
a
b
is the slope of the line
is the y intercept value
x&y
n
are the x and y values of the paired data points.
is the number of paired data points in the sample.
and
where
Page 7 of 7
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc.(Hons.) IN BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR II
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CVE 2611
Date: Tuesday 3rd September 2013
Unit Title: Structural Design I
Time: 09:15 – 11:15
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER QUESTION 1 AND ONE QUESTION FROM EACH PART
START THE ANSWER TO EACH QUESTION ON A FRESH PAGE
QUESTIONS ALL CARRY THE SAME TOTAL MARK OF 25; THE TOTAL WILL BE
CONVERTED TO A PERCENTAGE FOR GRADING PURPOSES.
Q1.
(a)
In the behaviour of reinforced concrete flexural elements, what determines failure?
What do you understand by the term “linear strain variation”, and what is its
significance in the context of the behaviour of reinforced concrete flexural elements?
What do you understand by the term “rectangular stress block”?
[5 marks]
Fig. 1
Page 1 of 6
(b)
Obtain the ultimate moment of resistance of the beam section indicated in Figure 1,
if the characteristic cylinder strength of the concrete used in the section is 35N/mm2, and the
yield stress of the steel is 500N/mm2. Explain all the steps in your calculation.
[20 marks]
PART A
Q2.
(a)
In the context of the design of reinforced concrete flexural elements, what do you
understand by the following statement:
“in order to ensure ductile failure, the neutral axis of the beam should not exceed
approximately half the effective depth”;
[6 marks]
(b)
A reinforced concrete slab in a commercial building is supported by simply-supported
reinforced concrete beams, of 6.5m span, and spaced at 4m centres. The
characteristic loading consists of:
175mm thk. slab self-weight: 4.2kN/m2
finishes:
3.5kN/m2
variable load:
4.5kN/m2
(i)
If the architectural constraints limit the breadth of the beam to 300mm, and
the total effective depth of the beam, to 450mm, design the steel required for
the section to satisfy the ultimate limit state for bending.
(ii)
If there were no architectural constraint on the depth of the beam, how would
you change the design, to satisfy the ultimate limit state for bending?
[8 marks]
[6 marks]
For both cases, you can assume that concrete of cylinder strength 30N/mm2, and high yield
steel, grade 510, can be used. For both cases, prepare clear, annotated, sketches showing
the reinforcement details.
[5 marks]
Hints:
(you should know what the terms mean and when to use them)
lever arm
K
compression reinforcement
tension reinforcement
stress in compression steel
moment capacity of flanged beam
=
=
Page 2 of 6
+
(
)
tension reinforcement of flanged beam
Q3.
+
(a)
What mechanisms contribute to the shear strength of a reinforced concrete beam,
and how are they taken into account in the shear design of reinforced concrete beams?
[5 marks]
(b)
Figure 2 shows a monolithic reinforced concrete slab supported on five reinforced
concrete beams. The supporting beam span is 10.5m, whilst the spacing between beams, ln,
is 2.3m clear. The slab supports 1.2m depth of soil. The slab thickness is 125mm. The
density of the soil is 20 kN/m3, whilst the density of concrete is 24kN/m3.
You are required to design the shear reinforcement of an internal reinforced concrete
beam supporting the slab, if the overall depth of the beam should not be less than span/15,
and if the breadth of the beam, bw, is required not to be greater than 300mm. Prepare clear,
annotated, sketches showing the reinforcement details.
You can assume that concrete of cylinder strength 35N/mm2, and high ductility steel, grade
500, is available. For the purposes of the shear design, you can assume that the tensile
reinforcement anchored at the support of a typical beam has a cross-sectional area of
3000mm2.
[20 marks]
Fig. 2
Hints:
(you should know what the terms mean and when to use them)
design shear stress
min. concrete strut capacity
max. concrete strut capacity
Page 3 of 6
concrete strut angle
=
shear reinforcement Asw from
[
]
=
PART B
Q4.
A steel beam , fully restrained against lateral movement, consisting of an IPE 400 section,
as shown in Figure 3, spaning 6.0 (six metres), supports a uniformly distributed load
of 10kN/m, in addition to a 100kN point load located two metres (2.0m) from the left
hand support of the beam. Assume that all loads are factored, and that the self-weight
of the beam is included in the uniformly distributed load. The material grade is S275.
(a) Determine the value of the reaction at the left hand support of the beam.
[2 marks]
(b) Determine the value of the bending moment directly under the point load.
[2 marks]
(c) Determine the value of the bending moment at the centre of the beam.
[2 marks]
(d) Sketch and annotate the bending moment diagram for the beam.
[3 marks]
(e) Sketch and annotate the shear force diagram for the beam.
[3 marks]
(f) Obtain the ratio of the applied bending moment ( MED) to the moment of the resistance
(MRD) of the beam, at the point where the point load is applied. Assume that the section is
a class 1 section, and that the tensile yield stress (fy) of the steel beam is 275 N/mm2.
[4 marks]
(g) Obtain the ratio of the applied shear (VED)to the shear resistance of the beam (VRD)at
the left hand support, again assuming that the section is a class one section and that the
tensile yield stress (fy) of the steel beam is 275 N/mm2.
Assume that the shear area of the beam Av is given by:
Av
is the shear area of the beam
A
is the cross-sectional area of the beam
b
is the breadth of the flange
tf
is the thickness of the flange
tw
is the thickness of the web of the beam
r
is the root radius
Hint: the shear stress is equal to the material yield stress/
[4 marks]
(h) If the ratio of the applied bending moment (MED) to the moment of resistance (MRD) of
the beam where equal to 1.0, what would be the value of the intensity of the uniformly
Page 4 of 6
distributed load , assuming that the point load load where retained at a value of
100kN.
[5 marks]
Q5.
A steel beam, IPE400, fully restrained against lateral movement shown in Figure 3,
spanning four and a half metres (4.5m), is subject to a uniformly distributed load of
25kN/m along its entire length, in addition to a point load P kN, placed two metres (2.0m)
from the right hand support of the beam. The applied loads are factored, the selfweight of the beam is already included in the uniformly distributed load. The material grade
is S275.
(a) Determine the value of the point load P KN, in addition to the uniformly distributed load,
that the IPE 400 beam, can safely carry taking into consideration bending actions only.
[6 marks]
(b) Determine the value of the point load PkN in addition to the uniformly distributed load, that
the IPE400 beam , can safely carry taking into consideration shear actions only.
[5 marks]
Given that the shear area of the beam Av is given by:
Av
A
b
tf
tw
r
is the shear area of the beam
is the cross-sectional area of the beam
is the breadth of the flange
is the thickness of the flange
is the thickness of the web of the beam
is the root radius
Hint: the shear stress is equal to the material yield stress/
(c) What is the ultimate failure mode, and ultimate failure load for the point load P kN, for
this beam configuration.
[4 marks]
(d) Sketch and annotate the bending moment diagram for the load combination that causes
ultimate failure of the beam.
[5 marks]
(e) Sketch and annotate the shear force diagram for the load combination that causes
ultimate failure of the beam.
[5 marks]
Page 5 of 6
Page 6 of 6
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc.(Hons.) IN BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR II
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CVE 2612
Unit Title: Structural Design 2
Date: Monday 9th September 2013
Time: 09:15 – 11:15
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER ONE QUESTION FROM EACH PART
START THE ANSWER TO EACH QUESTION ON A FRESH PAGE
QUESTIONS ALL CARRY THE SAME TOTAL MARK OF 50
PART A
Q1.
(a) With the aid of sketches, write short notes on the following:
(i)
Why does Column Flexural Buckling manifest itself in axially loaded load?
(ii)
What geometric and sectional properties influence Column flexural buckling?
(iii)
At what point in the column does failure occur. Draw the stress distribution at the
point of failure.
(iv)
What is the failure criteria for column buckling? Why do we adopt this
definition?
[20 marks]
(b) A HEA 220 section, six and a half (6.5) metres in length, cross-section shown in
Figure 1 is subjected to an axial load F kN at each end. A steel grade of S235 is to be
assumed. The support conditions at the top of the column allow free rotation about the
YY axis (major axis), and partial rotation about the ZZ axes (minor axis) of section,
whilst the support conditions at the lower end of the column all for free rotation to occur
about the YY and the ZZ axes. The ends of the column are also restrained against lateral
displacements in both the YY or ZZ planes. An intermediate lateral support located at mid
height of the column provides restraint against displacements in the YY plane, whilst
allowing rotations to occur. The column at mid height is free to displace in the ZZ
plane.
Note: The critical buckling load Ncr of an axially load column can be found from the
general equation:
Page 1 of 10
N cr =
π 2E I
 Lcr  
 L  L
 

2
Determine the axial load, F kN, and the axis about which the column will fail.
[30 marks]
Page 2 of 10
Q2.
(a) Explain with the aid of annotated sketch why Lateral-Torsional Buckling occurs in
unrestrained beams. Explain what measures you can take to avoid lateral torsional
buckling.
[20 marks]
(b) A simply supported beam, six and a half (6.5) metres in length, shown in Figure 2,
having a steel grade of S275, is loaded by a uniformly distributed load of over its entire
length you can assume that the load acts at the neutral axis of the beam. Neglecting
the effects of self-weight of the beam and assuming the following values:
fy
= 275 N/mm2
Page 3 of 10
fu
gm0
= 430 N/mm2
= 1.0
If the compression flange is laterally restrained at its supports assuming that k = 1.0,
and that the ends of the beam flanges are free to rotate in plan and kw =1.0, determine the
following:
(a) The Plastic Moment capacity of the beam cross-section.
(b) The Elastic Moment capacity of the beam cross-section.
(c) The Lateral-Torsional Buckling capacity of the beam cross-section.
Note: The elastic critical moment for lateral torsional buckling being given by:

M cr

2
π 2 E I z   k  I w (kL) G I t 


= C1
+


(kL)2   k w  I z π 2 E I z 
2


where
E:
G:
k
kw
C1
Iz
It
Iw
Young modulus
Shear modulus
effective length factor
= 1.0
warping effective length factor
= 210000N/mm2
= 81000 N/mm2
= 1.0
= 1.127
is the second moment of area about the weak axis
is the torsion constant
is the warping constant
[30 marks]
Page 4 of 10
Page 5 of 10
PART B
Q3.
(a)
Discuss the implications of the following terms in the design of reinforced concrete
columns: “slender/short columns”, “axially-loaded/eccentrically-loaded columns”,
“braced/unbraced columns”.
[5 marks]
(b)
A reinforced concrete column supports the centre point of a two span continuous
beam, and the end of another beam spanning normal to the continuous beam. The spans in
the continuous beam are equal, and the depth of all beams is 750mm. The line of action of
the reaction from the three beams can be assumed to be acting at 125mm from the
centroidal axis of the column. At the bottom, the column is connected to a pad foundation
that can be considered as providing not more than a nominal restraint to rotation. The length
of the column is 12m, measured from top of foundation up to underside of beams. The total
reaction from the three beams is 12500 kN.
What is the minimum dimension of the sides of a square column that can be used to carry
this load, such that there are no slenderness effects?
Obtain the reinforcement of the column, if the column can have this minimum dimension.
Assume that the Grade 40 concrete, and steel with a yield stress of 500N/mm2, is available.
Assume also that the minimum cover to all steel should be 30mm.
[20 marks]
If it were required to use a column whose side is not larger than 650mm, in the plane of the
continuous beam, design the reinforcement in the column.
[15 marks]
In both cases sketch and detail the reinforcement layout, in section and elevation.
[10 marks]
The following information is extracted from or based on EN 1992-1-1:2004. (See also the
diagram at the end of the paper)
λlim = 10
λcrit = 25
MEd = MoEd + M2
where
MoEd is the 1st order moment, including the effect of imperfections,
M2 is the nominal 2nd order moment = NEd e2
NEd is the design value of the axial force
e2 = fyk (lo/d)2 10-6 mm
fyk is the characteristic strength of steel in MPa
lo is the effective length
d is the effective depth of the column section in the direction considered
ea = lo/400
ea is the accidental eccentricity (out of plumb column)
Page 6 of 10
Q4.
A factory building, 20m x 60m on plan, and 9m high, is enclosed by an external
masonry wall. The stone masonry units to be used have a uni-axial normalised mean
compressive strength of 15kN/sq.mm, and have the following dimensions: 265mm
high, 450mm long, 175mm thick. General purpose mortar, of strength class M2,
approximately 5mm thick, will be used. Write down the form of the equation that
relates the strength of the units and of the mortar to the characteristic compressive
strength of the masonry that can be built using these materials, outlining any
assumptions, and obtain the relative strength.
[5 marks]
The roof is to consist of a two-way spanning concrete slab, 200mm thick, resting on
steel girders at 5m spacing in the 20m direction. The factored load from the slab,
including finishes and imposed loads, is 14.5kN/sq.m, whilst the steel girders have a
section weighing 250kg/m. The 60m long elevation contains 3m high by 1.25m wide
windows at 2.5m spacing centre to centre.
If the roof structure is not monolithically connected to the external masonry wall, what
is the effective height of the wall, when calculating the slenderness ratio.
[5 marks]
Assuming that the load from the roof beams acts at an eccentricity of 0.35t, (where t
is the wall thickness), design the masonry pier, formed by the windows, that is
located vertically below the end of a typical steel girder.
[40 marks]
The following information is extracted from or based on EN 1996-1-1:2004.
λc = 15
(but λ< 27)
partial safety factor for these units and mortar:
Page 7 of 10
γm = 3
einit = hef/450
einit is the initial eccentricity accounting for construction imperfections
hef is the effective height = ρ2h, and ρ2 = 0.75, for walls restrained at the top and
bottom by reinforced concrete floors or roofs spanning from both sides at the same level or
by a reinforced concrete floor spanning from one side only and having a bearing of at least
2/3 of the thickness of the wall, unless the eccentricity of the load at the top of the wall is
greater than 0,25 times the thickness of wall in which case ρ2 = 1.0
where,
tef = ρt t
where,
tef is the effective wall thickness, t is wall thickness and ρt obtained from table
overleaf for walls stiffened by piers, and for cavity wall tef = 3√(t13+t23).
where,
where,
Vertical Load capacity is NRd = Φ t fd
Φi (at the top or bottom of wall) = 1-2 ei/t
ei (at the top or bottom of wall) = Mid/Nid + einit
emk(at middle of wall) = Mmd/Nmd + einit
Φm (at middle of wall) can be obtained from graph overleaf
under concentrated loads, NRdc = β Ab fd
β can be obtained from graph overleaf
Ab is the loaded area, Aef the effective area of bearing at mid-height taking into
account 60o dispersion, and a1 the distance from end of wall to nearer face of
bearing.
Page 8 of 10
Page 9 of 10
Page 10 of 10
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.SC.(Hons.) IN BUILT EVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR 2
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: CVE2621
Unit Title: Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering
Date: Thursday 5th September 2013
Time: 09:15 - 10:45
Answers to the following questions should be very short, ideally in point form and
supported by diagrams if you consider these to be necessary. Provide calculations only
where specifically asked for.
The first three questions are compulsory and carry 10 marks each. Provide answers to 10
questions from the remaining questions, each of which carry 7 marks.
1.
Structural engineering and geotechnical engineering are fundamentally different because of
the materials involved. How does this change the approach to common engineering
situations, between the two disciplines?
2.
Using diagrams, explain how the ground can support a typical strip footing, and what
happens when the ground fails under such a footing. Explain why the depth of the footing,
the size and the shape need to be considered when carrying out calculations to determine
the capacity of a foundation.
3.
A retaining structure is to be built on rock to support 3m of granular material in preparation
for a new road. The following information is available, but you have no information as yet
regarding the type of fill that will be brought to site.
3
Material
Unit weight (kN/m )
Dense Clean Sand
Silty Sand
Loose mixed material
17.50
18.00
16.00
Angle of shearing
resistance (degrees)
33
30
35
Cohesion
(kPa)
0
3
0
2
The surcharge load to be assumed on the road is 20kN/m . Present typical calculations that
you would use in your first attempt to prepare the design of a gravity wall of rectangular
cross-section. State, in point form, your reasoning behind the choice of suitable soil
parameters for your design. Assume that the wall will be built in concrete of unit weight
3
24kN/m . Tan between the base of the wall and the rock can be assumed as 0.7.
4.
Site investigation reports often quote values of the allowable bearing pressure. What does
this mean, and what does it depend on?
5.
Explain how a site for a proposed building, having a basement, semi basement and four
floors of apartments can be investigated.
6.
Explain what you understand by the term ‘consolidation’ with reference to clay.
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7.
What does information about permeability of ground materials tell us about their
geotechnical behaviour?
8.
Explain how factors of safety are applied to geotechnical engineering situations in Eurocode
7.
9.
Engineering works related to the ground often have to be carried out with incomplete
information about the ground. How would you approach such a situation, keeping this lack
of complete information in mind?
10.
Explain how you would go about checking the stability of an excavation.
11.
What should you keep in mind when excavating in clay? What should you insist upon when
dealing with the contractor carrying out the works?
12.
The Upper Coralline limestone, the middle Globigerina Limestone and beach sands are all
found in the Maltese Islands. List the problems that you should be aware of if you happen to
need to excavate in each of these.
13.
Water flowing through carbonate sedimentary rocks (like the rocks in the Maltese Islands)
often dissolves the rock to create cavities. What would you do if the site that you have just
excavated contains such features?
14.
One common approach to site investigation is to drill boreholes to some depth. Do you
agree with such an approach?
15.
Pile foundations and raft foundations are both used when building on relatively soft ground.
In what situations would you consider using piles instead of a raft, and why?
16.
The triaxial apparatus contains a valve which drastically changes the type of test carried out
within the apparatus. Explain in what situations would you consider using a triaxial test, and
explain why you would choose to keep this particular valve open or closed.
Some useful information
Ka= (1-Sin ϕ’)/ (1+Sin ϕ’)
Kp= (1+Sin ϕ’)/ (1-Sin ϕ’)
σ3’ = σ1’Ka - 2c’√Ka
σ3 ’ = σ1’Kp + 2c’√Kp
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UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc (Hons.) IN BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR I
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: EVD1502
Unit Title: Environmental Design
of Interior Spaces
Date: Friday 6th September 2013
Time: 09:15 – 10:45
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS.
Questions in Section A carry 2 marks each. Questions in Section B carry 3 marks each.
Each question should be answered very briefly and generally in not more than 20 words.
Section A
1.
What are the three sources of heat gain into a building?
2.
Describe what happens when solar radiation strikes a transparent or translucent
element of the building. .
3.
Discuss the functions of ventilation in a dwelling during the colder parts of the year.
4.
Describe one way how decisions made in site planning and building orientation will
have impacts on the energy performance of the building.
5.
Describe the relationship between the absorptivity, the emissivity and the
reflectivity of a building element in relation to radiation of a particular wavelength..
6.
The globigerina limestone used commonly in local construction is a very absorbent
material. Why does this factor cause indoor temperatures to drop after the stone becomes
saturated with water following a storm?
7.
What are the two main aims of an electrical lighting installation within a building?
8.
What is meant by the CIE Standard Overcast Sky as used in the prediction of indoor
daylighting levels?
9.
Borrowed light can be an effective way of achieving reasonable levels of
daylighting within spaces which have no external walls where to place windows. Discuss.
10.
Why are side windows the best solution for admitting daylight into an interior?
11.
A mechanical ventilating system can have an effect on ambient indoor noise levels.
Mention one way how noise generated by this system can be controlled.
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12.
A school classroom has a floor area of 65 square metres with a floor-to-ceiling
height of 3 metres. Describe measures you would consider to have an acceptable
reverberation time within the classroom.
13.
Finish this sentence: The sound reduction index of a partition depends primarily on
_______________________________.
14.
What type of roof construction would you recommend for a building located within
the flight path of a major airport to avoid noise annoyance from aircraft?
15.
Mention two factors which affect road traffic noise.
16.
An environmental impact statement is being prepared for a proposed development.
Where would you consider it appropriate to carry out night time noise measurements.
17.
How does EN 140-7:1998 propose to measure the impact sound insulation of an
intermediate floor between two dwellings?
18.
Distinguish between a sound measured in decibels and one measured in A-weighted
decibel scale.
19.
Percentile levels are frequently used to measure fluctuating sound levels. Describe
one situation where it is appropriate to use percentile levels measurements.
20.
What is meant by the sound absorption coefficient of a material?
Section B
21.
Where sites are adjacent to busy roads they will require the use of intelligent zoning
design. Discuss.
22.
Describe two ways how vibrations from machinery is prevented from being
transmitted to other parts of the building where it can be perceived as noise.
23.
For masonry walls, the sound insulation performance will normally be such that the
windows and ventilators will dictate the overall sound insulation of the building envelope.
Why?
24.
By means of a simple sketch, show how a lightweight internal partition finished
with plasterboard may be constructed to achieve a sound insulation of not less that 55 dB.
25.
Finish this sentence: The audibility of speech is affected ______________________
_____________________________________.
26.
Buffer zones are frequently used between sound sensitive spaces in a building to
reduce the possibility of noise disturbance. Discuss.
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27.
The maintenance of a lighting installation requires the consideration of four factors.
Discuss.
28.
What are the three factors which need to be considered in the design of a successful
electric lighting installation?
29.
Describe the Window Orientation Factor as used in the prediction of the amount of
daylight in an interior.
30.
The manufacturer’s data for a luminaire to house an electric lamp generally always
includes the spacing to mounting height ratio. Why is this ratio important in the design of
an electric lighting installation?
31.
What is meant by heat bridges in the assessment of the thermal insulation of an
external wall and why is it necessary to avoid them?
32.
Discuss the effect of internal heat gains on the ambient temperatures within
interiors.
33.
Why does the surface area to volume ratio can be an important consideration in the
assessment of the thermal balance of a building?
34.
The design of windows can have an important effect on the thermal comfort of the
occupants of a building. Why?
35.
Why is the use of door lobbies recommended in the design of entrances to buildings
with a high public interface such as shops?
36.
Suggest ways how the temperature of the air around buildings can be reduced
before it enters the building.
37.
Condensation of water (formation of dew) is more likely to occur on a clear night
than when the sky is overcast. Why?
38.
Describe how ground cooling can be used to cool air before it enters a building.
39.
Kitchens and bathrooms require high levels of ventilation which are generally
impossible to provide by natural ventilation. Suggest the best ways to ventilate these spaces
during the cold seasons.
40.
Why are the effective reflectances of the ceiling cavity, walls and floor cavity
important in the illuminance level on the working plane from a lighting installation.
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UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (Hons) in BUILT ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
YEAR 2
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: EVD2501
Unit Title: Environmental Control Systems
Date: Tuesday 3rd September 2013
Time: 09.15 – 11.15
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER EACH SECTION ON A SEPARATE BOOKLET
ANSWER FIVE QUESTIONS FROM EACH SECTION
Section A – Answer five questions
1.
A football club wants to build dressing rooms next to a football pitch. There are
going to be two dressing rooms each for about 15 persons, a small officials dressing room
(maximum four persons) and a small kitchen. By means of a well-labelled diagram show
how the hot water system of this building may be designed. Hot water is heated in a
calorifier located within the building itself.
(10 marks)
2.
(a) An indirect system for cold water supply is to be used in a locality where low
temperatures below freezing point are experienced in the cold season. What precautions are
required in this case as compared to a similar installation locally?
(5 marks)
(b) Why should a cold water storage cistern be provided with a warning pipe and
where should this pipe be located?
(3 marks)
(c) How is the water level kept constant in a cold water storage cistern?
(2 marks)
3.
(a) How is hot water provided in a building where the provision of hot water is
required throughout the building at all times of the day to avoid long dead legs and wastage
of water and energy?
(4 marks)
(b) Describe the following components of a hot water supply system: thermostatic
valve, instantaneous water heater and open outlet water storage heater.
(6 marks)
4.
(a) Sanitary appliances have three basic requirements for successful performance.
Discuss.
(6 marks)
(b) Distinguish between a washdown closet and a siphonic closet and suggest where
the latter may be preferred.
(4 marks)
5.
What are the precautions which should be taken in the interests of safety in the
design of domestic bathrooms?
(10 marks)
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6.
(a) By means of a suitable well-labelled diagram show how one type of internal
drainage system may be carried out.
(6 marks)
(b) What is the function of the trap as used in the connection of the outlet of a
washbasin to the drainage installation?
(4 marks)
7.
Describe the meaning of the following terms as used in the design of a drainage
installation: yard gully, access pipe, inspection chamber, grease trap, soil stack vent.
(2 marks for each)
Section B – Answer five questions
8.
(a) Distinguish between convective and radiative heating.
(4 marks)
(b) List and describe the advantages and disadvantages of 3 types of de-centralised
heating systems.
(6 marks)
9.
(a) Distinguish between a centralised and a de-centralised HVAC system.
(2 marks)
(b) Differentiate between centralised and de-centralised systems on the basis on the
following criteria:
•
•
•
•
10.
Indoor air quality
Ease of installation
Usage time
Aesthetics and space requirement
(2 marks)
(2 marks)
(2 marks)
(2 marks)
(a) Using a sketch, show the main components of split-unit air conditioner system.
(4 marks)
(b) What does VRF mean?
(2 marks)
(c) List the four major sub-systems which make up a centralised air conditioner
system.
(4 marks)
11.
(a) List three functions of a fire detection and alarm system.
(3 marks)
(b) Distinguish between a wet and dry sprinkler.
(4 marks)
(c) Draw the general layout of a fire sprinkler system.
(3 marks)
12.
(a) List four specific situations where the use of stand-by generator would be
required.
(4 marks)
(b) Rooftop installations of stand-by generators are becoming more common. List 3
advantages and 3 disadvantages of using the roof for such installations.
(6 marks)
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13.
(a) Distinguish between Three phase and Single phase AC electrical supply. For
each type of electrical supply give specific examples of their use.
(4 marks)
(b) Define the term MCB.
(2 marks)
(c) Briefly describe how a Residual Current Device and electrical earthing work
together to prevent loss of live or damage to appliances.
(4 marks)
14.
(a) List the three main forms of transportation associated with buildings. (3 marks)
(b) Given the choice between a traction-roped lift and a hydraulic lift explain, what
would your lift of choice be for the following two buildings:
(i) 3 storey building with space available on top of the lift shaft
(ii) 3 storey building with no space available on top of the lift shaft.
(3 marks)
(c) Draw a schematic of traction-roped lift, including lift shaft and machine room.
(4 marks)
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UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Sc. (HONS.) BEN
YEAR I
SEPTEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: SPI1711
Unit Title: Landscape & Human Impact
Date: Monday 9th September 2013
Time: 09:15 – 10:45
Answer TWO questions, one question from Section A and one question from Section B.
Each question carries 50 marks.
Section A (answer either Question 1 or Question 2)
(1) Food chains cannot support a large number of trophic levels. Discuss.
(2) Effective conservation of a species requires knowledge of its ecological niche
and its interspecific interactions. Discuss.
Section B (answer either Question 3 or Question 4)
(3) Nature can affect human psychology in a variety of different ways, both positive
and negative. Give examples of such effects, also explaining their relevance to
the planning/design sector.
(4) Wildlife corridors or conduits perform important ecological functions. Why is
connectivity crucial to meta-populations within a landscape matrix?
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