Course:
AEC 121
Title:
Construction Material/Systems
Long Title:
Construction Materials and Systems
Course
Description:
Examines building materials and construction techniques. Topics
include a study of soils, concrete, brick, masonry, steel, timber, and
plastics and a study of types of building structural systems and
components. Principles of interpreting light commercial construction
drawings (blueprints) for structural and trade information are also
introduced.
Min Credit:
3
STANDARD COMPETENCIES:
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.
Interpret construction drawings.
Investigate site work.
Identify foundations, spread and stepped footings; pier and pile foundations; solid, cavity
and veneer masonry construction.
Describe building framing techniques.
Identify, describe, distinguish between and interpret ratings of thermal insulation.
Interpret and apply results of laboratory tests related to construction materials.
Identify the divisions of the Construction Specification Institute.
Identify, describe and distinguish between types of conveying systems.
Identify, name components, and describe basic operation of plumbing materials.
Identify components and equipment, and describe basic operation and function of heating
ventilating and air conditioning system and materials.
Identify and distinguish between building materials and components properties.
Categorize and name components, and describe basic operation and function of building
lighting systems and equipment, including lamp type, efficacy and rendering
effectiveness, fixture types, and control (switching) methods.
Examine and name components of building electrical systems, including building system
voltages and distribution methods, entrance and distribution equipment, conductors,
outlets/receptacles, overcurrent protection and occupant safety devices (GFCI, AFCI,
etc.).
TOPICAL OUTLINE:
I.
Interpretation of Construction Drawings.
A.
Describe multiview (orthographic) projections.
i. Examine details, schedule, site plan, foundation plan, floor plan,
elevations.
1. Review symbology.
B.
Site work: Soils and Foundations.
i. Describe soil types.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
1. Examine soil testing techniques.
Concrete Materials and Reinforced Concrete and different foundations.
A.
Distinguish between precast and cast in place concrete.
i. Interpret and apply designations of foundation soils, concretes and
masonry units.
Varies types of building frame construction.
A.
Identify platform, balloon, heavy timber and light metal framing.
B.
Examine thermal insulation, exterior claddings, glass, roof coverings, decking
materials, flashings, penetrations, drainage systems, wall, floor and ceiling
finishes, and other related components.
Thermal properties, acoustical properties and fire issues
A.
Explore options for fire mitigation.
i. Available materials for sound suppression.
1. Analyze heat transfer.
Interpretation of Laboratory tests
A.
Review and analyze test results of soil, concrete, masonry, steel, and wood.
CSI divisions
A.
Sequencing of the construction project.
i. Examine operations that fall under the divisions.
Conveying systems
A.
Examine different freight systems.
i. Identify the various systems that transport people.
Plumbing system
A.
Identify drain waste and vent system.
B.
Examine potable water system.
C.
Explore fire suppression systems.
Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
A.
Examine conventional systems. (forced air, radiant floor and boiler systems).
i. Introduce optional systems. (geothermal and solar).
Building Materials and their properties.
A.
Examine Steel and Nonferrous Metals.
i. Explore interior and exterior finishes.
ii. Identify and describe wood and plastics used in construction.